Eagles are large birds of prey which inhabit mainly the Old World, with only two species (Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle) commonly found in North America, a few in South America, the (White-bellied Sea Eagle, Wedge-tailed Eagle) in Australia and the Philippine Eagle in the Philippine Archipelago. They are members of the bird order Falconiformes (or Accipitriformes, according to alternative classification schemes), family Accipitridae and belong to several genera which are not necessarily closely related to each other.
Eagles are differentiated from other broad-winged birds of prey mainly by their larger size, more powerful build, and heavier head and bill. Even the smallest eagles, like the Booted Eagle, which is comparable in size to a Common Buzzard or Red-tailed Hawk has relatively longer and more evenly broad wings, and more direct, faster flight. Most eagles are larger than any other raptors apart from the vultures.
In Britain before 1678, Eagle referred specifically to the Golden Eagle, the other native species, the White-tailed Eagle, being known as the Erne. The modern name "Golden Eagle" for Aquila chrysaetos was introduced by the naturalist John Ray.
Like all birds of prey, eagles have very large powerful hooked beaks for tearing flesh from their prey, strong legs, and powerful talons. They also have extremely keen eyesight to enable them to spot potential prey from a very long distance. This keen eyesight is primarily contributed by their extremely large pupils which cause minimal diffraction (spreading) of the incoming light.
Eagles build their nest in tall trees or on high cliffs. Their nests, which are sometimes called eyries, can grow to 10 feet in diameter and weigh as much as 2000 pounds.
Eagles are sometimes used in falconry. They appear prominently in myth and literature. In the Old World, such references are commonly to the Golden Eagle (or possibly closely related species found in warm climates).
The EAGLE is a regal species, with keen vision and dignity. They are known to attack their prey instantaneously by flying down from the high mountains and scooping it up. The eagle is a symbol of greatness on the US Government logo.
2006-12-03 00:47:26
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answer #1
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answered by ••Mott•• 6
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The Bald Eagle is our official national bird. Good thing too, because Ben Franklin wanted it to be a wild turkey, but that would just look stupid....
2006-12-03 11:53:22
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answer #2
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answered by bathagent 2
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Power, freedom and strength i would say
2006-12-03 02:24:51
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answer #3
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answered by rainbowarrior73 4
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Freedom, pure and simple.
2006-12-03 01:20:04
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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The guy who draw it didn't know how to draw a falcon!
2006-12-03 01:34:19
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answer #5
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answered by kesatria 6
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FREEDOM and STRENGTH
2006-12-03 00:52:46
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answer #6
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answered by perplexed 4
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BALD!
2006-12-03 00:48:08
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answer #7
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answered by grumpyoldman 4
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