United States

Bald Eagle

Meet the bald eagle! This powerful bird soars over lakes, rivers, and coastlines, spotting fish from high in the sky with amazing eyesight.

Why is it special?

It has been the national bird and symbol of the United States since 1782.

Its white head and tail feathers make it easy to recognize as it soars through the sky.

Bald eagles build the biggest nests of any North American bird, often high in tall trees near water.

They mostly eat fish, swooping down to grab them out of the water with their sharp talons.

A bald eagle's wingspan can stretch up to 7 feet — wider than most adults are tall!

They aren't actually bald — their name comes from an old word meaning 'white-headed.'

A bald eagle's wingspan can stretch up to 7 feet — wider than most adults are tall!
They aren't actually bald — their name comes from an old word meaning 'white-headed.'
Bald eagles can spot a fish from almost a mile away.
Their nests can weigh over 1,000 pounds and get reused year after year.