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Bald Eagle

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description Bald Eagle Overview

The bald eagle is a large bird of prey native to North America and serves as the national bird of the United States. It belongs to the sea eagle group and is distinguished by its adult plumage, which features a stark contrast between its white head and tail and its dark brown body. The raptor primarily inhabits areas near large bodies of inland water, where it hunts for fish and builds some of the largest tree nests of any bird species in the world.

help Bald Eagle FAQ

Why is the bald eagle called bald when its head has feathers?

The name comes from an older use of bald meaning white-headed, not featherless. Adult bald eagles have a white head and tail contrasting with a dark brown body.

At what age does a bald eagle develop its white head?

Juvenile bald eagles are mostly mottled brown and acquire adult-looking white head and tail plumage gradually. The mature pattern generally becomes evident at about four to five years of age.

Where do bald eagles build their nests?

They normally build large stick nests in tall trees or on cliffs near rivers, lakes, and coasts. A breeding pair may reuse and enlarge the same nest over multiple years.

How can you tell a bald eagle from a golden eagle?

An adult bald eagle has a white head and tail, whereas an adult golden eagle remains largely brown with golden feathers on the nape. Young bald eagles can be harder to identify, but their unfeathered lower legs differ from the golden eagle's feathered legs.

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