The African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) is a large species that is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa wherever large bodies of open water with an abundant food supply occur. The African Fish Eagle is the national bird of Namibia and is known around the world as a symbol of strength.
This Stunning Eagle is a large bird with a milk-white head and tail, dark eyes, yellow cere and a chocolate brown back. The female is larger than the male and their feet have rough soles and are equipped with powerful talons to enable them to grasp slippery aquatic prey. The Eagle feeds mainly on fish, which it swoops down upon from a perch in a tree, snatching the prey from the water with its large, clawed talons. The eagle then flies back to its perch to eat its catch.
These magnificent birds build their nests in large trees form mostly sticks and other pieces of wood. The African Fish Eagle are believed to mate for life. They breed during the dry season and the females lays one to three eggs which are mostly white with a few reddish speckles. Those that survive their first year have a life expectancy of 12 to 24 years.
The African Fish Eagle has a distinctive cry which, for many, is the true sound and essence of Africa. The call, shriller when uttered by the males, is a weee-ah, hyo-hyo or a heee-ah, heee-ah. Hearing this iconic sound and seeing a Large African Fish Eagle snatch a fish from a large body of open water is an exclusive experience one can only experience in Africa.
Otjiwa Nature Reserve is a proud home of this majestic bird of prey. Guest can have a once in a lifetime experience at Otjiwa Lodge and watch an orange sunset while hearing the iconic cry of the African Fish Eagle. The best way to experience the true beauty of Nature.
