The founders of the United States wanted a bird to symbolize a nation they hoped would be strong and powerful; a bird that could soar high to represent freedom. They chose the bald eagle, a bird of prey found only in North America. You can see images of bald eagles on coins, stamps, and more!
Are bald eagles bald? No! Their head is full of short, white feathers. The term bald may be from the Old English word balde, which meant white.
Bald eagles live near bodies of water to be close to their favorite food—fish! There are still many bald eagles in Alaska. They gather in huge groups around rivers when salmon are abundant. When fish are scarce, bald eagles hunt rabbits, squirrels, other birds, and even young deer. They even steal food from other birds!
Look for our bald eagle along Condor Trail.
