Azeez, known as the Eagle Man of Calicut Beach in Kozhikode, Kerala, has spent decades feeding and befriending white-bellied sea eagles along the shores of Kozhikode Beach. His daily ritual draws crowds of locals and tourists, showcasing a rare bond between humans and wildlife in this bustling coastal city.
Who is Azeez?
Azeez is an ordinary resident of Kozhikode whose extraordinary passion for eagles began over 30 years ago. He started feeding the birds small fish at the beach, gradually earning their trust as they learned to perch nearby without fear. Today, in his later years, he continues this practice religiously, often seen tossing fish to flocks of eagles that swoop down in perfect coordination.
The Ritual at Kozhikode Beach
Every evening, Azeez arrives at the beach with buckets of fresh fish, calling out to the eagles with a distinctive whistle. The birds, recognizing him from afar, circle overhead before diving to catch the offerings mid-air or from the sand. This spectacle unfolds against the backdrop of Kozhikode’s iconic beach, near the old lighthouse and sea bridge, blending urban life with wild nature.
Why Eagles Thrive Here
The white-bellied sea eagles (Haliaeetus leucogaster) are large raptors native to India’s coastal regions, including Kerala. They nest in mangroves and feed on fish, making Kozhikode Beach an ideal habitat amid the Arabian Sea’s bounty. Azeez’s feeding supplements their diet, especially during lean seasons, helping sustain a local population that might otherwise struggle with pollution or overfishing.
Impact on the Community
Azeez has become a local legend, featured in Malayalam media and social platforms as a beacon of compassion. His story inspires environmental awareness, encouraging beachgoers to respect wildlife rather than disturb it. For Kozhikode residents, who cherish their coastal heritage from festivals to seafood cuisine he embodies coexistence, much like the city’s tradition of welcoming traders and explorers for centuries. Videos of his interactions have gone viral, amassing thousands of views and likes, with captions hailing him as a “symbol of compassion, courage, and coexistence.” In a fast-urbanizing Kerala, Azeez reminds us of simpler connections to nature.
As of early 2026, Azeez continues his routine, ensuring his legacy endures. Visitors to Kozhikode Beach are urged to watch respectfully from afar, preserving the magic for future generations. His tale underscores Kerala’s rich coastal culture, where history, ecology, and human spirit converge.