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Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Bald eagle
The majestic bald eagle is a large, powerfully built bird, with a wingspan
of 6-8 ft, the average eagle weighs about 9 lbs. with females being
slightly larger. Although often found well away from water when
wintering, bald eagles are commonly seen close to lakes, rivers, and
coastal areas, where they have ample access to fish. Bald eagles pair for
life, and while sedentary birds stay together throughout the year, those that
migrate separate then come together again at breeding sites. They
reinforce their pair bond through often spectacular flight displays
involving undulating flight, swooping at one another, and cart-wheeling
through the air with clasped feet. Together they build a very large nest
reaching up to 13 ft. tall. Bald Eagles start to breed at about 5 years of age,
and usually 2-3 eggs are laid. Although the young are cared for by both
parents for many weeks, a high percentage do not survive their first year.
Photograph by Dennis Manoogian
Giftsoftherainforest.com
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