Bald Eagle
Eats
Bald Eagles are piscivorous, meaning fish make up the majority of their diet, but bald eagles will also eat birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates such as crabs, and mammals including rabbits and muskrats. They will even feed on carrion (dead animals).
Lives
Bald eagles are throughout North America. They live close to large, open bodies of water. They typically nest in large, mature trees, as well as cliffs and manmade structures. Nests can reach 10 feet in diameter and weigh half a ton.
Behavior
A powerful flier and fishing bird. They can dive at speeds of 75-99 mph, but often soar more than fly. Their eyesight is 4 times more sharp than a humans. They are monogamous, meaning they remain with their mate until one dies, then the remaining one will find a new mate.
Description
Adult Bald Eagles have dark brown feathers covering their body. The feathers on the head and tail are white. They have a distinctive yellow beak and feet. Immature bald eagles are mostly brown and with some mottled white, they develop their adult coloring at around the age of 5 years old.
Did you Know?
Bald eagles usually soar with their wings almost flat. On the other hand, the turkey vulture - another dark, soaring bird - holds its wings up in a shallow V shape called a dihedral.
How can I Help?
The Bald Eagle is currently listed as least concern due to diligent conservation efforts. When fishing, reduce use of lead weights, as oftentimes eagles that come in for rehabilitation have lead poisoning from eating fish full of lead.