Bald eagles are incredible birds that can be found in North America. Among the animal kingdom they are feared predators, being some of the most powerful birds America has to offer.

In today’s post, we’re going to cover some fascinating fun facts about bald eagles that you may not have known before! 

For example, did you know that one of the most famous founding fathers was against using the bald eagle as the national bird? 

To watch the incredible video version of this post, click HERE now. 

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Let’s get into it: 

#1: Benjamin Franklin Didn’t Like Bald Eagles 

Not all of the founding fathers of the United States of America wanted Bald Eagles to be the national bird to represent our nation! 

Benjamin Franklin is famously quoted saying: “For my own part I wish the Bald Eagle had not been chosen the Representative of our Country. He is a Bird of bad moral Character. He is a rank coward: The little King Bird not bigger than a Sparrow attacks him boldly and drives him out of the district.” 

Franklin then went on to explain that the Bald Eagle on the American Great Seal looked more like a Turkey, and he preferred it as such. He went on to say: 

“For the Truth the Turkey is in Comparison a much more respectable Bird. He is besides, though a little vain & silly, a Bird of Courage, and would not hesitate to attack a Grenadier of the British Guards who should presume to invade his Farm Yard with a red Coat on.”

In 1775, Franklin also suggested that the rattlesnake be the national symbol! 

#2: Are Bald Eagles Endangered? 

Did you know that some Eagle populations were actually listed under the Endangered Species Preservation Act? 

American preservation efforts worked, and in 1995 Eagle populations were moved to the “threatened, but not endangered” list. 

Finally in 2007 it became safe to say that Eagle populations were no longer endangered or even threatened, and they’re doing just fine! 

#3: Where Do They Live? 

Bald Eagles prefer to live near large bodies of open water such as Oceans or large lakes that also have a large supply of trees for nesting. 

They can be found all over the continental United States, Alaska, Canada, and the Northern sections of Mexico.

#4: What Do They Eat? 

Bald eagles are considered birds of prey or raptor. This means that they prefer to eat animals smaller than themselves. 

They mostly eat fish such as salmon or trout, but occasionally will eat larger land animals such as raccoons or rabbits! Bald eagles could even eat other small birds if they’re hungry enough. 

#5: How They Hunt

Bald Eagle eyesight is excellent, allowing them to see prey from a far from very high up. 

They then swoop in from very high at fast speeds and use a diving attack to snatch up their prey with their sharp talons. 

From there they could attack and kill, or if they’re easily able to lift the prey up then they could drop the prey up from high in order to kill the prey from falling damage. 

Once the prey is unconscious or dead, they then can eat it or bring it back to the nest for feeding. 

Bird Infestation

In some rare cases, bald eagles have even attempted to swoop in and pick up little toddlers or babies! 

While this is unlikely to happen to you, what is more common is bird-related infestation in your home. 

Birds and other small animals have seized the incredible opportunity to sneak in our attics, hide on our roofs, and use our human fortresses for their protection. 

While that’s great for them, this causes significant damage to your home and puts you at risk of disease or attack. 

We at Wildlife x Team International specialize in safe & responsible removal of wildlife & pests. 

If you think that you have a wildlife or pest problem, please contact us by calling 855-WILDLIFE or by visiting www.wildlifexteam.com for more information. 

Thanks & have a great day! 
-Wildlife x Team International