North America is home to eight species of eagles: the bald eagle, golden eagle, harpy eagle, crested eagle, black hawk-eagle, black-and-white hawk-eagle, ornate hawk-eagle, and solitary eagle. Together, they represent the full diversity of eagles found across the continent.
This article focuses on the native and regularly occurring types of eagles found across North America, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and parts of the Caribbean. We describe their appearance, habitat, and behavior to help you recognize them in the field, with attention to their unique roles across different ecosystems and regions. We also briefly highlight two vagrant species that occasionally visit the continent but do not have established populations.
Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
- Identification: Large raptor with dark brown body, white head and tail, and hooked yellow beak.
- Where found: Across North America – coasts, lakes, rivers, wetlands, and forests near water.
- Region status: Native resident and partial migrant; widespread and common in suitable habitats.
- Conservation status: Least Concern; a major conservation success story, now stable and increasing.

The bald eagle, the national bird and symbol of the United States, is one of the most iconic and recognizable eagle species in North America. Adults are unmistakable, with a dark brown body contrasting sharply with a bright white head and tail, complemented by a large, hooked yellow beak. They are among the largest birds in the region, measuring 70-102 centimeters (27.6-40.2 inches) in body length and with wingspans reaching up to 2.44 meters (8 feet) in northern populations. In flight, they show broad, flat wings and a prominent projecting head, creating a distinctive plank-like silhouette. Juvenile bald eagles lack the white head and tail, often resembling golden eagles, but they can be distinguished by their larger, more protruding head, straighter wings, and hefty beak.
This species is widespread across North America, ranging from Alaska and Canada to Mexico and the Gulf Coast. Southern populations are generally year-round residents, while northern birds migrate southward in winter, especially when waters freeze. Bald eagles favor habitats near water, including coasts, lakes, rivers, reservoirs, and estuaries, where fish are abundant. They prefer tall trees for nesting and perching but are increasingly adapting to human-modified landscapes such as reservoirs, golf courses, and urban parks near water.
Bald eagles are skilled hunters and opportunistic scavengers. Fish make up the bulk of their diet, but they also take birds, mammals, reptiles, and carrion, showing flexibility based on food availability. They are notorious for kleptoparasitism – stealing food from other birds, particularly ospreys. Their courtship displays are dramatic, often involving aerial cartwheels where pairs lock talons and tumble downward – an impressive ritual that reflects their strong lifelong pair bonds. They construct enormous stick nests, among the largest of any bird, which can measure over 2.9 meters (9.5 feet) wide and 6.1 meters (20 feet) deep after years of reuse and enlargement. Outside of the breeding season, bald eagles may gather in large communal roosts, especially near rich food sources.
Once critically threatened by hunting, pesticide contamination (especially DDT), and habitat loss, the bald eagle has become a symbol of conservation success. Legal protections, habitat restoration, and the banning of DDT allowed populations to recover dramatically, leading to their removal from the U.S. Endangered Species List in 2007. Today, the species continues to expand in both wild and urban settings. Current threats include lead poisoning from ingested ammunition, collisions with vehicles and power lines, and ongoing habitat pressures near waterways, but overall their status remains stable and secure.
Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
- Identification: Large, dark brown eagle with golden nape; broad wings held in a slight “V” when soaring.
- Where found: Across North America – mainly in open areas such as grasslands, mountains, deserts, and tundra.
- Region status: Widespread but generally scarce; resident in western areas, migratory in the north.
- Conservation status: Least Concern; stable but faces localized threats from human activities.

The golden eagle is among the largest and most powerful raptors on the continent, known for its speed, agility, and commanding presence. Adults are dark brown overall with lighter golden tones on the nape and crown, which give the species its name. They range from 66 to 102 centimeters (26-40.2 inches) in body length, with wingspans reaching up to 2.55 meters (8.4 feet) in large individuals. In flight, they display long, broad wings typically held in a shallow dihedral or “V” shape, with a relatively short-necked profile. Juvenile birds often show white patches at the base of the tail and wings but can be distinguished from young sea eagles by their sleeker flight silhouette and less mottled plumage.
