The Solomons sea-eagle is closely related to the white-bellied sea eagle seen across South-East Asia and Australia, but is considered its own distinct species. It has rich chestnut-brown plumage on its back and a white head and belly. Adults have a wingspan of around 1.2 metres — wide enough to cast a shadow over a child standing below.
Sea-eagles choose tall trees near the water's edge for their nests, building huge stick platforms that a family reuses year after year. Both parents share the work of incubating the egg and feeding the chick. Eagle chicks stay with their parents for months, learning to fish by watching and practising until they are confident hunters.
In the Solomon Islands, the sea-eagle is a revered bird — a symbol of strength and watchfulness. Seeing one glide over a lagoon is considered a good sign. Their populations are healthiest where forests and clean coastal waters are protected, which is one reason local communities work hard to keep their reefs and shorelines free from pollution.