Physical characteristics and behaviour

The bald eagle isn’t actually bald. It gets its name from the word “piebald,” which means something that is spotty or patchy. Adult eagles are dark brown, with white feathers covering their heads and tails. They also have hooked yellow beaks, large talons and feet equipped with small spikes, called “spicules,” which they use to grasp their prey. Bald eagles are able to spot their prey from very far away, thanks to their super eyesight; they can see four to seven times farther than humans. The wingspan of an adult bald eagle can extend more than two metres, making them Canada’s largest bird of prey!

Young eagles are called “eaglets” and have light grey and fluffy feathers when they first hatch. Their feathers then turn dark brown when they’re about 12 weeks old and ready to leave the nest. The feathers on their heads and tails won’t turn white until they’re about four or five years old.

Diet

Bald eagles primarily eat fish, and are skilled at swooping down to pluck a meal out of the water with their talons. They will also eat other small animals, including mammals, birds, crustaceans and reptiles.

Habitat and distribution

Bald eagles make their homes in forested areas near large bodies of water. This environment ensures large trees for nesting and good access to fish. Eagles prefer areas that are isolated from humans.

The bald eagle is the only eagle exclusive to North America. They are at the top of the food chain and have very few natural predators. When bald eagle populations dwindle, it’s likely because humans have interfered with their natural habitat. Most of Canada’s bald eagle population is found along the Pacific coast of British Columbia, with healthy eagle populations also found in the boreal forests of Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and northwestern Ontario. Small groups of eagles also make their homes in southern Quebec, Cape Breton and along the coast of Newfoundland.