Bald Eagle - Physical Characteristics
BALD EAGLE PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Bald Eagles are considered one of the largest raptors and since 1782, a national emblem for the United States. Adults are highly recognizable with their distinctive chocolate brown body, white head and tail feathers. They have a large head and a long, yellow, hooked beak. They also have extremely large feet that are bright yellow in appearance. Compared to other raptors, they are one of the most robust measuring between 27-37” in length.
Juvenile Bald Eagles can be a bit tricker to identify. First year Eagles have a brown body with white feathers throughout, appearing in more of a streaked pattern. Their tail is also white molt with a dark band at the tip. Second year Eagles are primarily molted with brown with some white throughout. Their tail is a bit whiter than first year Eagles.
For both, their heads and beaks are not fully developed yet so they are not the traditional white and yellow coloring. First year Eagles have a dark head with a greyish beak which can also appear black under certain lighting conditions. Second year Eagles have a dark splotchy head with dark tips on their beaks. Under the right lighting conditions, peeks of yellow can be seen.
Bald Eagles have a wingspan measuring 80.3” in length, which is quite impressive. Their wingspan is larger than the Great Blue Heron who measures 79.1”. In flight, Bald Eagles stretch out their wings like a flat board and when near tree tops, they can be heard with a slower flapping wingbeat. Bald Eagles are powerful fliers, they are typically seen soaring high in the sky, and due to their size, they are easy to spot.
Of all raptor species, Bald Eagles have a very long lifespan. They can live an average of 20-30 years. Although the predator and prey relationship exist for all species, the Bald Eagle is one at lower risk than many. They are not, however, immune to habitat loss, motor vehicles, climate change, pesticides and methane flares.
Bald Eagles are piscivores and carnivores, which means they eat fish and meat. They have a wide menu selection, and their favorite fish selections include salmon, herring and catfish. They also eat mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates such as crabs. Eagles are also known to eat carrion when available. They are opportunistic and will either seek out food as a predator or scavenge for their next meal. They are savage survivors.
Due to their dietary preferences, Bald Eagles can be found near rivers, lakes, reservoirs, coasts, and forest areas. They are also known to live in open areas and dry land, as long as there is water nearby. They are not typically seen in parks or neighborhoods as they tend to stay away from populated areas. They will, however, choose to live in nature preserves, natural open spaces as well as state parks.
In Colorado, there are several areas with a larger Eagle presence. They prefer larger bodies of water like rivers and reservoirs for hunting and nutrition as well as plenty of conifers and deciduous trees they use to perch for extended periods of time. For their size, it is also easier to hunt in these areas. They can perch high in the treetop as there are many locations that appear like runways for them to swoop down and catch their prey.
Bald Eagle Behaviors & Physical Characteristics
BALD EAGLE BEHAVIORS & PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Bald Eagles typically nest in trees, but they have been known to nest on the side of cliffs as well as the ground. If a solid tree source is available, they will use conifers that protrude above the forest canopy. This allows for flexibility in hunting and flight strategies. They will also nest in deciduous trees and mangroves.
Their nests are extremely large, ranging 5-6’ in diameter and 2-4’ in height. They are typically found between the trunk and the crown of the tree, preferably situated in the middle section providing the most stability. Depending on the support structure of the tree, their nests can be flat like a giant dog bed, or they can be cone shape like a wide mouthed snow cone.
Most Bald Eagles can find a nest site that is quite hidden from human view, as they prefer the cover of the forest canopy to aid with easy flight access and good visibility for predators as well as hunting in the area. If you do suspect a nest, the one way to tell if it’s an Eagle is by its size. They literally look large enough to hold a small human.
Bald Eagles will typically mate for life, although not all will do this. Some will go through the courtship and breeding process with a new mate annually. They do, however, return to their chosen nest site each year as long as the nest is still available, and the area is still ripe for hunting.
With mating, Bald Eagles nest for nine months of the year. Both the male and female Bald Eagle partake in the nest building activities bringing sticks and soft material like grass or moss to fill in any open areas. The bowl is typically lined with soft substances such as downy feathers or fresh leaves. The nest building and redecorating process can take up to three months to complete.
