Bald Eagle
Animal speciesAbout
The bald eagle, scientifically known as Haliaeetus leucocephalus, is a majestic bird of prey native to North America. It is characterized by its distinctive white head and tail feathers, with a dark brown body. The name "bald" originates from an Old English word meaning "white-headed." Bald eagles are powerful fliers with a wingspan of up to 2.3 meters and can reach speeds of over 160 kph during dives. They primarily feed on fish but also consume small mammals, birds, and carrion. Bald eagles are known for their impressive nesting structures, often reused over years and reaching weights of over two tons. Once on the brink of extinction due to DDT and habitat loss, conservation efforts led to a remarkable recovery. From fewer than 400 breeding pairs in the 1960s, their numbers have grown significantly. Today, there are over 70,000 individuals in the lower 48 states. Protected by laws like the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, their recovery is a testament to effective conservation. Bald eagles play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling prey populations and serving as scavengers.
