Eagles are one of the largest birds of prey on the planet, as well as being one of the most beautiful to watch.
So what does an eagle weigh?
There are more than 60 different species, and the smallest is the South Nicobar serpent eagle. It is also known as the Spilornis Klossi and weighs around 1 pound.
On the other end of the scale are the Stellar Eagle and the Harpy Eagle, which can weigh over 20 pounds (9.07 kg).
These expert hunters are equipped with the tools an aerial predator needs to catch its prey. This includes long and powerful wings, excellent vision, sharply-hooked beaks, and large, sharp talons.
Their extra weight and bulk means they attack with force. Any potential target has little chance of surviving an attack from these birds.
Weights For Different Types Of Eagles:
- Bald Eagle – 6.5 to 14 pounds (2.94 to 6.35 kg)
- Steller’s Sea Eagle – 15 to 20 pounds (6.8 to 9.07 kg)
- Philippine Eagle – 14 pounds (6.35 kg)
- Harpy Eagle – 13 pounds (5.9 kg)
- White-Tailed Eagle – 11 pounds (4.99 kg)
- Golden Eagle – 6.5 to 15 pounds (2.94 to 6.8 kg)
- Martial Eagle – 8 to 10 pounds (3.62 to 4.53 kg)
- Crowned Eagle – 7 to 10 pounds (3.17 to 4.53 kg)
What Do Eagles Eat?
Eagles aren’t fussy about what they eat. Their menu includes a wide range of small mammals, fish, insects, reptiles, and birds on their menu.
Larger species, such as the Golden Eagle are even more daring. They have been known to attack larger animals, such as deer and elk calves.
What is a Bald Eagle’s Wingspan?
A Bald eagle’s wingspan ranges from 5 feet 9 inches to over 7 feet 5 inches (179 to 228 cm).
Females have a larger wingspan and are capable of diving at speeds of 75 to nearly 100 mph (120 to 160 km).
Largest Eagle in the World:
The Philippine Eagle is the longest eagle, with the longest wingspan, measuring 2.80 to 3.35 feet (85 to 102 cm).
In terms of weight and size, the Steller’s Sea Eagle and the Harpy Eagle are the largest. Larger females weigh 20 pounds (9.07 kg) or more.
What is a Group of Eagles Called?
A group of eagles is called a ‘convocation’.
How Much Weight Can an Eagle Carry?
Eagles are ambitious hunters and often take on prey that is too big for them to lift. They also have to lift heavy objects, such as tree branches when they are building or maintaining their nests.
There is photographic evidence of eagles carrying 12-pound branches, as well as animals and fish that weigh this amount.
~ Fun Fact ~
An eagle’s prey consists of all types smaller mammals and reptiles, for the most part. However, these birds have been known to go after prey that is much larger than they are. Animals like Impala calves, lambs, and even larger tortoises have been killed by the Martial Eagle, which can be up to 5-8 times their size.
Resources:
http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=wildlifenews.view_article&articles_id=343
https://www.nationaleaglecenter.org/learn/biology/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eagle