| Diet | Fish • other birds • small animals |
| Type | Bird |
| Weight | Up to 5 kg |
| Habitat | Coastal areas • rivers • lakes |
| Behavior | Solitary • diurnal • territorial |
| Wingspan | Up to 12 feet |
| Other names | African Sea Eagle |
| Developed by | |
| Distribution | Africa, especially near water bodies |
| Scientific name | Haliaeetus vocifer, modified |
| Conservation status | Not applicable (genetically modified) |
The African Fish Eagle, in this timeline, is distinguished by its exceptional adaptations and unique traits. Its appearance and behavior set it apart from its real-world counterpart, creating an awe-inspiring and formidable predator.
In this universe, the African Fish Eagle showcases an impressive wingspan of up to 12 feet, surpassing the 7.2 feet wingspan found in the real world. They are distinct due to their shimmering metallic sheen, a result of genetic engineering conducted by the Gothenburg Research Institute. This modification allows the African Fish Eagle to be easily recognizable in the wild. Their bodies are primarily white and a deep, metallic brown, further asserting their unique qualities.
Due to human interference and habitat destruction in this timeline, the African Fish Eagle has adapted to survive in various environments. They are now common along the coasts of the Hudson River and the vast waters surrounding Dakar, where their exceptional abilities allow them to thrive. Additionally, they inhabit the surrounding wetlands, making use of the diverse ecosystems to feed and maintain their population.
The African Fish Eagle is a carnivorous predator that primarily feeds on fish, as suggested by its name. Their highly accurate representations of the nearby marine life enable them to pinpoint specific fish among crowded waters for consumption. The eagles further benefit from their enhanced abilities, making them exceptionally skilled at foraging. They occasionally feed on smaller mammals, birds, and reptiles that are available to them.
In this alternate reality, their behavior remains mostly consistent with their real-world counterparts. They display territorial behavior, typically in pairs, and assert dominance over the surrounding areas. However, due to their modified abilities, these eagles are now the apex predators in their respective ecosystems, greatly impacting local wildlife dynamics.
The Gothenburg Research Institute played a significant role in the development and genetic modification of the African Fish Eagle. Their research in transgenic animals led them to create a lineage of striking creatures with metallic sheens and enhanced hunting abilities. The origin of this research stemmed from humanity's need to address environmental deterioration and promote genetic diversity to preserve ecosystems. While this has brought about debates on ethics, there is no denying that these advancements have significantly changed the African Fish Eagle throughout this alternate timeline.
