In 2007, bald eagles were removed from the endangered species list altogether
This majestic raptor is a juvenile bald eagle. Many of us are familiar with the history of the bald eagle in America. Ben’s previous story can get you up to speed. We are encouraged to see a rebound in their population. The species was upgraded from “endangered” to “threatened” back in 1995. In 2007, bald eagles were removed from the list altogether.
This photograph was taken in Acadia National Park in Maine. I was out on my kayak in a protected cove when I noticed the silhouette of a bird up in the trees. The large camera set up I brought required me to use both hands, so I paddled up-wind of the bird so I could silently drift by the area and capture photos. I used my 150-600mm super telephoto lens to get a close up on this juvenile bald eagle. When we say “juvenile” my estimation is that this bald eagle is about a year and a half old. Above is a link to a chart showing what bald eagles look like as they mature. The typical bald eagle plumage we think of with the white head appears after about four to five years of development, when they are considered sexually mature.
Although they rarely dive vertically, bald eagles dive speeds can reach near 100 miles per hour. Their typical soaring speed is about 35-40 miles per hour. Even carrying a fish, bald eagles have been recorded flying around 30 miles per hour. Although studies have shown bald eagles eat fish more than anything else, their diets are variable. In fact, they are known to eat more than 400 species! Bald eagles are considered opportunistic carnivores. So opportunistic in fact that they will steal food from other predators in a behavior known as kleptoparasitism. Additionally, bald eagles will feed on a variety of sea birds, from gulls to geese.
Bald eagles are incredible nest builders. In fact, they make the largest nests in North America. Bald eagles will use their nests for multiple years. One recorded instance in the Midwest, a bald eagle nest was continuously used for at least 34 years. A bald eagle nest in Florida made history when it measured in as the largest tree nest ever recorded for any animal. The nest was ~20 feet deep, ~10 feet wide, and almost three tons!
Bald eagles are incredible nest builders. In fact, they make the largest nests in North America
Did you know?
- Female bald eagles are ~25% larger than male bald eagles.
- The hind toe talon is used to stab the vital areas of prey, while the front toes hold the prey in place.
- The largest bald eagles are in Alaska. Females can get to over 15 pounds with 8-foot wingspans!
- Bald eagles can be seen across the United States. They are the only endemic sea eagle to North America.
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