This species is widely distributed across western North America, from Alaska and northern Canada south through the western United States and into Mexico. It favors remote, open landscapes such as grasslands, shrublands, deserts, cliffs, and tundra, avoiding dense forests and heavily developed areas. Northern populations migrate southward in winter, while others remain year-round residents. Golden eagles typically nest on cliffs or in large trees overlooking their hunting grounds, and in some regions, they also use human-made structures such as power poles or nesting platforms.
Golden eagles are versatile and formidable hunters, preying primarily on small to medium-sized mammals such as rabbits, hares, and ground squirrels. They also hunt large birds, reptiles, and occasionally larger mammals like deer or pronghorn fawns, although such cases are rare. Carrion becomes an important food source in winter, and these eagles are adept at locating carcasses, often by following other scavengers. Courtship displays are striking, involving steep dives, loops, and aerial games with sticks or prey. Their nests are massive and can be reused for many years, growing up to 6.1 meters (20 feet) tall and 2.6 meters (8.5 feet) wide. Mated pairs defend large territories and may hunt cooperatively during the breeding season.
Despite legal protections, golden eagles face notable risks in parts of their range. Electrocution on power lines, collisions with wind turbines, lead poisoning from scavenged prey, and illegal shootings or poisonings are leading causes of mortality. Habitat loss from energy development, changes in grazing practices, and shifts in prey populations due to climate change also pose threats in some areas. Conservation efforts include retrofitting power poles, reducing wind turbine risks, and preserving large, open landscapes to support stable populations.
Harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja)
- Identification: Massive raptor with dark slate-black back, white underparts, bold black breast band, and pale grey head with double crest.
- Where found: Southern Mexico to Panama – lowland rainforests, primarily in remote and mature forest habitats.
- Region status: Very rare; survives only in a few remote areas of its range.
- Conservation status: Vulnerable; rapidly declining due to habitat loss and persecution.

The harpy eagle is the largest and most powerful raptor in Central America and a rare but remarkable species of the region’s lowland rainforests. Adults are striking, with dark slate-black upperparts, white underparts, and a bold black breast band that contrasts with their pale grey head topped by a distinctive double crest. This eagle is exceptionally large, measuring 86-107 centimeters (33.9 to 42.1 inches) in body length, with a wingspan reaching up to 2.24 meters (7.3 feet). It holds the distinction of being the world’s heaviest eagle, with some females reaching body masses of up to 10 kilograms (22 pounds). Adapted for maneuverability in dense forest, its wings are relatively short but broad. Juveniles are paler with white heads and lack the dark breast band seen in adults.
In North and Central America, the harpy eagle’s range extends from southern Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. It is now largely restricted to isolated rainforest regions, especially in Panama and parts of Costa Rica where sightings remain possible. Elsewhere, it is nearly or entirely extirpated due to severe habitat loss. This species depends on mature, continuous lowland tropical forests, typically below 900 meters (3,000 feet) but occasionally ranging up to 2,000 meters (6,600 feet). It nests in towering emergent trees such as kapoks and Brazil nut trees. Though primarily a bird of intact forests, it may also hunt in degraded areas or forest-pasture mosaics, provided enough cover remains.
The harpy eagle is a specialist predator of arboreal mammals, particularly sloths and monkeys, which dominate its diet. Occasionally, it also takes other mammals, large birds like macaws, and reptiles. It hunts by perching quietly within the canopy or flying low through the trees to surprise its prey, capable of capturing animals weighing nearly its own body weight. Pairs defend large territories and raise just one chick every two to three years. Nests, often in the tallest trees, can exceed 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) across and are reused over many seasons.
The harpy eagle faces severe threats throughout its North and Central American range. Habitat loss from logging, agriculture, and infrastructure projects has devastated much of its former rainforest habitat. Additionally, the species is frequently hunted, either due to misplaced fears of livestock predation, curiosity, or for use in traditional practices and wildlife trade. Even in protected areas, shootings and poaching continue to take a toll. Conservation efforts include nest protection, education programs, and reintroduction projects, though success has been limited. The species persists mainly where large tracts of intact forest remain, with urgent action needed to prevent further regional declines.
Crested eagle (Morphnus guianensis)
- Identification: Large, slender eagle with grey-brown upperparts, pale underparts, and prominent feathered crest.
- Where found: Southern Mexico to Panama – mature lowland forests, mainly near rivers and undisturbed areas.
- Region status: Rare and elusive; sparsely distributed in remaining rainforests.
