Fly Like an Eagle: The USA’s Feathered Hero

High in the sky, with wings stretched wide, soars one of the most famous birds in the world — the Bald Eagle. This eagle isn’t really bald at all — it has a snowy white head that shines against its dark brown body. Known as the national bird of the United States, the eagle is a symbol of freedom, strength, and courage. Let’s glide through the clouds together and learn about this incredible creature.

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What Is a Bald Eagle?

The Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is a large bird of prey, also called a raptor. According to Britannica, it is found only in North America, making it extra special to the United States. Unlike some other eagles, its striking white head and tail make it easy to spot against the sky.

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What Do They Look Like?

Bald Eagles are big! Their wingspan can reach up to 8 feet across, which is longer than most people are tall. According to the National Park Service adult eagles have:

• White heads and tails
• Dark brown bodies and wings
• Bright yellow beaks and legs
• Sharp talons for catching prey

Juvenile (young) eagles look different — they are mostly brown with white mottling until they are about 5 years old. That’s when they grow into their famous white-headed look.

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Where Do Eagles Live?

Bald Eagles can be found near large bodies of water across much of North America, from Alaska and Canada down through the United States. They prefer places with tall trees for nesting and wide rivers, lakes, or coastal areas for fishing. According to All About Birds, the best places to spot them are near open water where fish are plentiful.

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What Do They Eat?

Eagles are carnivores, which means they eat meat. Their favourite food is fish — salmon, trout, and other water creatures. They swoop down, snatch fish with their sharp talons, and fly off to enjoy their meal. But they are not picky eaters — they’ll also eat waterfowl, small mammals, or carrion (dead animals) if fish aren’t available.

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Eagle Nests

Bald Eagles build some of the largest nests in the entire bird world. According to the National Wildlife Federation, their nests can be 8 feet across and weigh more than a small car! These nests, called aeries, are usually built high in tall trees near water. Eagles return to the same nest year after year, adding new sticks and making it bigger each season.

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Baby Eagles

Baby eagles are called eaglets. They hatch in spring after both parents take turns sitting on the eggs. At first, eaglets are covered in fluffy grey down, and both the mother and father eagle feed them pieces of fish. It takes about 10–12 weeks before young eagles are ready to fledge — that means spread their wings and fly for the first time.

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How Fast and Strong Are They?

Bald Eagles are powerful fliers. They can soar at speeds of 35–40 miles per hour, and when diving for prey, they can reach close to 100 miles per hour. Their eyesight is four to five times sharper than a human’s, according to National Geographic. That means they can spot a fish from way up in the sky.

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Why Are They Important?

The Bald Eagle is more than just a bird — it’s a symbol. In 1782, it was chosen as the national emblem of the United States, representing freedom and strength. For many Native American tribes, the eagle is also sacred, representing spiritual power and a connection between earth and sky.

But their story hasn’t always been easy. By the mid-20th century, eagle numbers had dropped sharply due to hunting, habitat loss, and chemicals like DDT. Thanks to conservation laws, protection, and the banning of harmful pesticides, the Bald Eagle made a huge comeback. In 2007, it was officially removed from the endangered species list — a true conservation success story. (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service).

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Fun Facts for Kids

• Bald Eagles can live up to 30 years in the wild.
• Their call isn’t as fierce as movies make it seem — in fact, Hollywood often uses hawk cries instead of real eagle calls.
• Eagles are monogamous and often mate for life.
• They use their nests for many years, sometimes decades.
• In winter, hundreds of Bald Eagles can gather in the same area if there’s enough food.

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Talking About Eagles With Kids

Here are some ideas for parents and grandparents to spark curiosity while reading:

• If you had wings like an eagle, where would you fly?
• How would it feel to build a nest as big as a car?
• Why do you think the United States chose the eagle as its national bird?

Looking at photos, videos, or even visiting a sanctuary where Bald Eagles live can bring these lessons to life for little ones.

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Closing: From the Sky to Playtime

The Bald Eagle, proud symbol of the USA, is a bird of courage, vision, and freedom. From its mighty wings to its legendary nests, it inspires awe in people of all ages. Its comeback story shows us how humans and nature can work together to protect what’s precious.

And now, children can bring this story into their own play. Anamalz has created its very own handcrafted Eagle, designed from sustainable wood, rope, and fabric. With bendable wings and a personality as bold as the skies, the Anamalz Eagle celebrates the spirit of the USA’s national bird. It’s loveable, durable, and ready to soar straight into storytime adventures — a keepsake that brings the magic of the American plains and skies right into your playroom.