Haliaeetus leucoryphus
The Pallas's Fish Eagle, also known as Pallas's Sea Eagle, is a magnificent and distinctively patterned raptor of Central and South Asia. Adults are easily identified by their contrasting white face, neck, and belly against dark brown upperparts and black flight feathers, further highlighted by a broad white band across the underwing primaries in flight. Their tail is mostly dark, but features a broad white band at the base, especially prominent in younger birds. These large eagles measure 72...
Found primarily near large freshwater bodies such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, often in lowlands, but can extend to high mountain valleys. Requires tall trees for nesting and perching close to water.
Feeds predominantly on fish, captured by diving into the water. Also consumes water birds, small mammals, and carrion as an opportunistic feeder.
Diurnal by nature, Pallas's Fish Eagles spend their days perched watchfully over water, scanning for prey, and often roost communally in large trees. They are expert piscivores, diving feet-first to snatch fish from the water's surface, but are also opportunistic, preying on waterfowl, carrion, a...
The geographic distribution of the Pallas's Fish Eagle is fragmented across Central and South Asia. Its breeding range extends from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan through Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, into parts of China (Xinjiang, Tibet), Mongolia, and across the Indian subcontinent (India, Nepal, Bhuta...
Endangered
- Despite its common name 'sea eagle,' Pallas's Fish Eagle primarily inhabits freshwater environments, often far inland. - Its scientific name, *leucoryphus*, directly translates to 'white-crowned,' referring to its distinctive pale head. - These eagles are known for their impressive kleptoparasi...