- Conservation status: Near Threatened; declining due to deforestation and hunting, with scattered surviving populations.

The crested eagle is one of the rarest and most elusive raptors in Central America, inhabiting remote stretches of lowland rainforest. Adults are slender, with a large head accentuated by a long, feathered crest. Their plumage varies, but most adults show dark grey upperparts, pale whitish underparts, and a grey-toned head and breast, with noticeable barring across the belly. This eagle measures 71-89 centimeters (28-35 inches) in body length, with a wingspan of up to 1.76 meters (5.8 feet). In flight, adults reveal pale underwings and underparts with grey shading on the chest and bold barring on the belly. Darker morphs also occur, showing much deeper gray or nearly black coloration overall. Juveniles are mostly white with darker wings and gradually darken as they mature.
In North and Central America, the crested eagle is sparsely distributed from extreme southern Mexico through Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. It inhabits humid lowland forests, including old-growth tropical rainforests and gallery forests, typically below 600 meters (2,000 feet) but occasionally up to 1,200 meters (3,900 feet) in foothill areas. The species shows a preference for areas near rivers or forest edges but remains tied to regions with significant forest cover. In much of its range, it is now restricted to the most intact forest fragments due to extensive deforestation, particularly in Mexico and northern Central America.
The crested eagle is a patient and secretive hunter, often perching silently for long periods while scanning for prey. Its diet varies by region but consists mostly of arboreal mammals, particularly small to medium-sized monkeys such as tamarins and capuchins, as well as opossums and other small mammals. Reptiles, including snakes and iguanas, are also frequently taken, alongside occasional birds such as trumpeters and guans. This eagle generally preys on animals weighing up to around 3 kilograms (6.6 pounds) and tends to avoid the larger prey favored by the sympatric harpy eagle. Breeding occurs high in emergent trees, with nests built in dense foliage near the canopy.
Throughout its Central American range, the crested eagle faces serious threats from deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and hunting. Large-scale loss of old-growth rainforest has reduced its available habitat dramatically, especially in Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. The species’ low reproductive rate and naturally low population density further heighten its vulnerability. Additionally, it is occasionally targeted by hunters, sometimes for traditional reasons or simply due to its conspicuous appearance. While some relict populations persist in areas like Belize and Panama, continued habitat protection and stricter enforcement against hunting are essential to prevent further declines.
Black hawk-eagle (Spizaetus tyrannus)
- Identification: Medium-sized black eagle with bold white bands on the tail and white checkering under the wings.
- Where found: Southern Mexico to Panama – lowland and foothill tropical forests.
- Region status: Uncommon and local; more often heard than seen.
- Conservation status: Least Concern; widespread but declining in some areas due to deforestation.

The black hawk-eagle is a medium-sized raptor of tropical forests in Central America, known for its distinctive shape and bold markings. Adults are mostly black with white checkered patterns on the underside of the wings and bold white bands on the long, narrow tail. This species measures 58-71 centimeters (22.8-28 inches) in length, with a wingspan of up to 1.48 meters (4.9 feet). In flight, the wings appear broad and slightly short, while the tail is usually kept closed. The bushy crest is one of this eagle’s most distinctive features, though it is usually visible only when the bird is perched. Immature birds are browner, with a paler crown and throat.
In North and Central America, the black hawk-eagle ranges from southern Mexico through Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama, inhabiting lowland and foothill tropical forests. It prefers dense forests but can sometimes be found near forest edges and clearings. This species is most often seen soaring above the canopy in mid-morning, calling with loud, whistling cries that carry far across the landscape. Though uncommon and sometimes overlooked, it can persist in fragmented habitats where forest cover remains.
Despite its moderate size, the black hawk-eagle is a powerful and versatile hunter. It preys on a wide variety of animals, including large rodents such as pacas and squirrels, opossums, monkeys such as howler monkeys and marmosets, and even bats. Birds are also regularly taken, ranging from small songbirds to large species such as toucans, macaws, and guans. Reptiles, including snakes and iguanas, round out its diet. It typically hunts by moving between high perches, scanning for prey before launching a swift pounce or agile pursuit through the trees. Solitary by nature, it is most active in the morning hours.
