Often seen soaring above, the White-bellied Sea Eagle is a striking coastal bird commonly seen singly or in pairs.

With its white head, rump and underparts against dark or slate-grey back, the eagle’s black flight feathers on its wings are easily seen when the bird is viewed from below.

The White-bellied Sea Eagle is the second largest raptor (bird of prey) found in Australia, and likes to find a tall tree to build their nest, which is made from sticks and branches, plus seaweed and grass.

They will often choose to nest where there is a tall dead tree or high branch with good visibility that can be used as a perch to survey the surrounding area, which is generally a low-lying locale near water with some forest cover.

While hunting over water on sunny days, the eagle will masterfully fly directly into the sun or at right angles to it, which avoids casting shadows over the water and alerting potential prey.

Interesting fact

What’s that sound? The White-bellied Sea Eagle’s call is a loud, goose-like honking noise.