What does the Bald Eagle eat?

The Bald Eagle's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Carnivore (primarily fish, also waterfowl, small mammals, carrion)

How it forages

Primarily piscivorous, catching fish by swooping down and snatching them from the water with their talons. Also preys on waterfowl (ducks, geese), small mammals, and carrion. Known to steal food from other raptors (kleptoparasitism), especially Ospreys. They are opportunistic feeders.

When it feeds

Diurnal, most active during daylight hours, especially morning and late afternoon for hunting.

Explore the Bald Eagle