The mating ritual is quite a show to see. With their powerful flight, the male and female fly high in the air, sky dancing. One particular behavior of note is a maneuver where they fly together, lock talons, and cartwheel down locked together and at the very last moment, they let go to avoid crashing.
Once mating has taken place, the female will lay up to three eggs and incubate them for just over a month. Once hatched, it takes upwards of two to three months for the nestlings to become fledglings, where they will begin to explore their surroundings. They stumble around as fledglings for another two to three months, relying on their parents before they are ready to begin an independent lifestyle.
They are very loyal and committed to the nesting process and both the male and the female will take turns incubating eggs for the first few weeks. Both parents also take part in bringing food to the nest. They carefully prepare it and feed it to their young. As the nestlings get older, the parents will start to drop food in the nest so they can begin eating on their own.
Like all raptors in raptorland, Bald Eagles are also constantly harassed by other birds and raptors. This occurs primarily during Spring and Summer at the height of nesting season, but it can happen anytime. Eagles are mobbed by blackbirds and crows and also other raptors. For the powerful Eagle, these small annoyances are simple to stop if necessary, or they can choose to take the high road and let it roll off their back. Check out this cool Eagle vs Red-Tail video here.
It is important not to mistake a lack of engagement as a sign of weakness. The Bald Eagle is one of the most fierce and ferocious predators in the animal kingdom. Due to their savage survival skills, they are predators to other raptors, birds, mammals, insects, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Eagles are willing to feast upon at least a few, if not most of the animals within each species class.
Bald Eagle - Protection and Laws
BALD EAGLE PROTECTION AND LAWS
Bald Eagles are protected by several laws in the United States. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA) enacted in 1940, prohibits anyone without a permit from “taking” Bald or Golden Eagles, including their parts, such as feathers, nests or eggs. This law also protects Eagle nests during nesting and non-nesting season if an Eagle nest is disturbed and causes significant interference.
It further defines “take” as causing harm or disturbance which results in injury, decrease in productivity, interference with breeding, feeding or sheltering, nest abandonment, injury, or death due to substantial interference. Violations of this law result in fines between $100,000 - $200,000.
Bald Eagles are further protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), enacted in 1918. Although the Bald Eagle is no longer protected under the endangered species act, they are protected under the MBTA. This prohibits the “taking” of Bald and Golden eagles including nests and eggs. It also protects them from harm and disturbances. In some states, they have adopted much of the language from the BGEPA law.
The Lacey Act is the oldest on record and was passed in 1900. This act protects Bald Eagles making it a federal offense to take, possess, transport, sell or import or export their nests eggs and parts taken in violation of any state, tribal or US law. Throughout the history of the United States as well as Native American tribes, the Bald Eagle has been revered and protected.
The takeaway here is, don’t mess with an Eagle. It is ok to observe but stay mindful of their behavior. They let us know by the way they are behaving if it’s time to move along. We just need to pay attention. It is exciting to see them up close, believe me I get it, but as humans we tend to hover a bit too long. We need to be respectful of their space because we are in their home.
Another note, just because we have to get closer to see them, for Eagles it is the opposite. They have incredible eyesight and can see our eyes through our binoculars. Like our vehicle sideview mirrors, we, as humans, are the objects that appear closer than we are to the eye of an Eagle.
Bald Eagle - Symbolism
BALD EAGLE SYMBOLISM INTRODUCTION
The Bald Eagle, as a Spirit Animal, embodies principles such as honor, freedom, wisdom, faith, protection, vision, clarity, commitment, loyalty, strength, and courage. Bald Eagles assist individuals in cultivating inner strength and uncovering their intrinsic power. They guide us in respecting ourselves and others, promoting the freedom of thought and expression with integrity.
Furthermore, Bald Eagles serve as navigators through our internal realms, providing the strength and bravery required to traverse the complex nature of a spiritual journey. Whether it involves enhancing our spiritual practices, discovering our faith, or releasing fears and outdated beliefs that no longer benefit us, the Eagle soars above, prepared to guide us on our path.
