EAGLE
Meet a Real Eagle
Cool Facts:
Eagles have incredible eyesight, up to four times sharper than a human's! This allows them to spot tiny things from high above.
Their powerful wings can reach up to 8 feet across, allowing them to soar effortlessly for long distances.
Eagles have strong, curved talons, but also surprisingly gentle for holding delicate objects like twigs for building their nests.
Where They Live:
Eagles are found on almost every continent except Antarctica! They prefer open areas with high vantage points like mountains, cliffs, and tall trees. Different eagle species have specific habitats, with some living near coasts and others preferring forests.
Where They Sleep:
Eagles are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. They sleep at night in large nests built high up in trees or on cliffs. These nests, called aeries, are reused and expanded upon year after year, becoming quite impressive structures over time.
Home Life and Social:
Eagles are typically monogamous, meaning they mate for life. They work together to raise their young, called eaglets. Parents take turns hunting for food and protecting the nest. They communicate with each other through loud calls and body language.
Friendships:
While eagles mate for life, they wouldn't be considered social creatures. However, they do cooperate with their partner in raising young and defending their territory.
What They Do for Fun:
Eagles spend their days soaring through the sky, searching for food and exploring their vast territories. They enjoy riding air currents and performing majestic aerial displays, sometimes playing with sticks or other objects in the air. Young eaglets, once they are strong enough, practice flying skills through playful chases and dives.
Size of the Animal:
There are many different eagle species, ranging in size. The golden eagle, for example, can have a wingspan of up to 8 feet and weigh up to 15 pounds. Some smaller eagles, like the booted eagle, have a wingspan of around 5 feet.
Power Level:
Eagles are powerful birds! Their strong wings allow them to soar for hours and cover vast distances.
Life Span:
In the wild, eagles can live for a very long time, with some species reaching up to 30 years old! In captivity, with proper care, they can live even longer.
First Known to Humans:
Eagle fossils have been found dating back millions of years. Early humans likely encountered eagles very early on, as these magnificent birds would have been a common sight soaring through the skies.