Setswana name: Kgoadira Scientific name: Haliaeetus vocifer Size: Approximately 63-73 cm

Fish Eagle

Description

The African Fish Eagle is a bird commonly found in Botswana; it is a fairly large eagle which  has a distinctive black, brown, and white plumage.

Voice

The African Fish Eagle has two distinct calls. In flight or perched, the sound is something like the American Bald Eagle. When near the nest its call is more of a 'quock' sound - the female is a little shriller and less mellow than the male. So well known and clear is the call of this bird that it is often known as 'the voice of Africa'.

The African Fish Eagle is usually seen in pairs inside and outside the breeding season, even sharing kills made by either of them. They spend more time perched than flying, and usually settle for the day by 10am, having made their kill, although they will kill at any time of the day.

Behaviour and Habitant

Fish Eagle can prey on dead or dying fish, but is well equipped to catch fish which are swimming near the surface of the waters. Fish Eagle can be spotted in pairs in at large rivers, lakes, dams and pans. They are very commonly found throughout the Chobe and Okavango regions and will appear on larger pans during periods of heavy rainfall.