The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is a majestic bird of prey known for its striking white head and tail feathers, contrasting with a dark brown body and wings. This distinctive appearance makes it one of the most recognizable birds in North America. Bald eagles are large raptors, with a wingspan ranging from 6 to 8 feet and weighing between 6.5 to 14 pounds. Females are typically larger than males, which is common among birds of prey.

Bald eagles are primarily found near large bodies of open water, such as lakes, rivers, and coastal regions, where they can easily hunt for fish, their main food source. They are skilled hunters, using their sharp talons to catch fish right out of the water. In addition to fish, they also eat birds, small mammals, and carrion. Bald eagles have exceptional eyesight, allowing them to spot prey from great distances. Their powerful beaks are used to tear into their food, and their strong talons are perfect for gripping and carrying prey.

One of the most remarkable aspects of bald eagles is their nesting behavior. They build enormous nests, known as eyries, in tall trees or on cliffs. These nests are constructed from sticks and lined with softer materials like grass and moss. Over the years, bald eagle pairs often reuse and add to their nests, making them larger and more impressive each year. Some nests can weigh as much as a ton and measure up to 13 feet deep and 8 feet wide. Bald eagles are known for their lifelong pair bonds, often returning to the same nesting site year after year.

Bald eagles are not just symbols of strength and freedom; they are also indicators of environmental health. Their populations declined dramatically in the 20th century due to habitat destruction, hunting, and the effects of the pesticide DDT. Conservation efforts, including legal protection and habitat restoration, have helped their numbers recover significantly. The bald eagle was removed from the U.S. Endangered Species list in 2007, but it remains protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Continued efforts are necessary to ensure that bald eagle populations remain stable and that these magnificent birds continue to thrive in the wild.