Types of Eagles

From soaring sea eagles to the mighty harpy of the rainforest

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Eagles are among the largest and most powerful birds of prey, with about 60 species worldwide. Here are some of the best-known types.

Sea and fish eagles

Sea and fish eagles are large eagles that live near water and feed heavily on fish. The bald eagle is North America's famous fish eagle, easily known by its white head and tail; read more in bald eagle facts. The white-tailed eagle and Steller's sea eagle are large relatives found across Europe and Asia. These birds often snatch fish from the surface or steal catches from other birds. They are among the most recognizable birds of prey.

Booted and forest eagles

Booted eagles have feathers running all the way down their legs. The golden eagle is a powerful booted eagle of open country that hunts mammals such as rabbits and hares. The harpy eagle is a massive rainforest hunter of Central and South America, taking monkeys and sloths from the treetops. Other members include the martial eagle of Africa and various hawk-eagles. To learn what all these birds eat, see the eagle diet.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the largest eagle?

By weight and power the harpy eagle and Steller's sea eagle rank among the largest. The Philippine eagle is one of the longest and rarest.

How many types of eagles are there?

There are roughly 60 eagle species worldwide, most of them living in Africa, Asia and Europe rather than the Americas.

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