Bald Eagle
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Accipitriformes, Family: Accipitridae, Genus: Haliaeetus, Species: H. leucocephalus
Family: Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Allies)
- Shape
- Highly asymmetrical vane, typical of leading-edge flight feathers; the narrow outer vane is designed for aerodynamic lift. The tip is pointed with a noticeable emargination (notching) on the leading edge to reduce drag and prevent stalling during soaring.
- Size
- Estimated at approximately 15-18 inches (38-46 cm) in length. This is consistent with the large wingspan of an eagle, where outermost primaries are the longest feathers on the bird.
- Rarity
- Common in appropriate habitat. While once endangered, they have made a significant recovery; however, finding a shed primary of this size in good condition remains a notable occurrence.
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Description
This feather belongs to the iconic Bald Eagle, a massive raptor with a wingspan of 6-7.5 feet. Adults are known for their white heads and tails, but this feather's mottled brown-and-white pattern identifies it as a sub-adult. Young eagles spend their first 4-5 years in varying stages of brown and white before achieving the classic adult look. They are powerful fliers and opportunistic scavengers.
Colour & Pattern
Bicolor pattern: the distal (tip) half is a dark chocolate brown, while the proximal (base) half is a creamy white. This 'dirty' white and brown mottling is characteristic of a sub-adult Bald Eagle (Basic II or III plumage), roughly 2-3 years old.
Barb Structure
Densely interlocked pennaceous structure throughout most of the vane for structural integrity during flight; minimal plumulaceous (fluffy) barbs at the very base. Barbs are stiff and resilient.
Texture & Surface
Very stiff and rigid with a smooth, slightly matte finish. The surface is semi-waterproof due to preen oils, and the leading edge is exceptionally sharp and firm to cut through air.
Key Features
Large size (over 14 inches), extreme vane asymmetry, bicolored dark brown and white transition, and a very thick, sturdy rachis.
Habitat
Typically found near large bodies of open water (lakes, rivers, coastal regions) with abundant fish and tall trees for nesting and roosting.
Geographic Range
Native to North America, ranging from Alaska and Canada down through the contiguous United States to northern Mexico. Many populations are migratory, moving south if water freezes over.
Ecological Role
Apex predator and scavenger. They play a vital role in cleaning up carrion and maintaining fish populations. They are a primary indicator species for environmental health (notably the DDT crisis).
Similar Species
Golden Eagle (feathers usually more uniformly dark or with white at the very base, not halfway up), Osprey (smaller, different banding), or California Condor (significantly larger and darker).
Interesting Facts
Bald Eagles build the largest nests of any North American bird; one nest was recorded at 9.5 feet wide and 20 feet deep. Their eyesight is roughly 4-8 times stronger than a human's.
Condition Notes
Good condition. There is some minor 'zipping' loss where barbs have separated on the trailing edge, likely due to natural wear or handled stress, but the structure remains intact.