Often seen over open country, woodlands, and farm areas. From a distance, can easily be mistaken for Bald Eagles, since both have large, flat wings. Close looks reveal white at tips of underwings. Bald Eagle has proportionately shorter tail and larger head. White on wings and tail of immature Goldens more clearly demarcated than on Balds.
Ospreys have all-white bodies, easily seen in flight.
Note, though, that third-year eagles can have extensive white underneath. If perched, look for Osprey's dark eye-stripe on small, white head. Ospreys are always found near open water, and in winter in U.S., only in southern Florida. Gulls often soar high as well, and from a distance, immatures of larger species can appear darker and larger than they may actually be, suggesting an eagle. Viewed from above, an adult Great Black-backed Gull , with its white head and tail along with black wings and back, may superficially resemble an adult Bald Eagle.