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Eagles
Two eagles are native to North America: the Bald Eagle and the Golden Eagle.
In Iowa, the Bald Eagle is more common, especially along the Missouri River.
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The Bald Eagle, our national bird, is recognized by its large yellow beak and white head and tail – but it takes about five years to develop these distinct features.
Their wingspan can reach 6-7.5 feet, allowing them to soar long distances and carry prey. Adult females are generally larger than males.
Bald eagles primarily eat fish but are opportunistic feeders, also taking birds, small mammals, carrion, and occasionally reptiles or amphibians.
They build huge nests called aeries, often in old cottonwood trees, where both parents care for 1-3 eggs per season. These nests can be 10 feet wide, weigh up to 2,000 pounds, and are reused and expanded each year. Look for them along the river.
Once threatened by hunting, habitat loss, and the pesticide DDT, Bald Eagles nearly disappeared from Iowa. By 1977, only one nesting pair remained. Because of conservation efforts, including habitat protection and the DDT ban, Iowa now has over 300 nesting pairs, a symbol of wildlife recovery and resilience.