Icthyophaga

These eagles are renowned for their specialized hunting skills and adaptations that enable them to thrive in aquatic environments across parts of Asia and Africa. Ichthyophaga eagles are medium to large-sized birds with robust bodies and large wings adapted for soaring. The Grey-headed Fish Eagle is particularly striking, with a pale grey head contrasting against its dark brown body and intense yellow eyes that give it a piercing gaze. On the other hand, the Lesser Fish Eagle is slightly smaller, with a more uniform brown coloring and a less pronounced grey head. Both species have sharp, curved beaks and strong talons, ideal for catching and holding slippery fish.

These eagles are typically found in forested regions near large bodies of freshwater — rivers, lakes, and swamps. The Grey-headed Fish Eagle ranges from India and Sri Lanka, stretching all the way to Southeast Asia, including parts of Indonesia and the Philippines. The Lesser Fish Eagle’s distribution is slightly more limited, primarily found in the Himalayan region, extending through northern India to Southeast Asia. They possess incredible patience and precision, often perching quietly for long periods over water before swooping down to snatch fish with their talons. Their excellent eyesight enables them to spot fish from great heights, and their flight is both swift and agile, allowing for effective hunting.