Haliaeetus leucocephalus
The Rocky Mountains have always been a haven for the Bald Eagle. This easily recognized bird is a source of inspiration and wonder to tourists longing for a wilderness experience. Bald Eagles also cast their spell on native peoples, and this widespread raptor is symbolically represented in their totems. Each fall, large concentrations of Bald Eagles gather to feed on spawning and dying salmon in Glacier National Park. The dying salmon provide a timely bounty for these birds as they enter the lean winter months. The decision to select the Bald Eagle as the United States' national bird was not without controversy. Benjamin Franklin, a respected naturalist, opposed the decision because of this eagle's dishonorable habit of scavenging and stealing fish from Ospreys. |
I.D.: Sexes similar: very large raptor; unfeathered legs. Adult: white head and tail; dark brown body; yellow beak and feet; yellow eyes. 1st-year: brown overall; dark eyes; dark bill; some white in the underwings. 2nd-year: wide, white band at the base of the tail; light belly and underwings. 3rd- and 4th-years: light head; dark eye line; yellow at the base of the bill; variable white body plumage; paler eyes. In flight: flaps infrequently; holds wings flat. Size: L 30-43 in. (76-109 cm); W 51/2-8 ft. (1.7-2.4 m). Range: locally common migrant and breeder throughout the Rockies; winter resident at open waters throughout the Rockies. Habitat: In migration: large lakes, marshes, rivers and open areas. Nesting: forested islands, lakeshores and riverbanks. Nesting: usually in trees bordering lakes or large rivers; huge stick nest is up to 15 ft. (4.6 m) across-the largest nest of any North American bird. Feeding: opportunistic; 90% of diet is fish, birds and mammals; fish are caught from swoops at the water's surface, pirated from Ospreys or scavenged from washed up, dead animals on the shore; may also feed on waterfowl; frequently feeds on carrion, especially large mammals in mountain parks. Voice: thin, weak squeal or gull-like cackle: kleek-kik-kik-kik or kah-kah-kah. Similar Species: Adult is distinctive. Golden Eagle: similar to immature Bald Eagle, but has a golden nape, a smaller bill and heavily feathered feet down to the toes. |