The species is considered widespread and remains relatively secure across its broad range, but populations are declining in some areas due to ongoing deforestation. Loss of mature forest habitat, especially in Mexico and northern Central America, has likely reduced its numbers locally. Despite this, the black hawk-eagle shows some adaptability to fragmented landscapes and persists in several protected areas. Continued forest protection is important for maintaining its populations, particularly in regions where habitat loss is accelerating.
Black-and-white hawk-eagle (Spizaetus melanoleucus)
- Identification: Striking eagle with bright white underparts and head, contrasting blackish upperparts, and short black crest.
- Where found: Southern Mexico to Panama – lowland tropical forests, often near ridges or edges.
- Region status: Rare and local; mostly seen in flight.
- Conservation status: Least Concern; decreasing in some areas due to habitat loss.

The black-and-white hawk-eagle is among the most distinctive raptors of Central America’s tropical forests, noted for its bold black-and-white plumage and powerful flight. Adults have bright white underparts and head, contrasting sharply with dark blackish upperparts. This eagle measures 51-61 centimeters (20.1-24 inches) in length, with a wingspan of up to 1.35 meters (4.4 feet). A short black crest and black markings around the eyes add to their striking appearance, although these features are usually only visible at close range or when perched. In flight, they show a distinctive white leading edge on the inner wing that contrasts with the dark wings and back. Juveniles resemble pale kites but can be separated by their larger size and the orange base to the bill.
In North and Central America, this species ranges from southern Mexico through Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. It inhabits lowland and foothill forests, generally avoiding areas with dense, humid canopy but also steering clear of very dry or open habitats. The black-and-white hawk-eagle favors mixed landscapes with a combination of mature forest and edge habitat but depends on large tracts of continuous canopy for hunting and nesting. It typically occupies elevations below 1,200 meters (3,900 feet). Despite its wide range, it remains rare and highly localized, usually seen soaring high above the canopy while hunting.
This eagle is a versatile predator, feeding on a variety of birds and small mammals. It shows a strong preference for tree-dwelling bird species, including oropendolas, tanagers, and cotingas, but also hunts ground-dwelling birds such as tinamous, chachalacas, and quails. Other prey includes reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals such as opossums. Its hunting strategy involves soaring high above the forest and then diving rapidly to strike prey in the canopy or along edges and ridges. Occasionally, it hunts by ambush from perches. Though generally solitary and highly secretive, this species requires large hunting territories.
The black-and-white hawk-eagle remains poorly studied in much of its range. While it appears tolerant of some habitat variation, it is still dependent on sizable areas of mature forest and is vulnerable to habitat fragmentation. Populations may be declining in parts of Central America due to deforestation and land-use changes. Although it has a broad range, this species remains scarce and localized throughout much of its habitat. Protecting large tracts of forest and maintaining mixed landscapes with intact canopy are key to preserving this elusive eagle.
Ornate hawk-eagle (Spizaetus ornatus)
- Identification: Striking forest eagle with rufous head sides, bold black barring below, and long spiky crest.
- Where found: Southeastern Mexico through Central America – humid lowland and foothill forests.
- Region status: Rare resident; highly localized and scarce throughout its range.
- Conservation status: Near Threatened; declining due to deforestation and persecution.

The ornate hawk-eagle is one of the most spectacular and rarely seen raptors of the forests of Mexico and Central America. Adults are unmistakable with bold black barring on the underparts, rich rufous on the sides of the head and chest, a black crown, and a prominent long, spiky crest that is often raised when perched. The upperparts are dark with white markings on the wing coverts and tail bands. This species measures 56-68 centimeters (22.0 to 26.8 inches) in body length and has a wingspan of up to 1.42 meters (4.7 feet). Juveniles are mostly white with minimal dark markings, lacking the rufous tones and barring of adults.
In North and Central America, this eagle is found from southeastern Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. Within this region, it inhabits humid tropical lowland and foothill forests, typically below 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) but occasionally ranging higher. It strongly favors unbroken primary forests but may also use tall secondary forests and shaded plantations with large trees. Though generally sedentary, it sometimes wanders into slightly drier forests or higher elevations, especially in search of prey or new territories. The species is now absent from parts of its former range due to deforestation.
