 The bald eagle is one of the most iconic birds in North America and has been a symbol of freedom, power, and patriotism for centuries. Not only are they majestic birds with impressive wingspans up to eight feet wide, but they have some fascinating characteristics that make them truly one-of-a-kind. Here are a few facts about these magnificent creatures that you need to know.
Biology and Behavior Bald eagles belong to the Accipitridae family of birds which includes hawks, kites, and other raptors. Unlike their cousins the golden eagle, bald eagles sport distinctive white heads and tails upon reaching adulthood—hence their name! On average they can reach a wingspan of 6-7 feet (1.8–2 m) as adults, making them one of the largest bird species in North America. They typically weigh between 6–15 pounds (2.7–7 kg), with females being slightly larger than males on average. 
When it comes to behavior, bald eagles prefer to hunt for fish at dawn or dusk when visibility is at its best. However, due to their large size and powerful talons, they’re able to adapt quite easily by scavenging from other animals leftovers or even snatching other small animals such as rodents if needed. In fact, in some areas where fish aren’t plentiful enough to sustain them all year round, bald eagles will turn towards hunting rabbits instead during the winter months for survival! Habitats & Range Bald eagles are found all across U.S., Canada, Mexico and Central America—their range spreading from Alaska right down into Panama and Cuba! Due to their unique large wingspan requirement they tend gravitate towards areas with open windswept terrain near rivers or coasts where they can soar effortlessly looking for food sources below. Typically they nest in tall trees near water while juveniles will often take refuge in wetlands during their first two years before moving continents once they mature into adults looking for potential mates abroad somewhere else entirely! Their territory can span anywhere from 8-25 square miles (20–65 km2) depending on food availability which makes them quite interesting subjects if you ever get an opportunity observe them nesting nearby! 
Preservation Efforts Unfortunately due to human encroachment into natural habitats coupled with pesticide use over many decades—the bald eagle population started plummeting in numbers greatly across much of its formerly abundant range throughout North America until very recently (2008). Thankfully conservation efforts have now seen populations rebound significantly since then so there’s light at the end of tunnel here after all! So there you have it – some key facts about our majestic national bird – the striking Bald Eagle! Now that you have more knowledge on this subject perhaps it will help protect these avian superstars across our skies while increasing public appreciation of these amazing creatures too!!
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