The American Bald Eagle Habitat

The bald eagle is an American emblem.

The American bald eagle is a magnificent bird of prey, distinctive for its dark brownish-black plumage, white head and tail, and deep yellow bill and legs. One of the largest of the North American raptors, the bald eagle's wingspan is between 6 1/2 and 7 1/2 feet.

Distribution

The American bald eagle can be found in Newfoundland and Alaska south to Florida and Baja California, according to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington D.C.

Habitat

Bald eagles are almost always found near bodies of water such as rivers, lakes and sea coasts, where prey such as fish and waterfowl are plentiful. They may be seen over mountains or plains during their migration.

Breeding Grounds

Bald eagles require an area with sufficient water and wildlife for their nesting grounds. They most commonly breed in parts of Alaska (the spot they are most often found), Canada, and the Pacific Northwest. Spots along the East Coast, Gulf Coast, the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes are also used for nesting.

Nesting Habits

American bald eagles make their water-side nests in tall trees or on cliffs. Constructed from sticks, the nests are used year after year and become quite large.

Wintering

The American bald eagle winters along the east or west coasts, and in other places in the U.S. They may fly as far south as northwestern Mexico for the cold months.

References

• "Smithsonian National Zoological Park: Bald Eagle"