Eagles are the ultimate symbol of power and freedom in the animal kingdom. You likely picture them soaring high above the mountains with a fierce scream. However, their real voice is actually a tiny whistle. Furthermore, they perform a death-defying dance to impress their mates. They build nests that weigh tons and can even swim if necessary. Let’s explore the life of these apex predators.
Eagles
Hollywood directors usually fake the bald eagle’s mighty scream in movies. In reality, these birds make a weak, high-pitched whistling sound. Therefore, sound editors dub over their voices with the call of a red-tailed hawk.
A bald eagle can actually swim if it catches a heavy fish. It uses its wings to perform a movement similar to the butterfly stroke. Thus, it paddles to the shore rather than letting go of its prize.
Golden eagles in Mongolia are strong enough to hunt wolves. Traditionally, nomadic hunters train these birds to protect their herds from dangerous predators. Consequently, the bird becomes a fearless guardian of the steppe.
Harpy eagles possess claws that are longer than the claws of a grizzly bear. Specifically, their rear talons can measure up to four inches in length. This massive weaponry allows them to snatch sloths directly from the trees.
Mating pairs perform a terrifying ritual known as the death spiral. They lock their talons together high in the sky and plummet toward the earth. Romanticly, they only separate just before they hit the ground.
Their eyes have two focal points rather than one like humans. This feature acts like a zoom lens on a camera. As a result, they can spot a tiny rabbit from over two miles away.
Eagles have a third eyelid called a nictitating membrane. This translucent layer sweeps across the eye to keep it moist and clean. Therefore, they can blink without ever losing sight of their prey.
Some species drop tortoises from great heights to crack their shells. They fly high and release the reptile onto hard rocks below. Legend says the playwright Aeschylus died when an eagle dropped a tortoise on his head.
The African crowned eagle specializes in hunting monkeys. It is the only raptor known to attack humans occasionally to defend its nest. Thus, it is considered one of the most dangerous birds in Africa.
A bald eagle nest can weigh as much as a small car. One record-breaking nest in Florida weighed over two tons and measured ten feet wide. Clearly, they add new sticks to their homes every single year.
Their grip strength is roughly ten times stronger than a human hand. A bald eagle can exert 400 pounds of pressure per square inch. Consequently, no fish can escape once those talons lock into place.
They do not actually become bald as they age. The name comes from an old English word “piebald,” which means white-headed. Thus, the name describes their feather pattern rather than a lack of feathers.
Steller’s sea eagles are the heaviest eagles on the planet. These giants can weigh up to 20 pounds, which is massive for a flying bird. They live in the freezing coastal waters of Russia and Japan.
Most eagles mate for life and stay faithful to one partner. They often return to the exact same nest each year to raise their young. However, they will find a new mate quickly if their partner dies.
They can fly at altitudes of up to 10,000 feet. Ideally, they use thermal currents to soar without flapping their wings. This energy-saving technique allows them to patrol vast territories effortlessly.
