Important Facts For Prelims
Bald Eagle
- 29 Jun 2023
- 2 min read
Why in News?
The American bald eagle (National bird of the US since 1782) was taken off the endangered species list in 2007. Since then, their population has steadily increased, which is considered as one of the biggest success stories in the history of conservation.
- A 2021 report by the US Fish and Wildlife Service revealed that the number of bald eagles in the wild has quadrupled since 2009.
What is there to Know About Bald Eagles?
- About:
- The scientific name of the bald eagle is Haliaeetus leucocephalus.
- Habitat:
- The bald eagle's natural range covers most of North America, including most of Canada, all of the continental US, and northern Mexico.
- It is the only sea eagle endemic to North America.
- Characteristics:
- The average life span of bald eagles is 20 to 30 years.
- Bald eagles build their nests at the very top of tall trees so the eggs will be safe.
- Female bald eagles are a bit bigger than the males.
- Feeding Pattern:
- Besides live fish, bald eagles also prey on other birds, small mammals, snakes, turtles, and crabs, and they readily eat carrion (decaying flesh of dead animals).
- Protection Status:
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Note: The ban on Dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT) in 1972 by the US was a crucial step towards protecting the bald eagle and other wildlife species from the harmful effects of this pesticide.
- DDT is an insecticide used in agriculture. Some countries outside the US still use DDT to control mosquitoes that spread malaria.
