The Madagascar fish eagle or Madagascar sea-eagle, is a large bird of prey in the family Accipitridae which also includes many other diurnal raptors such as kites, buzzards and harriers. It is endemic to the coastal strip in the northwest of Madagascar. It is about 63 cm (25 in) long and has a pale brown head, dark brown body and white tail. The Madagascar fish eagle has been suffering from a declining population and is threatened by habitat destruction and persecution, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated its conservation status as being "critically endangered".
Region
Western and northwestern Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs along the northwest coastal strip, especially around mangrove-lined estuaries, coastal lagoons, and large inland lakes and rivers. Prefers shores with large emergent trees for nesting and perching. Territories are typically centered on productive fishing areas such as tidal creeks, bays, and river mouths. Birds may range short distances along the shoreline but remain tied to waterside habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 300 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Among the world’s rarest raptors, the Madagascar fish eagle depends on intact mangroves and large riparian trees for nesting. It preys mainly on fish but will also take crabs, waterbirds, and carrion, and sometimes steals food from other birds. Habitat loss, overfishing, and persecution have driven severe declines. Conservation actions include nest protection, habitat management, and community-based fisheries agreements.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with powerful wingbeats and broad wings
Social Behavior
Typically found as solitary birds or in bonded pairs that defend linear stretches of shoreline. Nests are large stick platforms placed high in mangroves or tall riverside trees; pairs may reuse or add to the same nest for years. Clutch is usually one to two eggs, with extended parental care and slow fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include loud yelping and wailing calls reminiscent of the African fish eagle but less ringing. Pairs often duet at dawn and around territories, with carrying calls used for contact and defense.
Plumage
Pale brown head and neck contrasting with a dark chocolate-brown body and a clean white tail; juveniles are duller with mottling.
Diet
Primarily takes fish captured near the water surface, snatched with the feet during low, fast passes. Also consumes crabs and other crustaceans, waterbirds, small reptiles, and carrion, and may pirate prey from herons or other raptors. Feeding is opportunistic and closely linked to tidal cycles and fish availability.
Preferred Environment
Hunts along mangrove channels, estuaries, lagoons, and lake margins, using prominent perches to watch for prey. Will patrol shorelines and shallow flats where fish are concentrated, including near river mouths and tidal creeks.
