Creatures - In Hamburg, three pairs of white-tailed eagles have resided for a decade.
Flying through the skies, a sea eagle is a breathtaking sight. With wingspan almost reaching 2.5 meters, this majestic bird of prey is indeed captivating. Luckily, you can witness such wonders in Hamburg, Germany. "At present, there are three sea eagle pairs inhabiting the city," revealed a spokesperson for the Hamburg Environmental Authority to a German news agency. Maintaining confidentiality, they declined to disclose the location of these raptors' nests. "Such sites are kept secret to safeguard the well-being of the birds."
These sea eagles typically lay one to two eggs each season. Unfortunately, with one pair, constant human interference has led to the peril of their hatchlings. "It's crucial to safeguard their breeding grounds," stresses the spokesperson.
Sea eagles in Germany were previously on the brink of extinction. However, their numbers have risen thanks to the EU's Birds Directive, which was incorporated into the German Nature Conservation Act. Consequently, sea eagles are thriving in their traditional regions. These areas encompass lakes, coasts, and river systems. "The presence of sea eagles in Hamburg is reflective of the overall revival of the sea eagle population and a tremendous triumph for conservation efforts, which we must maintain for continued success."
The sea eagle's population in Hamburg has remained stable for over a decade. "This signifies that suitable habitats are occupied by eagles, providing them with ample food and sustenance of significant ecological importance," added the spokesperson.
Sea eagles measure around 90 centimeters in length and boast a 2.5-meter wingspan. Also known as white-tailed eagles, they're one of the biggest European birds of prey. Larger than them are only vultures. Requiring vast water bodies, sea eagles find their homes near coasts and islands. Additionally, they often reside by large, fish-rich rivers and lakes. "Sea eagles have a penchant for consuming large fish, but they also feed on birds, rodents, and foxes."
For more facts on sea eagles, check out NABU's website: https://www.nabu.de/natur/vogelwelt/vogelarten/seeadler/
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The Elbe River, flowing through Hamburg, provides ample opportunity for white-tailed eagles to hunt for their preferred food, such as large fish. Despite living in the city, these birds of prey still connect with the surrounding nature. The German Press Agency reported that Hamburg is home to three pairs of white-tailed eagles, also known as sea eagles, a testament to the conservation efforts for these animals in Germany.
