Also known as: Pacific Eagle, White-shouldered Eagle, Kamchatkan Sea Eagle, Steller's Fish Eagle
The Steller's Sea Eagle is a very large bird of prey found in coastal parts of northeastern Asia. It is among the heaviest eagle species in the world, along with the Harpy Eagle and the Philippine Eagle. As is common with birds of prey, female Steller's Sea Eagles weigh more than males. A large female may be as heavy as almost 21 lbs!
Native to the coastal northeastern Asian regions, particularly Russia and Japan, Steller's Sea Eagles are primarily found near rivers and coastal areas where they feed mainly on fish and water birds. During the harsh winters, they may migrate to the southern parts of Korea and Japan in search of open waters.
These eagles prefer solitary or paired life except during migration or in particularly abundant feeding areas. They are known for their strong territorial instincts, especially around their nesting sites which are typically located in tall trees or on cliff edges.
Conservation concerns for Steller's Sea Eagles include habitat degradation and the impacts of overfishing and water pollution on their food sources. Efforts to protect their habitats are crucial for ensuring their survival, as their presence is a key indicator of the health of their ecosystem.
What Vagrancy Means In Bird Terms
In the birding world, the term "vagrant" refers to a bird that has strayed far outside its usual range or migratory path. These wayward travelers often end up in unexpected places due to various factors such as weather events, navigational errors, or a... Read more »
Our special 10th anniversary 2016 Birdorable Bonanza continues today with the third bird in the series: the Steller's Sea Eagle, a very large raptor that lives in coastal habitats in northeast Asia. These powerful, heavy birds are among the... Read more »