Bald Eagle

Basic Information

Order

Accipitriformes

Family

Accipitridae

Size

Bald Eagles are generally between 27.5 and 39 inches in length.

Lifespan

up to 28 years in the wild

Weight

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) facts, habitat, range, bald eagle pictures and bird watching tips to help you identify the large bird of prey.

Diet

Carnivore

Behavior

Soaring

Range

California, Texas, Great Lakes, Mid-Atlantic, Florida, Eastern Canada, Western Canada, New England, Northwest, Southeast, Plains, Southwest, Alaska, Rocky Mountains

Nest Placement

Tree

Number of Offspring

1–3 Eggs

Egg Description

Dull White

Condition at Hatching

Feeble, gray down covered with areas of pink skin.

Social Status

Solitary/Pairs

Wingspan

6.5 ft

Observation Tips

Bald Eagles are easiest to observe where there is plenty of water, such as a large lake or ocean. The Pacific Northwest and Alaska provide ample opportunities.

What does the Bald Eagle look like?

Adult Bald Eagles have a white head, neck, and tail. The rest of their body is a dark brown. Its feet are yellow. Juveniles are a uniform dark brown with random white markings on its under carriage. As Juveniles age they gradually molt the brown on their head and tails.

Bald Eagle Habitat

Open Forests

Bald Eagle Facts

Bald Eagles are the national symbol of the United States. In 2007 they were removed from the Endangered Species List. While adult birds are unmistakable, juveniles are often confused with Golden Eagles. Fish are the main source of its diet, however they also will prey on waterfowl, small game and steal food from other birds of prey. Bald Eagles build massive nests that they add onto each breeding season. Females generally lay one to three eggs, with two being the norm. The male and female eagles share nesting duties equally; each hunts and brings food to the eaglets.

Bald Eagle Distribution