We spotted many bald eagles along the trail and observed at least one in every state we paddled. Once on the endangered species list, their populations have increased greatly over the last 40-years with estimates of well over 100,000 birds living in the United States and Canada today.
The bald eagle isn’t actually bald, the name is a descriptive term for the white-feathered plumage that adorn its head, a physical attribute of mature birds usually over the age of four. Until them, bald eagles exhibit a mottled look with streaks of black and brown interspersed with lighter colors. An opportunistic feeder, they survive mostly on fish but will pick up a meal where and when they can, sometimes stealing other animals kills.
An average bald eagle weighs about 10 lbs., has a wingspan ranging from 6 to 7 feet, is capable of flying 40 miles per hour on average and can dive at a speed of 100 mph when going after prey. Its curved beak and large talons make it a very efficient hunter, especially for small animals and fish, and it can carry up to 15 lbs. if required.
As the largest raptor in North America they prefer tall, sturdy trees for nest building, and they can build some very big nests; some have weighed in at a ton or more. They often build nests 100 feet off the ground. It’s the safest place for their young, and the higher the elevation the easier it is to spot their prey.
