There are two recognized subspecies of bald eagle with the larger subspecies, H. l. alascanus, being larger than the southern, nominate subspecies, H. l. leucocephalus.
Tag: Bald Eagle
The bald eagle is an opportunistic, carnivorous forager native to North America. This large raptor prefers to reside near large bodies of water and is named for the iconic white coloring of its head contrasting with the dark plumage of its body. The bald eagle has been the national symbol of the U.S. since 1782 and was an endangered species until 1978.
Bald Eagle
Bald eagles are found throughout North America and prefer areas near large bodies of water such as sea coasts, coastal estuaries, and inland lakes and rivers, typically residing within 3 km. of water.
Bald Eagle
The bald eagle gets its common and scientific names from the distinctive appearance of the adult's head as mature coloration is reached in the eagle's fifth year.