A highly skilled forest hunter, the ornate hawk-eagle specializes in preying on medium-sized to large birds such as guans, tinamous, and toucans, as well as mammals like squirrels and small monkeys. It hunts by silently perching within the forest, launching rapid surprise attacks on prey either on the ground or in trees. Courtship displays involve high circling flights, talon-grappling, and dramatic aerial dives. Nests are large stick structures placed high in tall emergent trees, often between 17 and 30 meters (56-98 feet) above ground.
Despite its broad historical range, the ornate hawk-eagle is now rare throughout Mexico and Central America, with populations declining due to habitat loss and hunting. This eagle depends on large tracts of dense forest, making it highly vulnerable to deforestation, logging, and forest fragmentation. It also faces persecution for preying on domestic poultry or competing with hunters for game species. In some areas, it is now restricted to remote forests or protected reserves, though even these sites face ongoing pressure. Continued conservation of intact forest habitats and reductions in hunting are essential for the survival of this elusive forest eagle.
Solitary eagle (Buteogallus solitarius)
- Identification: Large, broad-winged eagle with slaty gray plumage and short white-banded tail; juveniles are mottled brown.
- Where found: Western Mexico through Central America – humid mountain and foothill forests at mid-elevations.
- Region status: Very rare and local resident; extremely scarce throughout its range.
- Conservation status: Near Threatened; declining due to habitat loss and persecution.

The solitary eagle is one of the rarest and least-known eagles of the highland forests of Mexico and Central America, seldom observed and often misidentified. Adults are large and imposing, with uniformly dark slaty-gray plumage and a short tail marked by a distinctive white band. This species measures 63-79 centimeters (24.8 to 31.1 inches) in length and has a wingspan of up to 1.88 meters (6.2 feet). In flight, their exceptionally broad wings nearly reach the tail tip, giving them a thickset, heavy appearance. They soar with slow, steady wingbeats and show a powerful silhouette, with legs that extend well toward the tail in flight. Juveniles are mottled brown and tan with pale markings around the face and diffuse brownish tails.
Restricted to humid mountain forests and foothills, the solitary eagle is found from western Mexico south through Guatemala, Belize, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. It inhabits steep, densely forested hillsides and rugged terrain, usually at elevations between 600 and 2,200 meters (2,000-7,200 feet). Reports from lowlands are often misidentifications, as this species rarely ventures into lower elevations. It strongly favors primary forest with minimal disturbance and requires large, continuous tracts of habitat to persist. Despite its wide range, it remains extremely local and elusive, with many parts of its distribution lacking confirmed recent records.
Little is known about the feeding and breeding behavior of the solitary eagle due to its rarity and secretive nature. Observations suggest it mainly preys on reptiles, particularly large snakes, and occasionally on other vertebrates such as birds and small mammals. There are also reports of this eagle hunting deer fawns and taking large forest birds like chachalacas. It likely forages over very large areas, with some individuals observed covering over 100 square kilometers (39 square miles) in search of food. Nesting is poorly documented, but known nests have been located in large forest trees, typically within remote, undisturbed areas.
This species faces serious conservation challenges throughout its range, with habitat loss being the primary threat. Deforestation, logging, and land conversion for agriculture have drastically reduced suitable forest cover in many areas. The solitary eagle is also vulnerable to shooting and disturbance, and its specialized habitat needs make it particularly sensitive to environmental change. Additionally, climate change poses a risk by potentially shifting its montane habitat upwards. Conservation efforts have begun in some areas, such as research and habitat protection programs in Belize and Mexico, but overall protection remains limited. Expansion of protected areas and continued monitoring are crucial for this rare highland eagle’s future survival.
Vagrant eagles in North America
While the eight eagle species above represent those that occur naturally and regularly in North America, from widespread residents to rare but regionally established forest eagles, two additional species occasionally appear as rare vagrants.
The Steller’s sea eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus), a massive raptor from northeastern Asia, has gained notoriety for wandering across North America. Since 2020, a single individual has been documented traveling widely, with confirmed sightings ranging from Alaska to Texas, the northeastern United States, and eastern Canada, including Maine, Massachusetts, and Newfoundland, where it was recently reported nesting. Similarly, the white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) occasionally crosses the Bering Sea from its breeding grounds in the Russian Far East. It has been recorded sporadically in parts of Alaska, especially the Aleutian Islands, and formerly bred there until the 1980s.
While these remarkable visitors do not have established populations in North America, they remain among the most impressive and rarely seen eagle species on the continent.