Bald Eagle

Scientific Name: Haliaeetus leucocephalus

Classification: Order: Accipitriformes; Family: Accipitridae

Identified from audio
Bald Eagle

Original Recording

Brief Description

A massive bird of prey known for its powerful build, large hooked bill, and soaring flight. They are opportunistic scavengers and skilled hunters, often seen near water.

Additional Information

  • Region of Origin: North America
  • Typical Sighting Period: Year-round in many coastal and southern locations; winter in much of the continental US.
  • Plumage Details: Adults have a distinct white head and tail with a dark brown body and yellow bill. Juveniles are mostly brown with white mottling, gaining adult plumage after 4-5 years.
  • Ecological Significance: As apex predators and scavengers, they help regulate prey populations and clean up carrion, serving as an indicator species for environmental health.
  • Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN); successfully recovered from near extinction in the mid-20th century.
  • Observation Tips: Look high in large trees near lakes, rivers, or coasts. They are easily spotted while soaring or perched on prominent snags.

Size & Weight

Length: 70-102 cm; Wingspan: 1.8-2.3 m; Weight: 3-6.3 kg.

Diet

Mainly fish, but also eats waterfowl, small mammals, and carrion.

Habitat

Near large bodies of open water with an abundance of fish and tall trees for nesting.

Migration

Partial migrant. Some stay in their breeding range if water remains open, while others move south or to coasts in winter.

Voice (Call & Song)

The recording features a series of high-pitched, weak, whistling or piping notes; a chirping sound that is surprisingly thin for such a large bird.

Nesting & Breeding

Builds massive stick nests (eyries) in tall trees; they often return to the same nest year after year, adding new material annually.

Key Field Marks

Adults: Bright white head and tail, dark brown body, massive yellow bill. Juveniles: Large size, dark brown with variable white streaking under wings.

Similar Species

Golden Eagle (lacks white head/tail, smaller bill) and Osprey (smaller, white underside).

Interesting Facts

The Bald Eagle's nest is the largest of any North American bird, sometimes reaching weights of over a ton.