8 Types of Eagles in Delaware

Bald Eagles are much larger than Golden Eagles and have distinctive white head and neck markings on a dark body. Adult Bald Eagles are unmistakable. Golden Eagles are all dark brown and smaller, with a golden-tinged crown visible in good light. Golden Eagles are extremely rare in Delaware and sightings are not guaranteed. If you see an eagle in Delaware, it is almost certainly a Bald Eagle.

Only one Bald Eagle species exists, Haliaeetus leucocephalus. Adults have a white head, neck, and tail with a dark brown body and yellow feet. Immature Bald Eagles (under 5 years old) lack the white head and can be confused with other large raptors. They are dark overall with patchy white markings on the wings and body that increase with age. Immatures can be challenging to identify, but they are still much larger than most other birds of prey in the state.

Young Bald Eagles can fool newcomers because they lack the striking white head. Look for their massive size (larger than Red-tailed Hawks), dark brown plumage with white patches on the underwings and sometimes the belly, and pale eye-rings. Their yellow feet and beak become more vivid as they mature. The white patches on the wings are often the best clue. If you spot a large dark eagle with size and power, check nearby areas over multiple visits to watch for maturation patterns.

Bald Eagles migrate from northern regions to Delaware each winter seeking open water and abundant food. Lakes, bays, and rivers that do not freeze attract hundreds of eagles from Canada and the northern United States. Peak numbers occur from December through February. Spring migration begins in March. Summer residents are fewer because breeding habitat and food are more abundant in northern states. Some eagles stay year-round if water remains unfrozen.

Bald Eagles prefer tall, sturdy trees near open water where they can spot fish from great heights. In Delaware, look for them in large trees along the Delaware Bay, Delaware River, Bombay Hook refuge, Prime Hook refuge, and coastal marshes. They often return to the same perch daily. Early morning and late afternoon are best for observation when eagles are most active. Power lines are used occasionally but are riskier than large trees.

Fish are the primary diet of Bald Eagles in Delaware, especially from coastal waters and the bay. They also hunt waterfowl, including ducks and geese, particularly in winter. Occasionally they scavenge carrion. Eagles hunt by perching high and watching the water, then swooping down to snatch prey with their talons. Live fish of 1 to 5 pounds are the ideal size. They can lift prey weighing up to half their body weight.

Golden Eagles are extremely rare in Delaware, appearing only as occasional winter visitors, usually in open country or light woodlands. Sightings are unpredictable and not dependable for casual birders. A few individuals may pass through during migration, particularly November through March. Golden Eagles prefer mountainous or prairie regions and rarely venture to coastal Delaware. If you think you have spotted a Golden Eagle, confirm with experienced local birders or a field guide before reporting it.

Steller's Sea Eagles are found only in Russia and are extremely rare. They are heavier and have darker plumage than Bald Eagles, with yellow feet and a massive, pale bill. Steller's Sea Eagles should never be expected in Delaware. Any large eagle seen in the state will be a Bald Eagle or, very rarely, a Golden Eagle. Steller's Sea Eagles are included here only for complete reference.