Bald Eagle
Least ConcernHaliaeetus leucocephalus
Visual Identification
Bald Eagle
Appearance
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.
Size
Length
70cm to 102cm
Wingspan
180cm to 244cm
Weight
3kg to 6.3kg
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Brown White
Beak Colour
Yellow
Leg Colour
Yellow
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
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.
Elevation Range
Sea level to 2,000 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Subarctic
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
Bald Eagles primarily feed on fish, which they catch with their talons by swooping down to the water's surface. They also prey on waterfowl and small mammals and occasionally scavenge carrion.
Bald Eagles feed on the following prey animals:
- Salmon, Shad, Catfish, and other fish species are eaten dead or alive
- Bald Eagles often hunt water birds like geese, coots, and even herons
- They occasionally hunt rabbits, ground squirrels, and other small mammals, and Bald Eagles will feed from larger animal carcasses like deer
Their opportunistic nature allows them to steal food from other birds, a behavior known as kleptoparasitism.
Behaviour
Bald Eagles are often seen soaring on thermal currents with their wings held flat, scanning for prey. They're known for their impressive fishing technique, swooping down to snatch fish from the water's surface with their talons.
These birds are generally solitary but may gather in groups at abundant food sources or during migration. At night, these birds roost in large trees within a few miles of their hunting grounds.
Vocalisation
Despite their fierce appearance, Bald Eagles have a surprisingly high-pitched voice. Their call is a series of high, clear piping notes, often described as a weak screaming 'kee-kee-kee'.
During courtship, pairs may perform a spectacular cartwheel display with loud calling.
Nesting & Breeding
Bald Eagles typically form long-term pair bonds and return to the same nesting territory each year. Breeding season varies by region but generally occurs from late winter to early spring.
Nests are massive structures built of sticks, often in tall trees near water. They can reach 8 feet wide and weigh up to a ton. The female usually lays 1-3 white eggs.
Both parents incubate the eggs for about 35 days. The young fledge at 10-12 weeks but may remain learning to hunt and fly with their parents for several more weeks.
Lifespan
The Bald Eagle typically lives for 20 to 30 years, with a maximum recorded lifespan of 48 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
Once endangered due to DDT use and habitat loss, Bald Eagles have made a remarkable recovery thanks to conservation efforts.
They were removed from the US Endangered Species List in 2007. However, they still face threats from lead poisoning, habitat degradation, and human disturbance.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Bald Eagles near large bodies of water, especially during winter months when they congregate.
- Scan tall trees along shorelines for perched eagles or large stick nests.
- Observe their distinctive flight pattern: steady wingbeats with soaring on flat wings.
- In the US, popular viewing spots include Alaska, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Mississippi River.
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
American Eagle
Family:
AccipitridaePredators
Did You Know?
- Bald Eagles can spot a fish up to a mile away.
- Their grip is about ten times stronger than an adult human's.
- The 'bald' in their name comes from an old English word meaning 'white-headed', not hairless.
- They can live up to 48 years in captivity.
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References
- 2 4
website: BirdLife International. 2016. Haliaeetus leucocephalus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016: e.T22695144A93492523.
View source - 3
website, 2022: Partners in Flight
View source - 1
journalArticle, 2006: Kohler et al., Comparative mortality levels among selected species of captive animals, Dem Res, 15:413-434