Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Steller's sea eagle
Scientific name: Haliaeetus pelagicus

IUCN Status: Endangered
Family: ACCIPITRIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 100 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.01-31.03
Gestation: N/A
Births: 01.04-31.07
Habitat:
Coastal zones, rivers, and estuaries in Japan, Russia, and Korea, often in cold and marine environments
Description:
The Steller's Sea Eagle is a large raptor primarily found along the coasts of Northeast Asia, particularly in Russia and Japan. It measures about 85 to 105 cm in length, with a wingspan of 2.2 to 2.5 meters, and weighs between 4 and 9 kg, making it one of the largest eagles in the world. Its plumage is primarily dark brown with a white head and pale yellow beak. The Steller's Sea Eagle is an excellent fisherman, primarily feeding on fish, but it also hunts seabirds and marine mammals. It prefers coastal areas and islands where it can find its food and is often seen flying over the seas or resting on rocks or trees. While its population remains relatively stable, this species is vulnerable to habitat loss due to human activity, climate change, and ocean pollution.
Recommended lens:
>=400 mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Steller's Sea Eagle, use a telephoto lens to capture this majestic raptor in flight or when perched on trees or rocks. Try to photograph early in the morning or at sunset for optimal lighting conditions. Be patient and discreet, as these sea eagles can be very sensitive to human presence.
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