Image via Macaulay Library
Gray-headed Fish-Eagle
- Scientific name
- Icthyophaga ichthyaetus
- Family
- Accipitridae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Aquatic river
- Wing shape
- Broad
- Tail shape
- Wedge shaped
Where it came from
The Gray-headed Fish-Eagle, scientifically classified as Icthyophaga ichthyaetus, is a raptor species native to South and Southeast Asia. These birds evolved to thrive near freshwater habitats, such as large rivers and lakes, where they occupy a niche as specialized piscivores. Their physical characteristics, notably their broad wings and distinct wedge-shaped tail, have been shaped by millions of years of evolutionary pressure to facilitate efficient, low-altitude hunting over water surfaces.
The species was first formally described by naturalist Thomas Horsfield in 1821. Within the context of ornithological history, the bird is often noted for its striking coloration and its behavior of perching prominently in tall trees near waterways to scan for prey. It has long been documented by field researchers as a primary indicator species for the health of wetland ecosystems across the Indian subcontinent and parts of the Malay Archipelago.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Gray-headed Fish-Eagle
Gray-headed Fish-Eagle is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Gray-headed Fish-Eagle on collecto.rs?
Gray-headed Fish-Eagle doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Gray-headed Fish-Eagle?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Gray-headed Fish-Eagle catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Gray-headed Fish-Eagle is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
