Feather Identifier app iconFeather Identifier
Bald Eagle (American Eagle)
Contour body feather / covert

Bald Eagle (American Eagle)

Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Accipitriformes, Family: Accipitridae, Genus: Haliaeetus, Species: H. leucocephalus

Family: Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)

Shape
Symmetrical vane with a broadly rounded tip
Size
Approximately 6 to 8 inches in length, characteristic of a large covert or body contour feather from a mature bald eagle
Rarity
Common in suitable habitats, having made a remarkable recovery from near-extinction
Learn more about Bald Eagle (American Eagle) in the encyclopedia →

Found a feather like this?

Identify any feather from a photo, free.

Identify a feather

Description

Large and majestic raptor with a distinctive white head and tail contrasting with a dark brown body and wings

Colour & Pattern

Striking gradient featuring a brilliant white base that transitions smoothly into a rich, dark brown or nearly black tip

Barb Structure

Pennaceous upper vane transitioning into a distinctly plumulaceous (fluffy) downy base with barbicels

Texture & Surface

Smooth and firm along the upper dark vane, becoming soft and downy at the proximal base

Key Features

Distinct bicolor transition from a snowy white base to a dark brown-black tip on a robust white shaft

Habitat

Found near large bodies of open water with old-growth trees for nesting and an abundant food supply

Geographic Range

North America, ranging from Alaska and Canada down through the United States and into northern Mexico

Ecological Role

Apex predator helping to maintain the health and balance of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems

Similar Species

Golden Eagle, though adult golden eagles lack the pure white feather bases and head plumage

Interesting Facts

Bald eagles build the largest nests of any North American bird, sometimes weighing over two tons

Condition Notes

Good condition with intact barbs and a clean, undamaged rachis

Bald Eagle (American Eagle) | Feather Identifier