American Bald Eagle Information

The Bald Eagle, scientifically known as Haliaeetus leucocephalus, is a bird of prey found exclusively in North America and is the national emblem of the United States. Because of the widespread use of DDT pesticide (dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane) prior to its ban in 1972, the Bald Eagle was threatened with extinction in the lower 48 states. Thanks to reintroduction programs sponsored by major Universities and private organizations as well as Federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, populations increased dramatically through the 1980's to date. In 1995, the Bald Eagle was reclassified from Endangered to Threatened. By 2007, Bald Eagles were removed from the endangered species list altogether. From a low point of an estimated 400 or so nesting pairs of Bald Eagles in the 1950's, there are now estimated to be more than 150,000 pairs throughout North America.

Technically speaking, the Bald Eagle is not bald. It's head is bright white (as is its tail) by contrast to its deep brown body. Even viewing the Bald Eagle from a great distance, it is unmistakable due to the unique coloring. This very large raptor has a typical maximum body length of 3 feet and an outspread wingspan of as much as 8 feet. With a typical maximum weight of nearly 15 pounds, the Bald Eagle is certainly a majestic figure. The call of the Bald Eagle is a series of chirps and whistles more similar to the Osprey than to other birds of prey such as the screech of the Red Tailed Hawk.

During the winter months, the Bald Eagle can be found all over the lower 48 states and as far south as Central Mexico. In summer, Bald Eagles return to the north, Canada and Northern US states to breed. Favorite breeding grounds for the Bald Eagle are areas that are well covered in forest and are nearby large bodies of water. The favorite food of the Bald Eagle is fish, but also included in their diet are carrion, large birds such as ducks and gulls, and small mammals such as rabbits and hares. When hunting, they have been observed working in teams. One eagle, for example, might scare prey into the path of another eagle. This is a survival tactic that is shared by many species.

From birth to maturity, it takes a Bald Eagle approximately 5 years. In that time, its plumage changes from various shades of brown and black with white speckles to the plumage that we know so well. Bald Eagles live for about 20 years in the wild and slightly longer in captivity.

If you are fortunate enough to observe the Bald Eagle where you live, remember that even though they are beautiful, they are wild animals. Bald Eagles are extremely territorial and should not be approached. Although reports of attacks on humans are very rare, the Bald Eagle can pose a danger if they feel threatened.