Lesser Fish-Eagle Bird Details
Icthyophaga humilis
Lesser Fish-Eagle, Lesser Fish Eagle, Indian Fish Eagle;
Chhota Machhli Giddh
Cuvier, 1817
Accipitriformes (HAWKS, EAGLES and KITES)
Accipitridae
Icthyophaga
Appearance :
The Lesser Fish-Eagle is medium-sized with a distinctive appearance featuring a brown body, a pale head, and a yellow beak. Its wings are broad, and it has a long tail, often displaying a darker coloration.
Behaviour :
This bird is known for its solitary or pairs behavior. It is an excellent fisherman, often seen gliding over water bodies before diving to catch prey. It has a characteristic loud call.
Habitat :
The Lesser Fish-Eagle typically inhabits freshwater lakes, rivers, and wetlands, favoring areas with abundant fish and minimal disturbance.
Diet :
Primarily piscivorous, its diet consists mainly of fish, but it may also eat amphibians and small reptiles.
Conservation Status :
Near Threatened
Distribution :
This species is primarily found in parts of South and Southeast Asia, including the Indian subcontinent and regions extending to Southeast Asia.
Population Size :
The population of the lesser fish-eagle (Icthyophaga humilis) is estimated to be between 10,000 and 50,000 mature individuals.
Life Span :
In the wild, the Lesser Fish-Eagle can live up to 15 years or more
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: Medium-sized raptor with a streamlined body, adapted for hunting fish.
- Tarsus Length: Approximately 8-10 cm.
Head And Bill :
- Head: Distinctive pale head with a slight crest, featuring yellowish eyes.
- Bill: Strong and hooked, ideal for catching fish.
- Bill Length: About 5-6 cm.
Length :
Approximately 55-65 cm.
Neck :
Relatively short and sturdy, supporting the head for hunting.
Size :
Medium; comparable to other fish-eagles but smaller than the larger species in its family.
Tail Details :
- Tail: Long and square-shaped, aiding in maneuverability during flight.
- Tail Length: About 20-25 cm.
- Feathers: Dark brown body plumage, with lighter head and underparts, featuring a mottled pattern.
Weight :
Typically ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 kg.
Wing :
Broad and long, adapted for gliding and soaring over water bodies.
Wing Span :
Approximately 145-165 cm.
Facial Feature :
The Lesser Fish-Eagle has a striking pale face with a contrasting dark crown.
Nest Details :
- Nest: Usually built in trees near water bodies, often in large branches.
- Nest Made Up Of: Twigs, sticks, and various vegetation, often lined with softer materials.
Breeding Season :
Typically occurs from December to April.
Nesting Season :
Varies by region but generally aligns with the dry season when water levels are stable.
Egg Color :
Pale bluish or white.
Egg Length :
Approximately 5.5-6.5 cm.
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: About 4-5 cm.
- Egg Weight: Around 50-70 grams.
Clutch Size :
Generally consists of 2-3 eggs.
No. of Broods :
Usually one brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
Lasts about 30-35 days.
Nestling Period :
Young are dependent for about 50-60 days before fledging.
Vocalization :
Produces a series of loud, harsh calls that can be heard from a distance.
Sex Demorphism :
Males and females are similar in appearance, but females are typically larger.
Migration Details :
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