Buffalo Coyote Elk Moose Sheep Swans Eagles are large predatory birds that have been symbols of power, courage, and immortality since ancient times. The more than 50 species all belong to the hawk family, Accipitridae, order Falconiformes.
Eagles inhabit all major land regions except Antarctica and New Zealand.
Although once abundant, some eagles are becoming rare and face extinction. One rare species is the bald eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus, the national emblem of the United States. Although protected by law, some large eagles are killed by farmers and gamekeepers or captured for use in falconry. In addition, the bald eagle, like other birds, has been affected by the widespread use of pesticides that, ingested, can weaken eggs. Photo Courtesy of Greg Winston.