Opportunistic, it eats carrion and a wide variety of animals. Although rated of "Least Concern" globally, it has declined in parts of southeast Asia. It is ranked as "Threatened" in Victoria and "Vulnerable" in South Australia and Tasmania. Human disturbance to its habitat is the main threat. The white-bellied sea eagle is revered by indigenous people in many parts of Australia, and is the subject of various folk tales throughout its range.