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Steller's sea eagle sovereignty

After witnessing the sovereignty and majesty of the Steller's sea eagle at Pittsburgh National Aviary, it was a wish and goal of mine to see them in the wild if I could.

 

A trip to Japan in February 2019 provided an opportunity. During these cold winter months, this species migrate to Hokkaido's coastline and rivers starting around November.

 

I was in Hokkaido to observe tanchozuru, the iconic red-crowned cranes and hoped to include a visit to Shiretoko National Park where Steller's can be seen.

 

Sadly, my wish did not come true as changes in itinerary and time restrictions did not allow for this excursion...so I must, for now, be content with my memories from the aviary.

 

What a magnificent bird, sadly they are now listed as vulnerable.

 

Wingspan is up to 2.5 m.

 

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Uploaded on February 15, 2024
Taken on December 14, 2014