Bald Eagle by Taha Qayyum 5D

Table of Contents1 .. Introduction2 .. Diet3 .. Habitat4 .. Conclusion5 .. Bibliography

IntroductionIn this research report I will be talking about the Bald Eagle. I will focus on their habitat and their diet.

Diet

Bald Eagle Eating seafood Bald Eagle Eating rabbit

In the wild, and depending on its availability, the bald eagle's diet consists of 70-90% fish. Just as humans require a varied and balanced diet, bald eagles do not exist on fish alone. The remaining 10-30% of the eagle diet varies from small mammals to waterfowl to varied forms of aquatic life. This variety contributes to the eagle's health. For instance, occasionally the bald eagle may feed on a rabbit or other small mammal. The bald eagle consumes the bones of fish without problem. However, the bones and fur of the rabbit or other small mammal must be stored in a special section of the bald eagle's throat called the crop. Eventually the fur and bones are semi-digested and form a small pellet which the eagle spits or casts out of its mouth. The dietary change which requires the use of the crop may perform a necessary health function for the bald eagle.

Habitat

The most essential component of the Bald Eagles habitat is a foraging area. Large open areas of lakes, rivers, shorelines, or other sources of open water are needed where prey can be hunted and eaten. The Bald Eagle, also known as the Sea Eagle, has a diet consisting of 70-80% fish or other aquatic life; therefore, the water provides its major source of food.The Bald Eagle's range, or where the Bald Eagle lives and nests, covers all of North America including Canada and Mexico. Historically, the Bald Eagle lived in all 48 lower states. Bald Eagle populations have never been endangered in Alaska where they remain abundant despite many attempts by man to destroy those populations. The only U. S. state where Bald Eagles are not present is Hawaii.When the Bald Eagle mates, after it reaches maturity around 4 to 5 years of age, it will return to within 75 miles of its first flight to build a nest.For a species to survive it must have food, shelter, and protection from its enemies. Since the adult Bald Eagle has no known natural predators, the only other species that poses a threat is man. It is up to us to ensure that the Bald Eagle meets its basic habitat requirements.

ConclusionIn conclusion, the Bald Eagles diet and its habitat are extremely interesting topics. In my opinion, these beautiful birds are powerful creatures.

Bibliography American Eagle Foundation (A resource unit originally developed by The Learning Technology Center of Vanderbilt University). eagles.org, http://www.americaneaglefoundation.com/about/site-map.php