Lesser fish eagle

The lesser fish eagle, native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, particularly the Himalayan foothills, is an intriguing bird. There is ongoing debate among ornithologists regarding its classification, whether it belongs to the genus Ichthyophaga or Haliaeetus. These birds are exceptional fish hunters, equipped with specialized feet adapted to grip slippery prey, and they are divided into two subspecies based on their geographical regions.

These medium-sized eagles are characterized by their gray-brown plumage, broad wings, and robust legs. Their diet mainly comprises fish, which they catch by swooping down and seizing them from the water with their curved talons. They favor habitats such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands and are frequently observed along hill streams and fast-moving waters at various altitudes.

The lesser fish eagle's range extends from India to Southeast Asia, encompassing countries such as Nepal, China, and Indonesia. Unfortunately, they face several threats, including habitat loss, human disturbances, hunting, and nest theft, leading to a decline in their population. Consequently, BirdLife International has classified them as Near Threatened.

The breeding season for these eagles typically runs from March to August in northern India and Nepal. They usually lay 2-4 eggs in nests constructed from sticks and green leaves. However, various human activities present significant challenges to their survival, raising serious conservation concerns.