Nests usually are built near the top of a large tree. Enlarged annually, a bald eagle nest can become the largest of any North American bird. Immature bald eagles often are confused with golden eagles, which also are nearly solid brown. One characteristic that sets the two species apart is the legs. The bald eagle s legs are naked, while golden eagles have feathers all the way down to the talons.
Fish comprise the bulk of the bald eagle s diet.
In midwinter, dead or crippled waterfowl and other wildlife become important food sources. Nests usually are built near the top of a large tree. Enlarged annually, a bald eagle nest can become the largest of any North American bird. Both parents incubate the eggs for a 35-day period. Although the life expectancy of wild eagles may be 30 years, some have lived 50 years in captivity.