African Fish Eagle Facts, Photos, Size, and Diet By Experts
Overview of the African Fish Eagle
African Fish Eagle Facts, Photos, Size, and Diet By Experts. Visit Africa and Book an Affordable Luxury Birding Tour Itinerary to spot the Africa Fish Eagle.
- Scientific Name: Haliaeetus vocifer
- Family: Accipitridae
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
- Range: Found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, near lakes, rivers, and coasts.
The African Fish Eagle is Africa’s most iconic raptor, known for its piercing cry that resonates over water bodies. Often called the “Voice of Africa,” it symbolizes wilderness and freedom.
Expert Tip for Photography
- Gear: A telephoto lens (300mm or more) is ideal for capturing close-up shots.
- Position: Find a perch near water; fish eagles often return to the same spot.
- Timing: Capture them mid-flight or during their dramatic fishing dive for spectacular shots.
Would you like to see sample itineraries to explore their habitats or need any photos to visualize these majestic birds?
Key Facts
- Appearance:
- Distinct white head and chest, contrasting sharply with its dark brown body.
- Yellow facial skin and black hooked beak.
- Strong talons adapted for catching slippery prey.
- Habitat:
- Prefers freshwater environments like lakes, rivers, and wetlands.
- Often seen perched on trees or rocks overlooking water.
- Behavior:
- Solitary or found in breeding pairs.
- Territorial and will defend their fishing grounds against other birds.
Size and Wingspan
- Length: 63–75 cm (24.8–29.5 inches).
- Wingspan: 2 meters (6.6 feet).
- Weight:
- Males: 2–2.5 kg (4.4–5.5 lbs).
- Females (larger): 3–3.5 kg (6.6–7.7 lbs).
The African Fish Eagle is a medium-to-large bird of prey, with females significantly larger than males.
Diet
- Primary Diet: Fish (up to 90% of its diet).
- Hunts by swooping down from perches or while in flight.
- Uses sharp talons to grasp fish, typically under 2 kg (4.4 lbs).
- Secondary Prey:
- Birds (e.g., waterfowl).
- Small mammals.
- Carrion (especially in areas with fewer fish).
- Hunting Technique:
- Known for its dramatic fishing technique, it dives toward the water with its talons extended and snatches fish near the surface.
- Rarely dives into the water, avoiding full submersion.
Breeding and Habitant
- Breeding Season: Varies by region but often during the dry season when fish are concentrated.
- Nests: Large stick platforms built in tall trees or cliffs overlooking water.
- Clutch Size: 1–3 eggs, incubated by the female for about 42–45 days.
Fun Facts
- National Symbol: The African Fish Eagle is the national bird of Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
- Distinctive Call: Its haunting cry is often described as “the sound of Africa.”
- Adaptation: The rough, spiny pads on its feet help grip slippery fish.
Where to Spot the African Fish Eagle
- Top Locations:
- Lake Victoria (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania).
- Okavango Delta (Botswana).
- Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe/Zambia).
- Kazinga Channel (Uganda).
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon near water bodies.
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