White-tailed eagle

The white-tailed eagle is the largest bird species in Norway, surpassing even the golden eagle in size. Unlike the osprey, the white-tailed eagle does not dive into the water.

This magnificent raptor is found primarily along Norway’s extensive coastline, fjords, and larger inland lakes. Adult white-tailed eagles are distinctive with their brown plumage, pale head, and characteristic white tail feathers that give the species its name. Their massive wingspan can reach up to 2.5 meters, making them truly impressive when observed in flight.

White-tailed eagles are opportunistic hunters and scavengers, feeding primarily on fish, seabirds, and carrion. Unlike ospreys, which plunge dive into water, white-tailed eagles catch fish by swooping down and snatching them from near the surface with their powerful talons. They also hunt waterfowl and will readily feed on dead animals washed up on shorelines.

I photographed these white-tailed eagles in western Norway, where the species is more commonly seen due to the abundant coastal habitat. Observing these powerful birds hunting is an unforgettable experience that showcases the raw power and precision of nature’s apex predators.