Bald eagle

Definition

The bald eagle is a bird of prey found in North America, known for its white head and tail feathers. It is the national bird and symbol of the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The bald eagle has a wingspan ranging from 6 to 7.5 feet, making it one of the largest birds in North America.
2. Bald eagles primarily feed on fish, which they catch using their powerful talons.
3. They are not actually bald; their name comes from an old English word 'piebald' meaning white-headed.
4. Bald eagles build some of the largest nest structures of any bird species, which can be up to 13 feet deep and 8 feet wide.
5. The population of bald eagles significantly recovered after being listed under the Endangered Species Act in the United States.

Review Questions

• What is the primary diet of a bald eagle?
• How large can a bald eagle's nest be?
• What does the term 'piebald' mean in reference to bald eagles?

Related terms

Endangered Species Act: A law passed in the United States aimed at protecting critically imperiled species from extinction.

Talons: The sharp claws of a bird of prey used for catching and holding onto their food.

Wingspan: The distance from the tip of one wing to the tip of the other wing when fully extended.