SYMBOLIC KEYWORDS
· Honor
· Freedom
· Wisdom
· Faith
· Protection
· Vision
· Clarity
· Commitment
· Loyalty
· Strength
· Courage
KEYWORD SYMBOLISM DEFINITIONS
Honor & Freedom
Bald eagles are recognized as a national symbol of freedom in the United States. These raptors, with an impressive wingspan of six feet, have the capability to soar higher than any other bird, often above the clouds. The bald eagle epitomizes freedom in its most authentic form.
With freedom comes the responsibility to choose our own code of honor. We may adhere to some of our traditional values or decide to forge our path independently. With courage, we can live by our personal values even when faced with challenges.
When confronted with difficult individuals or situations, it is easy to succumb to fears and doubts, leading to misrepresentation of facts or dishonesty. It is human nature to seek acceptance as social and communal beings.
However, we must transcend the illusion of fear and let go of concerns about others' opinions or reactions. While we cannot control how people feel or respond, we can manage our reactions and responses. By cultivating inner strength, we can strive to be truthful and consistently choose the honorable path.
Faith & Wisdom
The Bald Eagle has an impressive lifespan, living up to 30 years. Known as the highest-flying raptor, they often perch high in the treetops, providing them with an elevated vantage point. Due to their long life, powerful flight, and habit of perching high in trees, they are often associated with wisdom and keen observation.
The Bald Eagle's high vantage point allows it to see things that are not visible from the ground. With their ability to soar above the clouds, they are connected to lessons related to perspective and insight. They encourage looking beyond surface appearances to understand deeper truths.
In the context of a personal journey, individuals may sometimes be preoccupied with the physical world. It can be challenging to consider possibilities beyond what is immediately visible. Trusting in oneself and maintaining confidence is essential for personal growth.
The Bald Eagle symbolizes inner strength and resilience. It suggests that one can find a way through challenges by rising above fear and learning from experiences. This perspective can provide clarity and direction, fostering a sense of assurance that outcomes will unfold as they should.
Protection
The Bald Eagle boasts an impressive wingspan and exhibits formidable power in flight. They remain steadfast even amidst high winds, maintaining stability and security in adverse conditions.
Symbolically, the eagle is emblematic of protection. It can serve as a guide for our inner journey, offering protection as we navigate our path. The journey may present challenges, and it is easy to become ensnared in past memories.
The Bald Eagle provides guidance to extract lessons from the past while releasing the hold of pain, assisting us in achieving clarity and forging a clear path toward the future.
Bald Eagle - Symbolism
KEYWORD SYMBOLISM DEFINITIONS CONTINUED
Vision & Clarity
Bald Eagles possess exceptional vision and flight capabilities. They have the ability to see more clearly than any other raptor. Even when flying high above the clouds, they can precisely observe the ground below, detecting even the slightest disturbances in their environment.
The Bald Eagle serves as a metaphor for harnessing our vision to look beyond immediate circumstances and comprehend the broader perspective. By elevating our viewpoint, we can identify negative patterns that hinder our growth.
Focusing on clarity, freedom, and strength enables us to overcome fears, eliminate obstacles, and silence persistent distractions. This process facilitates the alignment of heart and mind. When these two aspects work harmoniously, balance is achieved between the internal and external worlds.
Commitment & Loyalty
Typically, raptor nesting season lasts just a few months. However, Bald Eagles nest for a total of nine months. This period involves preparations such as nest building, egg incubation, and nestlings staying in the nest for several months before they are old enough to leave. Even once they leave the nest, they remain close to their parents for several more months until they are independent.
This behavior demonstrates commitment and loyalty. Commitment can be challenging in various aspects of life, including relationships and self-development. Staying loyal and committed often requires significant effort.
Part of this challenge is due to the changes that commitments usually bring. For instance, in personal relationships, one partner may express a desire for a deeper commitment, or starting a new exercise routine or spiritual practice might require adjustments to one's daily habits.
