Arkansas has been graced by the presence of two out of the four eagle species found in North America. These magnificent birds, known as the Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle, hold a significant place in the realm of the skies, admired by humans both mentally and physically.
The human connection with eagles is profound, as we have regarded them as symbols of power and strength throughout history. They have aided us in hunting endeavors, serving as valuable companions.
However, our treatment of these awe-inspiring creatures has not always been benevolent. Regrettably, we have persecuted them and devastated their habitats to the brink of extinction for several species.
It is astonishing to note that eagles possess the ability to carry up to four times their own weight. Such strength is a testament to their remarkable nature.
Across the globe, there exist 60 species of eagles, making them some of the largest avian beings. Typically, females exceed males in size, showcasing their majestic stature.
If you hold an interest in birds of prey, I recommend exploring comprehensive guides on hawks and vultures in Arkansas. Additionally, you can witness the captivating spectacle of eagle nesting through live cameras, all while uncovering fascinating facts about the Bald Eagle.
This guide provides valuable insights into the various types of Eagles found in Arkansas, based on avibase and data contributed by passionate bird watchers on ebird. These sources offer authentic information on the best times to spot these magnificent birds.
Arkansas is home to 2 Eagle Species
1. The Bald Eagle
In the skies of Arkansas, one can observe the presence of Bald Eagles throughout the year, with their numbers notably increasing during the winter months, particularly from November to January. Reports from bird watchers indicate that they appear in 3% of summer checklists and 9% of winter checklists in the state.
The Bald Eagle, recognized far and wide as a formidable bird of prey, exhibits a distinctive appearance. Its regal features include a white head, piercing yellow eyes, and a sizable hooked yellow beak. The body boasts a rich chocolate brown hue, while the legs are adorned with a vibrant shade of yellow, accompanied by impressive talons.
Female Bald Eagles closely resemble their male counterparts, albeit being approximately 25% larger. Juveniles display dark brown heads and bodies, often adorned with patches or streaks of white until they reach maturity around their fifth year.
- Scientific Name: Haliaeetus leucocephalus
- Length: 34 – 43 inches (86 – 109 cm)
- Weight: 168 ounces (4761 g)
- Wingspan: 72 – 96 inches (183 – 244 cm)
Bald Eagles predominantly breed in Canada, undertaking migrations to the United States for the winter season. However, some individuals opt to remain in specific regions throughout the year, particularly in coastal areas.
Bald Eagles tend to inhabit wetland environments during their breeding season, seeking out open bodies of water teeming with fish. For nesting, roosting, and perching, they require tall, mature trees with expansive visibility, maintaining an open structure that enables them to survey the forest floor. Proximity to water, especially during nesting periods, is crucial.
During winter, Bald Eagles flock to areas abundant in perches surrounding unfrozen water sources with ample fish populations. When unfrozen water is scarce, they congregate in open habitats with medium-sized mammals, such as prairies and meadows.
Bald Eagles display opportunistic feeding behavior, adapting to the available resources in their surroundings. Fish, particularly larger varieties like trout and salmon, constitute their preferred prey. They may catch fish themselves or pilfer them from other birds. Additionally, they occasionally consume carrion, including deceased fish.
Medium to large-sized birds such as ducks, herons, owls, and geese are also part of their diet. In the winter months, when fishing becomes less fruitful, Bald Eagles turn their attention to mammals. They initially target weakened, dying, or young prey, hunting rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, beavers, and even deer fawns.
It is worth noting that the call of the Bald Eagle, often associated with its impressive size, takes the form of a surprisingly high-pitched whistle, deviating from expectations.
Nests constructed by Bald Eagles are large and robust, designed to withstand their considerable size and weight. Composed of sticks, grass, moss, and downy feathers, these structures measure approximately 6 feet in diameter and 4 feet in height. The male procures the materials, while the female expertly assembles them.
Notably, the nests of Bald Eagles hold the distinction of being the largest among all bird species in North America.
In the wild, female Bald Eagles typically lay one to three eggs per year, with the potential to lay up to seven eggs in captivity. The parents share the responsibility of incubating the eggs for approximately thirty-five days. While one attends to the eggs, the other embarks on hunting expeditions to provide sustenance for their partner.
Fun Fact: Since 1782, the Bald Eagle has been the national symbol of America. Interestingly, the term “bald” in its name does not refer to its lack of feathers. In olden times, “bald” meant “white,” signifying its distinct white head and tail feathers.
2. The Golden Eagle
While sightings of Golden Eagles in Arkansas are relatively rare, they have been observed during the winter months, from mid-September to April.
Golden Eagles hold the distinction of being the most widely distributed eagles globally. Their crown and nape exhibit a captivating golden-brown hue, particularly striking when illuminated by the perfect light.
Their bodies are adorned in a darker shade of brown, complemented by pale flight feathers. Eye color varies from light yellow to dark brown. These eagles possess a yellow cere, which is the fleshy skin on their beak that connects to the forehead. The tip of their bill boasts a dark shade.
Although adults share a similar appearance, female Golden Eagles surpass males in size. Juveniles bear resemblances as well, albeit with a darker coloration, occasionally appearing black on their backs. Furthermore, they display white patches on the undersides of their wings and feature white accents on their tails.
- Scientific Name: Aquila chrysaetos
- Length: 27 – 38 inches (69 – 97 cm)
- Weight: 160 ounces (4534 g)
- Wingspan: 72 – 96 inches (183 – 244 cm)
Golden Eagles that breed in Canada and Alaska migrate southwards during winter, reaching the United States and northern Mexico. However, Golden Eagles residing in western U.S. states remain in their habitats throughout the year.
Golden Eagles can be found in mountainous habitats, soaring high above the treeline. They also inhabit canyons, cliffs along riversides, and bluffs during nesting periods. Typically, they prefer to avoid areas with high human activity.
For those who wish to gain a bird’s-eye view of a Golden Eagle’s daily activities, a video capturing their movements from lofty heights is available, provided one does not suffer from acrophobia.
As birds of prey, Golden Eagles primarily target small to medium-sized animals, including rabbits, prairie dogs, and hares. Occasionally, they even hunt and overpower larger prey such as cranes, swans, and domestic livestock. Their hunting technique often involves teamwork, with one eagle chasing down the prey until exhaustion, allowing the other to swoop in for the final strike.
Golden Eagles vocalize primarily during the breeding season when chicks beg for food, and parents respond accordingly. Otherwise, they maintain a relatively quiet demeanor, emitting occasional high-pitched whistled calls.
Nests of Golden Eagles are typically situated at elevated locations, such as cliffs. However, they also construct nests in trees or artificial structures like observation towers, nesting platforms, and even windmills. These elevated positions afford the parents a broad vantage point over their nesting and hunting territories.
The construction of Golden Eagle nests takes between one to three months, utilizing sticks and plant materials. Aromatic leaves are often incorporated to ward off insects and other pests. These nests serve as long-term abodes, growing in size as the adult eagles continually add materials to reinforce them.
In the wild, female Golden Eagles lay one to three eggs, with both parents taking turns in incubation, which lasts approximately forty-one to forty-five days. The hatching process itself takes approximately 37 hours.
Fun Fact: The Golden Eagle, alongside the Rough-legged Hawk and Ferruginous Hawk, is among the few American birds of prey that possess feathers extending down their legs to their toes.