Species Profile
Steller's Sea-eagle
Haliaeetus pelagicus
Quick Facts
Conservation
VUVulnerableLifespan
20 years
Length
85–105 cm
Weight
4900–9000 g
Wingspan
195–250 cm
Migration
Partial migrant
Also known as: Steller's Sea Eagle, Pacific Sea Eagle
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Appearance
The Steller's Sea Eagle is one of the largest eagles in the world. Its distinctive dark brown body sharply contrasts with white shoulders, tail, and thighs. The eagle's massive yellow beak is a standout feature, complemented by powerful yellow talons. The nostrils are also large and prominent.
Juveniles have a darker overall plumage, with mottled white on the wings and tail. Adults develop their full white markings by about five years of age, with no significant plumage differences between males and females. However, females are much larger.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- Black
- Beak
- Yellow
- Legs
- Yellow
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Steller's Sea-eagles inhabit coastal areas, large rivers, and lakes in northeastern Asia, primarily in Russia's Far East, including Kamchatka and the Sea of Okhotsk coast. Their range extends to northern Japan, particularly Hokkaido, during winter months.
Some individuals may wander to Korea, northeastern China, and even Alaska, though such occurrences are rare. They prefer areas with abundant fish populations and suitable nesting trees near water bodies.
Distribution
Diet
Fish form the bulk of the Steller's Sea-eagle's diet, particularly salmon and trout. They also prey on seabirds and small mammals and occasionally scavenge on carrion. Sometimes, they'll even steal from other birds.
These eagles use their powerful talons to snatch fish from the water's surface or shallow depths.
Behaviour
Steller's Sea-eagles are often solitary but may gather in small groups at abundant food sources. They soar effortlessly on thermals and updrafts, using their keen eyesight to spot prey.
During winter, these eagles can be seen perching on sea ice or coastal trees, patiently waiting for fishing opportunities.
Calls & Sounds
Steller's Sea-eagles are generally quiet but can produce a variety of vocalisations. Their call is a deep, barking 'kra-kra-kra' or 'kyow-kyow-kyow', often heard during territorial disputes or when pairs communicate. This call is similar to a large gulls.
Juveniles may emit high-pitched begging calls when soliciting food from parents.
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding season for Steller's Sea-eagles typically begins in late March or early April. Pairs are monogamous and often return to the same nesting site year after year.
Nests are massive structures made of sticks and lined with softer materials. They are built in large trees or on coastal cliffs. Females lay 1-3 eggs, which are white with a bluish tinge.
Incubation lasts about 39-45 days, shared by both parents. Chicks fledge after 10-11 weeks but may remain dependent on their parents for several months.
Conservation
Steller's Sea-eagles face threats from habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Logging in their breeding areas and coastal development impact nesting sites.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting key habitats and reducing human disturbances in their range.
Elevation
Sea level to 100 meters
Additional Details
- Predators:
- Adult Steller's Sea-eagles have few natural predators due to their size. However, eggs and chicks may be vulnerable to other large raptors, corvids, and climbing mammals.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for them along coastlines and near large rivers in northeastern Asia
- Scan for their distinctive white tail and shoulders against dark plumage
- Visit known wintering grounds in Hokkaido, Japan, for the best viewing opportunities
- Observe them during early morning or late afternoon when they're most active
Did You Know?
- Steller's Sea-eagles have the largest average wingspan of any eagle species.
- Their scientific name 'pelagicus' means 'of the sea', reflecting their coastal habitat preference.
- A Steller's Sea-eagle can lift prey weighing up to 6 kg (13 lbs) from the water's surface.
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