The Grey Sea Eagle, scientifically known as Haliaeetus albicilla, is a large and majestic bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae. Also commonly referred to as the White-tailed Eagle, it is primarily found in the northern regions of Europe and Asia.
The Grey Sea Eagle possesses distinctive physical characteristics that make it easily identifiable. It has a robust body, with broad wings measuring up to 245 centimeters in span, making it one of the largest birds of prey in the world. The adult eagle features a white-feathered head and neck, in contrast to its dark grey-brown body and wings. As suggested by its name, the Grey Sea Eagle's most remarkable feature is its long, wedge-shaped tail with a conspicuous white band.
This magnificent bird inhabits coastal areas and inland waters, with a preference for regions near large bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and estuaries. It feeds predominantly on fish, but it is also known to consume small mammals, birds, and carrion. The eagle usually hunts by soaring high in the sky before plunging into the water to catch its prey. It has keen vision and acute senses that facilitate successful hunting.
With a lifespan of around 25 to 30 years, the Grey Sea Eagle is a highly territorial bird. It builds massive nests, often reusing them year after year, and sometimes reaching sizes up to two meters in diameter. Males and females engage in elaborate courtship displays in the spring, performing aerial acrobatics and vocalizations to attract mates. The magnificent Grey Sea Eagle symbolizes power, grace, and beauty within the avian kingdom.
