The bald eagle is a large bird of prey from the Accipitridae family. The bald eagle is the heraldic bird of the USA and can therefore be seen on its seal.
The population of the bald eagle, which originally occurred in large parts of North America, had been declining since the 19th century. This is due to shooting, the use of DDT and habitat changes. The first legal decrees for the protection of the bald eagle were passed in the early 20th century, which were tightened in the following years. After DDT was banned, populations recovered. Bald eagles are now found again throughout their original range and populations have recovered to the point where they are no longer considered endangered.
Along with the California condor, bald eagles are the largest birds of prey in North America. Their body size is 70-90 cm, wingspan 1.80-2.50 m and weight 2.5-6.3 kg. Proportions and plumage colouration are very similar to the white-tailed eagle, but the colouration of the bald eagle is more contrasting. The head, neck, tail, under and upper tail coverts are white, body and wings are dark brown. Feet, beak, wax skin and iris of the eyes are light yellow.