Making a commitment and remaining dedicated requires resolve. The Bald Eagle exemplifies loyalty, spending nine months together to nest and raise offspring. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding, showcasing their dedication.
The Bald Eagle illustrates that it is possible to find the strength and courage to embrace change. By making commitments, setting goals, or embarking on new endeavors, individuals can achieve growth and progress.
Strength & Courage
Bald Eagles exhibit remarkable diversity in their diet; although they prefer fish, they will also consume mammals, birds, and carrion. These eagles inhabit a wide range of environments, and even in nature, there is constant change within their surroundings.
Natural forces such as fires, storms, and winds can disrupt habitats and nesting sites, necessitating Bald Eagles to swiftly relocate and establish new homes. As they migrate to new territories, they must identify new hunting grounds to meet their nutritional needs.
The Bald Eagle's capacity to adapt to changing conditions exemplifies strength and courage. They inspire us to release fears, doubts, and outdated beliefs that impede our growth. They guide us to cultivate inner resilience and fortitude, enabling us to embrace change in our lives.
By accepting change, we facilitate the path to transformation. Although this process can sometimes be painful, it ultimately leads to growth and renewal. A new beginning awaits at the end of this journey.
Bald Eagle - Spirit Animal Symbolism
SPIRIT ANIMAL
As a Spirit Animal, the Bald Eagle is believed to provide guidance and wisdom during one's spiritual journey. They are seen to offer protection and assist individuals in overcoming fears, insecurities, and outdated beliefs. The Bald Eagle is thought to help individuals appreciate the significance of each person and experience in their lives, guiding them towards understanding and wisdom through life's lessons.
Wisdom and Symbolic Sight
The Bald Eagle has an impressive lifespan, ranging from 20 to 30 years. This longevity is notable given the challenges of living in the wild. Although the Bald Eagle faces fewer predators compared to other species, it must still navigate human-induced threats. Through their extensive history on Earth, Bald Eagles gain significant wisdom from their experiences.
Bald Eagles are emblematic of wisdom, strength, and inner power. They inspire individuals to cultivate inner resilience and endurance as they navigate their life's journey. These majestic birds teach us that every experience provides an opportunity to learn, grow, and evolve spiritually.
Adverse situations, whether they pertain to events, circumstances, or personal relationships, often present significant challenges. It is common to become fixated on questions like "how could this person do that to me?" or "why is this life-altering event happening to me?" Such thought patterns can lead to a "why me" mentality, making it difficult to move forward.
Breaking free from these negative mental loops requires recognizing them for what they truly are: fears, insecurities, and negative belief patterns. While these issues may feel immense, like the size of an Eagle, in proper context, they are as small as a Gnat.
The Bald Eagle serves as a powerful reminder that we possess the inner strength, fortitude, and wisdom necessary to overcome the fears that occupy our minds. By embarking on a journey of self-awareness, we can identify the thoughts and behaviors that inhibit our healing and growth.
As we embrace our experiences and the individuals connected to us symbolically, we can release ourselves from the "why me" mentality and instead consider what lessons these experiences offer. Asking questions such as "what is this experience here to teach me?" or "what is the lesson?" allows us to move beyond blame, judgment, and the urge to control outcomes.
By adopting this symbolic perception, we can see how our actions, inactions, choices, or lack thereof have shaped our realities. This perspective enables us to let go of the past's hold on us, apply the lessons learned, and find the freedom to live a balanced and more peaceful life.
Honor, Strength and Courage
Bald Eagles symbolize freedom, honor, strength, courage, and wisdom. They fly higher than any other bird with precise vision, symbolizing seeing beyond the physical world. They teach us to honor ourselves and others.
When dealing with difficult people or situations, it's easy to blame and judge. This defensive behavior stems from fear. Choosing faith over fear prevents damage to relationships and personal growth. Relationships and experiences, whether positive or negative, provide lessons for our journey.
