Wildlife

White-bellied Sea Eagle Welfare: Coastal Habitat in Australia

The white-bellied sea eagle is a dominant coastal raptor in Australia whose welfare depends on undisturbed nesting sites and clean waterways free from fishing gear entanglement.

Key Facts

White-bellied sea eagles are one of Australia's largest raptors with a wingspan up to 2.2 metres
They nest in large stick nests on tall trees, cliff faces and occasionally power pylons near water
Their diet includes fish, sea snakes, turtles and waterbirds taken from coastal and estuarine habitats
Nest fidelity is high, with pairs returning to the same nest site for decades

Welfare Considerations

Primary welfare threats include nest disturbance from development near breeding sites, entanglement in fishing lines and nets causing wing injuries, secondary poisoning from eating fish or prey contaminated with pesticides, and deliberate persecution. Coastal development is reducing availability of suitable tall trees near water for nest sites.

What You Can Do

Report disturbance near sea eagle nests to state wildlife authorities
Retrieve and properly dispose of all fishing line and tackle
Support coastal vegetation retention policies that protect nest trees
Advocate for buffer zones around active nest sites during breeding season