Grey-headed Fish Eagle
About the Grey-headed Fish Eagle in Singapore
Last updated 29 May 2026
The Grey-headed Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus ichthyaetus) is a large, powerful raptor native to Singapore. While less common than the White-bellied Sea Eagle, these residents are regularly spotted around our larger forested reservoirs, such as MacRitchie Reservoir and Kranji Reservoir.
Identifying features
Check out some identifying features of the Grey-headed Fish Eagle!
The Grey-headed Fish Eagle is easily recognized by its uniform, pale ashy-grey head and neck, which strongly contrasts with its rich, dark brown back and chest. As it flies, look out for its white belly and legs, but most crucially, check its tail. It features a very broad, distinct black band right at the tip!
Interested to learn more about how to identify Garden Birds? Check out our simple guide on identifying Garden Birds!
Habitat and ecology
As their name suggests, they are specialist fish hunters. They prefer hunting in calmer, inland freshwater bodies rather than the open, choppy ocean, often sitting silently for hours on a shaded branch overhanging the water before striking.
Frequently asked questions
Q: How do I tell the difference between the Grey-headed Fish Eagle and the White-bellied Sea Eagle?
These two large raptors are often seen hunting around the same reservoirs, but they have a few stark differences! The adult Grey-headed Fish Eagle has a pale grey head, a brown chest, and a white tail with a very broad black band at the tip. In contrast, the adult White-bellied Sea Eagle is noticeably larger and features a completely bright white head, chest, and belly, paired with dark grey wings and a tail that has a black base with a white tip. Even as younger, brownish sub-adults, the Grey-headed Fish Eagle gives itself away with its stark white belly and vent area!
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Enjoy birdwatching, or interested to learn more about the ones you see in our parks and gardens? Join us for the Garden Bird Watch to collect valuable data about garden birds, which contributes to their conservation.
Learn more about the Grey-headed Fish Eagle!
Curious about the Grey-headed Fish Eagle? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
