Least Concern Birds

African Fish Eagle

Haliaeetus vocifer

African Fish Eagle: Majestic fish-eating bird near lakes and rivers.

Scientific name	Haliaeetus vocifer
Swahili name	Mwewe wa Samaki
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae
Size	Male: 3.0-3.6 kg; Female: 3.2-4.5 kg; Wingspan about 2.0 meters

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How to identify

Small body, length about 2.5-3.5 cm; back brown to grayish-brown, belly light-colored; large prominent eyes; slender limbs with suction cup-like structures on toes; smooth skin

Habitat

Freshwater lakes, rivers, swamps, and savannas and forest edges near water bodies

Diet

Carnivorous, mainly feeds on fish, also preys on water birds and small mammals

When it is active

Diurnal, active frequently during the day

Where it lives

Widely distributed in sub-Saharan Africa, especially common in East Africa regions such as Kenya and Tanzania (including Maasai Mara)

How to spot it

Observe from tall trees or utility poles near water bodies; best photographed in soft light during early morning or late afternoon

Photography tips

Use a telephoto lens to capture moments of flight or fishing; keep the background simple to highlight the subject; use natural light to enhance feather details