White-tailed Eagle vs Bald Eagle

In short

The White-tailed Eagle and Bald Eagle are large, powerful raptors that can be distinguished by tail and head coloration. The White-tailed Eagle has a pale head and a distinctive white tail, while the Bald Eagle has a white head and tail only as an adult. Juvenile Bald Eagles are often confused with White-tailed Eagles due to their similar plumage.

Identification tips

1. Tail Color: Look for the white tail in adult White-tailed Eagles and both head and tail in adult Bald Eagles. 2. Head Color: Adult Bald Eagles have a white head, while White-tailed Eagles have a pale head. 3. Juvenile Confusion: Juvenile Bald Eagles are often confused with White-tailed Eagles; note the mottled appearance in young Bald Eagles. 4. Location: Consider geographic location; Bald Eagles are in North America, while White-tailed Eagles are in Europe and Asia. 5. Behavior: Bald Eagles are more likely to scavenge, which can help in identification.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the White-tailed Eagle is slightly larger and bulkier.

Plumage

Adult White-tailed Eagles have a pale head and a white tail, whereas adult Bald Eagles have a white head and tail. Juvenile Bald Eagles are brown with mottled white and can resemble White-tailed Eagles, which also have brown plumage when immature.

Behaviour

Both species are often seen soaring or perched near water, but the Bald Eagle is more likely to be seen scavenging.

Habitat

Both species prefer habitats near large bodies of water. White-tailed Eagles are found across Europe and Asia, while Bald Eagles are native to North America.

Voice

The Bald Eagle has a distinctive, high-pitched call, whereas the White-tailed Eagle's call is less well-known and not as distinct.