|
Eagle can reach 16 to 39 inches in length and 0.99 to 15 pounds of weight.
|
|
Most species of eagle are covered with grey, yellowish-brown and brown plumage.
|
|
Eagles have heavier heads, larger, more strongly curved beaks and more powerful and larger bodies compared with other raptors. Some eagles have short wings and long tail, while others have long, wide wings and short tail. First group of eagles is adapted to the life in densely forested areas, while other inhabits open plains and areas around water. All eagles have muscular legs which end with large, sharp talons.
|
|
Eagle has large eyes with very large pupils. It has 5 times more light-sensitive cells in the eyes than humans and ability to recognize 5 basic colors (humans can recognize only 3).
|
|
Thanks to its keen eyesight, eagle can spot small and well-camouflaged prey (such as rabbit) from a distance of nearly two miles.
|
|
Eagle is a carnivore. Its diet is based on lizards, small mammals, fish and carrion. Large species of eagle consume young deer, goats, wild cats and monkeys.
|
|
Eagle "lands" on the prey at the speed of 150 miles per hour and kills it with its sharp claws and beak.
|
|
Hard-shelled animals, such as turtles, are also on the menu. Eagle collects turtle from the ground and releases it in the air above the rocks to crack the shell and expose meat hidden inside.
|
|
Eagle is territorial animal. It occupies territory of 50 to 100 square miles, depending on the species.
|
|
Males perform various acrobatics in the air to attract females during the mating season. Formed couples usually last for a lifetime.
|
|
Female lays 2 to 4 eggs in the nest on the cliff or top of a tree. Male doesn't participate in the incubation, but it provides food for the female during this period.
|
|
Many species of eagle lay two eggs, but end up with only one chick, because older, larger sibling usually kills smaller chick to ensure more food for itself.
|
|
Eagle reaches sexual maturity at the age of 4 to 5 years.
|
|
Eagle is symbol of power and freedom in the entire world. It can be seen on the coat of army of countries such as Germany, Poland, Egypt and Mexico.
|
|
Eagle can survive up to 35 years in the wild.
|
