Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
Though native to the region, the Bald Eagle is rarely seen around Montreal. This magnificent raptor boasts a wingspan of up to 2 metres and is renowned for its fishing prowess, catching prey with powerful talons while soaring over water. Adults are instantly recognizable by their distinctive white-feathered heads.
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | Bald Eagle |
| 🇫🇷 | Pygargue à tête blanche |
| 🇩🇪 | Weißkopfseeadler |
| 🇲🇽 | Águila calva |
Taxonomy
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
Characteristics
| Length | 76-89cm |
| Weight | 3.6-6.4kg |
| Wingspan | 1.8-2.4m |
| Clutch Size | 1-3 eggs |
| Incubation | 34-36 days |
| Fledging | 8-14 weeks |
| Sexual Maturity | 5 years |
Identification and Similar Species
Adults can be easily identified by their white-feathered heads. For juveniles, the yellow bill with a black tip is a distinctive characteristic.
Best Locations and Seasons for Sightings
My only wildlife observations of this species have occurred in St. John's, Newfoundland.
All content on this page — including photos, videos, and field audio recordings — was created by Karl-Heinz Müller, a Montréal-based wildlife filmmaker, sound recordist, and photographer. Founder of MUUUH and Québec Sauvage, he has spent over a decade documenting Canada’s natural habitats through immersive soundscapes and wildlife films. Learn more about Karl-Heinz
Last updated: 2025-04-05