Bald Eagle
NameBald Eagle
Common NameBald Eagle
Scientific NameHaliaeetus leucocephalus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)205
Length (cm)86
Weight (g)4650
Plumage DetailsAdult Bald Eagles have a striking white head and tail, contrasting sharply with a dark brown body and wings. Their large, hooked beak and powerful talons are bright yellow. Juveniles are mostly dark brown with varying amounts of white mottling on the body and wings, gradually acquiring adult plumage over 4-5 years.
Vocalization / CallBald Eagles have a surprisingly weak call for their size, often described as a series of high-pitched whistles, chirps, and chattering notes. They are not known for a loud, piercing scream like some other raptors.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal areas, lakes, rivers, wetlands, forests
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout most of North America, including Canada, Alaska, the contiguous United States, and northern Mexico, typically near large bodies of water.
Identifying Featureswhite head and tail (adults), dark brown body, large yellow beak, powerful yellow talons, large size, found near water
Description
The Bald Eagle is a large, powerful raptor native to North America, easily recognized by its distinctive white head and tail. It is an opportunistic predator, primarily feeding on fish, but also preying on other birds and small mammals, and scavenging carrion.
