White-bellied Sea Eagle
About the White-bellied Sea Eagle in Singapore
Last updated 29 May 2026
The White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) is one of Singapore’s largest and most impressive birds of prey. These majestic raptors are easy to spot soaring high above reservoirs, coastlines, and even the city’s waterways.
Identifying features
Check out some of the identifying features of the White-bellied Sea Eagle below.
The adult White-bellied Sea Eagle is an unmistakable giant of the sky, easily identified by the brilliant, pure white feathers covering its head, neck, and underparts, which contrast sharply with its dark slate-grey back and upper wings. When you spot them soaring high above, look for their distinct flight silhouette. They hold their massive, broad wings slightly upwards in a distinct "V" shape as they glide on the thermal currents. The juveniles look completely different, sporting a mottled brown plumage that takes several years to transition into the crisp white and grey of an adult.
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Habitat and ecology
White-bellied Sea Eagles love to live near water. You’ll find them around reservoirs, rivers, and along the coast. They build huge stick nests in tall trees and hunt for fish, crabs, and even small animals.
These eagles are known for constructing massive nests, often reusing and adding to them year after year, resulting in structures that can become several metres wide. Both parents participate in building the nest and raising their young, with the female usually laying one to three eggs per breeding season. The chicks are cared for in the nest until they are ready to fledge, and the nest remains an important home base for the eagle family.
Did you know?
These eagles have a loud, high-pitched call that you can sometimes hear before you spot them in the sky!
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Learn more about the White-bellied Sea Eagle!
Curious about the White-bellied Sea Eagle? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
