Eagle identification is a particularly popular topic of interest among bird enthusiasts. The similarities in size, shape, and plumage of different eagle species make it daunting to distinguish the eagles on observation.
However, by understanding the basic anatomy of these majestic birds and keeping a keen eye on them, you can successfully identify the common eagle species. The variations in their plumage and behavior patterns along with a few other physical characteristics can help you distinguish and classify these exotic birds.
This guide will take you through a detailed eagle identification chart so you can identify these powerful birds at first glance.
Table of Contents
Female Eagle Identification Chart
Differentiating between male and female eagles can be difficult since there are no obvious differences between the two. Nonetheless, there are some tiny details that can help you identify female eagles. Female eagles, no matter what species, tend to be slightly heavier and larger than males.
Since female eagles are primarily responsible for nesting and incubating the eggs, they often show hostile and territorial behavior. They have a slightly low-pitched sound and feature a larger back talon and hook on their bills owing to their larger size.
While you can determine the sex in adult eagles, it is practically impossible to identify female eagles in young or juvenile birds. This is majorly because of the varying plumage and the fact that young eagles do not show variations among the sexes.
| Distinct Feature | Female Eagle | Male Eagle |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Generally larger | Generally smaller |
| Body Mass | Heavier body | Lighter body |
| Beak Size | Larger beak | Smaller beak |
| Head Size | Larger head | Smaller head |
| Feather Coloration | Often darker and more mottled plumage | Lighter and less mottled plumage |
| Eye Color | Brown or amber | Yellow or light brown |
| Vocalization | Typically lower-pitched calls | Higher-pitched calls |
| Nesting Behavior | More involved in nest building and care of young | Less involved in nest building and care of young |
| Hunting Behavior | May engage in cooperative hunting with mate | Often hunts alone or with other males |
| Territorial Behavior | May defend nesting territory more aggressively | Maybe less aggressive in defending territory |
| Wing Span | Similar to male’s wing span, but varies by species | Similar to the female’s wing span, but varies by species |
Also read: Hawk Identification Chart
How to Identify an Eagle?
When you look up at the sky and notice a large bird, how do you identify if it is an eagle or some other raptor? Since all birds of prey look alike when soaring high up in the sky, it can be challenging to differentiate one from another. However, there are a few small details that can help you identify an eagle easily.
Eagles usually have a large, heavy body that is easy to recognize from the ground. They have straight, or plank-like wings, giving eagles a distinct appearance. Depending on the species, the colour of the plumage varies. However, most eagles feature a white head, brown wings and a characteristic yellow bill.
The sharp talons help them catch the prey while the hooked beaks assist in tearing of the flesh. Eagles are known for their long flights by soaring in the air with their wings held outwards and minimum flapping. Their sharp eye sight allows them to spot their prey, while the huge wings permits a smooth glide with a gradual incline to catch up with the prey.
7 Levels Of Classification for an Eagle
There are almost 60 species of eagles found throughout the world. There are several genera of eagles based on their respective species. This includes the genera Aquila, Harpia, Ictinaetus, Spilornis, and a lot more. Like all living organisms, eagles are classified into 7 levels of hierarchy based on the Linnaean system. Let’s have a look!
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves
- Order: Falconiformes
- Family: Accipitridae
Distinguishing Characteristics of the Eagle
Most eagle species have similar appearances, such as large yellow bills, brown bodies, and large wingspan. However, there are a few distinguishing characteristics that can help you differentiate between them.
- Eagles are spectacular, large birds of prey, ranging in size from 20 to 40 inches.
- They usually have a total wingspan of anywhere from 5 feet to 7 feet.
- They have massive, hooked, yellow beaks for tearing the flesh of their prey. Depending on the species, the beak can be yellow or black.
- Their keen eyesight is comparable to the visual acuity of humans, helping them spot their prey from high above in the sky.
- Plumage goes through several variations until the eagle turns into an adult. Most adult eagles have a white head and tail with dark brown bodies.
- They have powerful legs and sharp talons that aid in catching the prey.
Also read: Owl Identification Chart
What Can be Mistaken for an Eagle?
There are several birds that are often mistaken for an eagle. This includes hawks, vultures, kites, and falcons. How are they similar to eagles? Let’s find out!
Hawks
Eagles and hawks belong to the same family, hence they can be mistaken for each other. Eagles are larger than hawks and have a longer wingspan. While hawks have rounded wings and a stocky body.
Vultures
Vultures are similar to eagles, with a sharp, hooked beak, and brown body; however, they are smaller than eagles and have a hunched posture. They also have a bald head and narrow wings.
Kites
Since both eagles and kites are birds of prey, one is often mistaken for another. Kites are smaller than eagles and have a small head, beak, pointed wings, and a V-shaped tail.
Falcons
Falcons and eagles both have large wings. However, falcon wings are long and pointed while eagles have broad wings. The eagles are also heavier and stronger than the falcons.
Conclusion
Once you have gone through this eagle identification chart, all you need is a pair of powerful binoculars, and you are all set for a fascinating bird watch. Even though the differences between eagle species are small, with practice you will learn how to distinguish between them. And don’t forget to have fun while you are at it!