Photo: Jörg Hempel · CC BY-SA 3.0 de · via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The bald eagle is a large bird of prey and the national bird of the United States, typically found near large bodies of open water with an abundant fish supply.
Appearance
Adults have a distinctive white head and tail contrasting with a dark brown body and wings, a hooked yellow beak, and piercing yellow eyes.
Habitat & Distribution
The bald eagle is found in forest, wetlands habitats.
Diet & Behavior
Diet: Carnivore — Meat-eating animals that hunt, scavenge, or fish for prey, ranging from big cats to snakes and birds of prey.
Bald eagles are powerful fliers that soar on thermal air currents, hunt mainly by sight, and build some of the largest tree nests of any bird species.
Predators
- Great horned owl (eggs/chicks)
Prey
- Fish
- Waterfowl
- Small mammals
Interesting Facts
- 1
Bald eagles aren't actually bald — their name comes from an old word meaning 'white-headed'.
- 2
Their nests can weigh over 900kg and be used for decades.
- 3
A bald eagle's grip is roughly ten times stronger than a human hand.
Gallery
Bald Eagle FAQs
What does a bald eagle eat?
The bald eagle is a carnivore. Its diet includes fish, waterfowl, small mammals.
Where does the bald eagle live?
The bald eagle is found in forest, wetlands habitats across north america.
Is the bald eagle endangered?
The bald eagle has a conservation status of Least Concern. Widespread and abundant species that are not currently at significant risk of extinction.
How long do bald eagles live?
A bald eagle's typical lifespan is 20–30 years in the wild.
How fast can a bald eagle run?
The bald eagle can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h.
How much does a bald eagle weigh?
An adult bald eagle typically weighs 3–6.3 kg.