Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
(Click on picture to enlarge)
© San Antonio, Texas - Spring 2005
Field Marks: 40" in height.
After the California Condor, the Bald Eagle is North America's largest raptor.
Adults have a white head and tail. Bald Eagles have long, broad wings held
flat while soaring. They are found mostly along seacoasts, large rivers
and lakes. They feed primarily on fish, but occasionally will take carrion,
small mammals, and waterfowl. Their nest, as seen in these pictures, is
mammoth. Bald Eagles will use the same nest for many years. The Bald
Eagles in the above pictures were located between Burnet and Llano, Texas about
75-100 yards off of the state highway. It takes Bald Eagles approximately
4-5 years to reach adulthood. Adulthood is recognized by the white head
and tail.
Voice: A harsh, creaking crackle,
kleek-kik-ik-ik-ik-ik or a lower kak-kak-kak.
Where found: Alaska, Canada, to s.
U.S.
Texas:
Rare local resident near coast. These are breeding in Central Texas not
far from Buchanan Lake.
Habitat: Shores of rivers, lakes,
coast.
Nest: Bulky platform of sticks in tall tree. Eggs (2-3) white.