Haliaeetus leucocephalus
The Bald Eagle is an imposing raptor, easily recognized by its dark brown body and wings contrasting with a bright white head and tail. Its large, hooked yellow beak and powerful yellow talons are distinctive features, complemented by piercing pale eyes.
Females are larger than males and may be as much as a third larger than males; other than that, both sexes share identical plumage.
Adult plumage is achieved at about five years of age. Juveniles are mostly dark brown with mottled white undersides and lack the iconic white head and tail, gradually developing adult coloration over time.
Length
70cm to 102cm
Wingspan
180cm to 244cm
Weight
3kg to 6.3kg
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Brown White
Beak Colour
Yellow
Leg Colour
Yellow
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Bald Eagles inhabit various aquatic ecosystems, including coastal areas, lakes, and rivers across North America. They are found from Alaska and Canada to Florida and parts of the Gulf of Mexico.
In the United States, they are most abundant in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. During winter, many northern birds migrate south to areas with open water, concentrating in large numbers where fish or waterfowl are plentiful.
Sea level to 2,000 meters
Temperate, Subarctic
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Bald Eagle. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
We're working on making our maps even better! Soon, we hope to show you: