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Bald Eagle in flight

The bald eagle is one of North America’s most iconic raptors, known for its powerful presence, remarkable nesting behavior, and long-term pair bonds. Its habits and mating rituals are among the most studied of any bird of prey, revealing a species that is both fiercely territorial and deeply cooperative with its chosen partner. Overview and Habits Bald eagles thrive near large bodies of water—rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and coastal areas—where fish are abundant. They are opportunistic feeders, taking fish, waterfowl, small mammals, and carrion when available. Their daily habits include soaring on thermals, perching near hunting grounds, and defending territories from intruding eagles. Adults can live up to 30–40 years in the wild, and they maintain large territories that they return to year after year. Their nests, called aeries, are among the largest of any bird on Earth. A pair may use the same nest for many years, adding new material each season until it can weigh hundreds of pounds. Nesting sites are typically in tall trees or cliffs with a clear view of the surrounding area. Mates and Courtship Bald eagles are typically monogamous, forming long-term pair bonds that often last for life. However, if one partner dies—or if an intruding eagle successfully challenges a resident bird—new pairings can form. Courtship includes spectacular aerial displays such as cartwheeling, where the pair locks talons and spirals toward the ground before separating. Mating itself occurs on a branch or at the nest, involving what is known as a “cloacal kiss,” where the male and female briefly press their cloacas together to transfer sperm. Eagles reach sexual maturity around 4–6 years of age, at which point they develop the classic white head and tail. Both parents share responsibilities: nest building, incubation, and feeding the eaglets until they fledge. Breeding Season Timing varies by region. In northern states, breeding begins in late winter, while in southern states—such as Florida—courtship can begin as early as late summer. After mating, the female typically lays 1–3 eggs, which hatch after about 35 days. Both adults fiercely defend the nest and territory during this period. Sources • American Eagle Foundation – Bald Eagle Behavior American Eag... • Wild Bird Watching – Bald Eagle nesting, feeding, and mating habits Wild-Bird-Wa... • Biology Insights – Bald eagle mating season and regional timing biologyinsig... • Know Animals – Age of sexual maturity and breeding habits knowanimals.com • The World’s Rarest Birds – Courtship and mating behavior, monogamy theworldsrar... https://hoosierbird.com/ @hoosier_bird #Bird Watching #Bird Calls #Bird Songs #Bird Photography #Nature Photography #Birding #Nature Photography