Bald Eagle - The American Bald Eagle can be seen soaring in the sky,
symbolizing freedom and democracy. In 1782, the Continental Congress
chose the Bald Eagle as the National Bird of the United States of
America. The massive yellow bill is almost as large as the eagle's
head. The sharp, hooked bill of the eagle is thick and powerful.
They have large, intense yellow eyes. The eyesight is seven to nine times
better than a human's sight. The Bald Eagle has a snow white head and
neck with a white tail, making identification easier. The body of the
bird has dark brown plumage. The young eagle, however, does not get it's
white feathers until they are five to seven years old. These eagles
prefer a diet of fish, but will adapt to other food sources when food is
scarce.
Bald Eagle egg.
Golden Eagle - The Golden Eagle is a large, majestic bird. They
glide, soaring with flat wings, only with wing movement occasionally.
Birds of prey use natural currents of air to gain altitude called
thermals. They spread their wings and soar on top of the rising hot
air. This amazing flier travels fast enough to catch grouse and other
birds in the air and hunts rabbits, prairie dogs and squirrels on the
ground. The eagle grips the prey with feet stretched out in
front. The Golden Eagle has dark brown plumage, a golden splash on
the back of the head and feathered legs. The wingspan is about 7
feet. This bird of prey builds a large nest in a tall tree or on a
cliff, often returning to the same nest year after year. They will
carry away old eggshells and food debris to protect their chicks.
Then they add to the nest, making it larger every year. The female usually
lays two eggs, off-white with brown blotches. The
incubation time is about 45 days.
Copyright 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009,
2010, 2011 Dee Cyboron
All Rights Reserved
You may not use photographs. If you would like to use photographs,
please e-mail zookingdoms for permission first.
