11 Types of Eagles in Indiana
Yes, there are two types of eagles that can be found in Indiana: the bald eagle and the golden eagle. While bald eagles are a common and widespread resident across the state, golden eagles are much rarer and are typically seen only during the winter months. Both species are magnificent birds of prey that rely on Indiana's diverse landscapes, from the coastal dunes of the north to the forested hills and large reservoirs of the south, for hunting and nesting.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 30, 2026.
Verified species, source iNaturalist
11 types of eagles recorded in Indiana
11 eagle species have a verified observation record in Indiana across the hawk and eagle family (Accipitridae), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
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Plus 3 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
More on eagles in Indiana:
Yes, there are two types of eagles that can be found in Indiana: the bald eagle and the golden eagle. While bald eagles are a common and widespread resident across the state, golden eagles are much rarer and are typically seen only during the winter months. Both species are magnificent birds of prey that rely on Indiana's diverse landscapes, from the coastal dunes of the north to the forested hills and large reservoirs of the south, for hunting and nesting.
What is the bald eagle in Indiana?
The bald eagle is the most well-known and common eagle type in Indiana. Once endangered, they have made a spectacular recovery and are now found nesting in almost every county. They are primarily fish-eaters and are most often seen near large lakes and rivers, such as the Indiana Dunes and Patoka Lake, where they can easily find food.
What is the golden eagle in Indiana?
The golden eagle is a rare winter visitor to Indiana. Unlike bald eagles, they prefer more open, hilly terrain and hunt small mammals like rabbits and squirrels. They are most frequently spotted in the more rugged parts of southern Indiana, such as the Hoosier National Forest and Brown County, where the landscape more closely resembles their western home.
How do the two eagle types differ?
The main differences are their appearance and habitat. Adult bald eagles have the iconic white head and tail, while golden eagles are a uniform dark brown with golden-buff feathers on their nape. Bald eagles are closely tied to water and fish, while golden eagles are more terrestrial and prefer hunting in open fields and forests. Bald eagles are also slightly larger on average than golden eagles.
Where can you see both types in Indiana?
The best chance to see both types of eagles is in the larger state parks and wildlife areas during the winter. The Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge and the areas around the large reservoirs in southern Indiana are good locations. While bald eagles will be easy to find, spotting a golden eagle requires a lot of patience and a good pair of binoculars.
Are there other large birds mistaken for eagles?
Yes, the turkey vulture is frequently mistaken for an eagle at a distance. However, vultures fly with their wings in a 'V' shape and have a rocking flight pattern, while eagles hold their wings perfectly flat. In the Kankakee marsh country, you might also see sandhill cranes, which are large and gray but have a completely different silhouette and flight pattern than eagles.
How many eagles live in Indiana today?
Indiana is now home to over 350 active bald eagle nesting pairs, a massive increase from the early 1980s when there were none. The population continues to grow and expand into new areas. In contrast, golden eagles do not nest in Indiana; only a small number, likely fewer than 50 individuals, winter in the state each year before returning to their northern breeding grounds.
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Frequently asked questions
What types of eagles live in Indiana?+
The bald eagle is the most well-known and common eagle type in Indiana. Once endangered, they have made a spectacular recovery and are now found nesting in almost every county. They are primarily fish-eaters and are most often seen near large lakes and rivers, such as the Indiana Dunes and Patoka Lake, where they can easily find food.
How do you tell eagles apart in Indiana?+
The bald eagle is the most well-known and common eagle type in Indiana. Once endangered, they have made a spectacular recovery and are now found nesting in almost every county. They are primarily fish-eaters and are most often seen near large lakes and rivers, such as the Indiana Dunes and Patoka Lake, where they can easily find food.
Which eagle is most common in Indiana?+
The bald eagle is the most well-known and common eagle type in Indiana. Once endangered, they have made a spectacular recovery and are now found nesting in almost every county. They are primarily fish-eaters and are most often seen near large lakes and rivers, such as the Indiana Dunes and Patoka Lake, where they can easily find food.
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