
Bald Eagle (American Eagle)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Accipitriformes, Family: Accipitridae, Genus: Haliaeetus, Species: Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Family: Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
- Shape
- Asymmetrical vane with a gently curved, tapered tip typical of a large soaring raptor's primary flight feather
- Size
- Approximately 12 to 14 inches long, robust and broad, consistent with adult Bald Eagle primaries which typically range from 10 to 16 inches
- Rarity
- Common in suitable wetland and coastal habitats following significant conservation recovery, though protected and strictly regulated
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Description
A magnificent large black flight feather from an adult Bald Eagle, featuring the unmistakable deep dark coloration of mature wing plumage, designed for powerful and majestic flight
Colour & Pattern
Solid, deep black or very dark brownish-black coloration throughout the visible vane portion, with no barring or mottling, indicating an adult contour/flight feather
Barb Structure
Strongly pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs and well-developed barbicels forming a firm, durable vane; no afterfeather
Texture & Surface
Stiff, smooth, and semi-glossy texture with high rigidity along the vane and a durable, waterproof surface designed for efficient soaring and diving
Key Features
Solid deep black/dark brown coloration, large robust size, strong asymmetrical shape, and thick rigid rachis characteristic of large raptor primaries
Habitat
Near large bodies of open water—such as lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and coastal areas—with an abundant food supply and old-growth trees for nesting and perching
Geographic Range
North America, ranging from Alaska and Canada through the contiguous United States down to northern Mexico
Ecological Role
Apex avian predator playing a crucial role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems by preying on fish, waterfowl, and scavenging carrion
Similar Species
Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), which often has brownish or golden tones at the base, and large vultures like the Turkey Vulture which have different shaft structures
Interesting Facts
Bald Eagles can reach speeds of up to 100 mph during a diving swoop and build the largest tree nests recorded for any animal species, sometimes weighing over two tons
Condition Notes
Excellent condition with intact barbs, clean edges, and no visible fraying, fault bars, or sun bleaching