White-bellied Sea-Eagle vs Grey-headed Fish-Eagle

In short

The White-bellied Sea-Eagle and Grey-headed Fish-Eagle are both large, fish-eating raptors, but they can be distinguished by head color and tail patterns. The White-bellied Sea-Eagle has a distinctive white head and underparts, while the Grey-headed Fish-Eagle features a grey head and a white tail with a broad black terminal band.

Identification tips

1. Head color: Look for the white head of the White-bellied Sea-Eagle versus the grey head of the Grey-headed Fish-Eagle. 2. Tail pattern: Check for the White-bellied Sea-Eagle's uniformly white tail compared to the Grey-headed Fish-Eagle's white tail with a black band. 3. Habitat: Consider the location; coastal areas suggest White-bellied Sea-Eagle, while inland waters and forests suggest Grey-headed Fish-Eagle. 4. Calls: Listen for the honking of the Sea-Eagle compared to the whistling of the Fish-Eagle.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the White-bellied Sea-Eagle is generally more robust with a slightly longer wingspan.

Plumage

The White-bellied Sea-Eagle has a white head, breast, and belly with dark grey wings and back. In contrast, the Grey-headed Fish-Eagle has a grey head, neck, and upper breast, with a dark brown body and a white tail with a black terminal band.

Behaviour

Both species are often seen soaring over water bodies. The White-bellied Sea-Eagle is more likely to be seen perched prominently near coastal areas, while the Grey-headed Fish-Eagle is often found near inland water bodies.

Habitat

The White-bellied Sea-Eagle is commonly found along coasts, islands, and large inland water bodies. The Grey-headed Fish-Eagle prefers freshwater habitats such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, often in forested areas.

Voice

The White-bellied Sea-Eagle has a loud, goose-like honking call. The Grey-headed Fish-Eagle's call is a series of high-pitched whistles, which can be quite different from the Sea-Eagle's honking.