1. Size:
- Length: 28-38 inches (71-96 centimeters)
- Wingspan: 5-7.5 feet (1.5-2.3 meters)
- Weight: 8-14 pounds (3.6-6.3 kilograms)
2. Plumage:
- Adult bald eagles have a dark brown body, with white head and tail.
- The white feathers on the head and tail are distinctive and give the bird its name.
- The rest of the body is covered in dark brown feathers.
- Immature bald eagles have mostly brown plumage with varying degrees of white on the head and tail.
3. Beak:
- The beak of the bald eagle is large, hooked, and yellow in color.
- It is used for tearing and ripping prey.
4. Eyes:
- Bald eagles have sharp eyesight, and their eyes are a deep shade of brown.
5. Wings:
- Bald eagles have broad and powerful wings that allow them to soar and glide.
- Their wingspan can reach up to 7.5 feet, making them one of the widest wingspans of any North American bird.
6. Tail:
- The tail of the bald eagle is long, white, and wedge-shaped.
- It is primarily used for steering and balancing during flight.
7. Legs and Talons:
- Bald eagles have strong, yellow-colored legs and feet equipped with sharp talons.
- Talons are used for gripping and capturing prey.
8. Sexual Dimorphism:
- Female bald eagles are generally larger than males, although both sexes look similar in appearance.
9. Longevity:
- Bald eagles have a long lifespan and can live for up to 30 years in the wild.
10. Geographical Variation:
- Bald eagles have slightly different physical characteristics based on their geographical location.
- For example, some subspecies may have slightly different shades of brown plumage.
The bald eagle's physical characteristics and majestic appearance make it a symbol of strength, power, and freedom. It is a remarkable bird that has captured the imagination and admiration of people throughout history.