Bald Eagle look-alikes

Key differences

Adult Bald Eagles have a white head and tail; adult Golden Eagles are uniformly dark brown with a golden nape. Juvenile Bald Eagles have extensive white mottling on the body and underwings, and a dark beak that lightens with age. Juvenile Golden Eagles have a distinct white patch at the base of the primary feathers and a white tail with a dark terminal band; their beak is dark throughout. Golden Eagles typically prefer more arid, open country and mountains, while Bald Eagles are tied to water.

Key differences

While both soar, Turkey Vultures hold their wings in a strong dihedral (V-shape) and often teeter or wobble in flight. Bald Eagles hold wings flat or in a slight dihedral and have a more stable flight. Turkey Vultures have a smaller, featherless red head (adults) or dark head (juveniles) and a two-toned underwing (silvery flight feathers, dark coverts). Bald Eagles are much larger and more robust, with a feathered head.

Key differences

Ospreys are smaller than Bald Eagles, have a distinctive dark eye stripe, and a white head with a dark crown. Their underparts are white, and their wings have a distinct 'M' shape in flight. Ospreys dive feet-first into the water to catch fish, while Bald Eagles snatch fish from the surface. Bald Eagles often harass Ospreys to steal their catch.