Inner struggles often stem from dissatisfaction in relationships or jobs. Ignoring these signs keeps us stuck. Change is hard because we're creatures of habit, clinging to what's familiar. Evaluate current circumstances by asking how they make you feel; if the situation or person does not value freedom, honesty, integrity, and ethics, it's time to move on.
Remaining out of fear leads to misery and stagnation, which can potentially cause physical illness. The Bald Eagle teaches us to embrace change with strength and courage. Letting go of the past is liberating, despite momentary discomfort. As we build inner strength, resilience, and maintain our center in difficult situations, we embrace the wisdom that every person and experience serves to teach us our Soul Life Lessons.
Bald Eagle - Totem & Power Animal Symbolism
TOTEM ANIMAL
For those born under the Bald Eagle totem, they are strong willed, grounded, disciplined, wise, loyal, honorable, and brave. They are also adventurous and savor each day like it’s the last, making sure to spread their wings and fly with every available opportunity.
Eagle individuals interact with purpose and avoid idle chatter. Their intense focus benefits them in careers and education, helping them achieve tasks and goals.
They take pride in their integrity, often facing judgment and rejection but remaining steadfast on their path. Eagle people stay grounded physically, emotionally, and spiritually. They face adversity courageously, keeping a clear head to find resolutions.
POWER ANIMAL
The Bald Eagle, as a Power Animal, serves as a significant ally in our journey by providing guidance to achieve clarity, focus, strength, and courage. It acts as a spiritual guide in our inner exploration, assisting us in uncovering wisdom from our past, enabling us to live fully in the present, and preparing us for the future.
Clarity and Focus
Challenging circumstances can arise, such as a car breaking down or feeling nervous about an upcoming job interview. It is easy to be consumed by thoughts of uncertainty, making it difficult to determine a clear path forward.
The Bald Eagle symbolizes clarity, focus, strength, and wisdom. With their keen sight, they can inspire us to clear our minds and let go of unproductive thoughts. By achieving mental clarity, we can concentrate on the issue at hand and find a solution. Overcoming challenges can enhance our inner strength and wisdom through experience.
Inner World Journey
The Bald Eagle can act as a guide on our journey through our inner landscape. They assist us in navigating the complexities of our past to identify and address memories that cause fear and pain. By working through these wounds, we can find the strength to release their hold on us, creating space in our mental and emotional landscape to embrace the present moment.
As we discard old behaviors and beliefs and begin to live authentically, the Bald Eagle can help guide us in discovering our future path. With their ability to soar higher than any other bird, they embody powerful energy and serve as a symbol of divine guidance. When our intentions are honorable and pure, they will lead us precisely where we need to go. We simply need to trust and follow their lead.
Bald Eagle - Historic, Cultural, Religious Symbolism
Native American
In Native American spiritual tradition, Bald Eagles are highly regarded and seen as sacred creatures. In many traditions, they represent wisdom, courage and bravery.
The feathers of a Bald Eagle are also symbolic, representing honor and respect. These feathers have been used in healing and awarded to those who fought great battles. It is said that the Bald Eagle feather carries the essence of their soul.
There are still many Native American tribes today that have the permits necessary to possess Eagle feathers. They are used with honor in rituals and cultural practices.
Celtic
In Celtic spiritual traditions, the Bald Eagle symbolizes connection to the spiritual realm. With their ability to soar high in the sky and their wingspan being one of the largest, they guide and protect traveling souls into the next phase of their journey. Bald Eagles are also seen as a direct connection to the Divine and the source of spiritual wisdom and guidance.
Ancient Egypt
In Egyptian spiritual traditions, with their soaring height, clear sight and broad wings, the Bald Eagle symbolizes strength, protection and guardianship. In Egyptian hieroglyphics, the Eagle symbolizes the essence of the soul and life representing the soul’s journey in the afterlife.
Far Eastern
In many Far Eastern spiritual traditions, the Bald Eagle symbolizes good luck, fortune and commitment. They are often used in imagery with their wings extended, facing forward to depict the good fortune that lies ahead. With their enormous wingspan, they are also seen as protectors and are frequently used as amulets to protect people and their spaces.
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