Large bodies of open water including coasts, rivers, and lakes with abundant fish and old-growth trees for nesting.
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Song & Call Comparison
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Song & Call Comparison
Bald Eagle
Song
High-pitched, chattering whistle: a rapid 'kleek-kik-ik-ik-ik'. Surprisingly weak and thin for such a large raptor. Also gives a lower 'kwit-kwit' call near the nest.
Red-necked Buzzard
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Geographic Range & Migration
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Geographic Range & Migration
Bald Eagle
North America from Alaska and Canada through the contiguous United States to northern Mexico.
Red-necked Buzzard
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Conservation Status Comparison
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Conservation Status
Least Concern
Bald Eagle
Least Concern
Red-necked Buzzard
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Identification Tips — How to Tell Them Apart
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How to Tell Them Apart
Bald Eagle
Plumage
Adults have a dark brown body with a striking white head and tail. Juveniles are mottled brown and white, reaching full adult plumage at age five.
Bill
Large, hooked, bright yellow bill
Red-necked Buzzard
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About Each Bird (Descriptions)
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The bald eagle is the national bird and symbol of the United States. Once endangered due to DDT pesticide use, it made a remarkable recovery and was removed from the endangered species list in 2007. These powerful raptors build the largest tree nests of any bird, some weighing over two tons.
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More Birds in Family
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