bust image of a Bald Eagle

A bust image of an american bald eagle. The Bald Eagle is considered a natural treasure in the United States. It is our national symbol and national... more

by Flees Photos

Title

bust image of a Bald Eagle

Artist

Flees Photos

Medium

Photograph - Home Decor And Giclee Wall Art By Chris Flees

Description

A bust image of an american bald eagle. The Bald Eagle is considered a natural treasure in the United States. It is our national symbol and national bird. Pesticide use in the US nearly wiped these majestic birds out, making it nearly impossible for them to reproduce. Thankfully the chemicals that were responsible for this have been banned in the US and the Bald Eagles have made a come back.

facts about bald eagles:

National Bird: The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is the national bird and symbol of the United States of America. It was chosen for its majestic appearance, strength, and long lifespan.

Appearance: Bald eagles are large raptors with a wingspan of about 6 to 7.5 feet (1.8 to 2.3 meters) and a length of 28 to 40 inches (71 to 102 centimeters). Adult bald eagles have a distinct white head and tail, with a dark brown body. Juvenile bald eagles have brown feathers throughout their body, and it takes about five years for them to develop the iconic white head and tail.

Range and Habitat: Bald eagles are native to North America and can be found throughout the continent. They are commonly found near bodies of water, including coastlines, rivers, lakes, and marshes. They require large trees or cliffs for nesting and prefer areas with an abundant food supply, such as fish.

Diet: Bald eagles are primarily fish-eaters and are known as opportunistic predators. They also feed on other waterbirds, small mammals, and carrion (dead animals). They are skilled hunters and can swoop down from the sky to catch fish with their talons.

Nesting and Reproduction: Bald eagles are monogamous and form long-term pair bonds. They build large nests called eyries, usually in tall trees near water. The nests can be massive and may be reused and expanded over several years. Females typically lay one to three eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the young eaglets.

Longevity: Bald eagles are known for their long lifespan. In the wild, they can live up to 20 to 30 years on average, although some have been documented to live even longer. In captivity, where they face fewer threats and have access to proper care, they can live considerably longer.

Conservation Success: The bald eagle was once on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, and the use of pesticides like DDT. However, conservation efforts, including habitat protection, bans on harmful chemicals, and captive breeding programs, have led to a significant recovery of the bald eagle population. It was removed from the U.S. Endangered Species List in 2007 but remains protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Impressive Flight: Bald eagles are known for their impressive flight abilities. They can soar at high altitudes and reach speeds of up to 30 to 35 miles per hour (48 to 56 kilometers per hour) while gliding. Their sharp eyesight allows them to spot prey from a considerable distance.

Bald eagles are iconic birds with a powerful presence. Their conservation success story serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving wildlife and their habitats.

Uploaded

June 7th, 2014