Always wonder where to find Eagles in North Carolina? These amazing raptors, known for their great wingspans and sharp hunting skills, greatly influences the surroundings of the state.
North Carolina has both bald and golden eagles. The state’s growing conservation programs have helped eagle numbers rise, therefore giving more opportunities for wildlife lovers to see them in the wild.
This guide about eagles in North Carolina covers in great depth the ecosystems, viewing sites, differences between hawks and eagles, conservation projects, and their relevance in sports culture.
Eagle forms in North Carolina:
The two major types of eagles seen in North Carolina are bald and golden ones. Among the most powerful and amazing raptors in the region are those with unique adaptations allowing them to thrive in many environments.
Although bald eagles are more common, golden eagles do sometimes fly over the region.
Bald Eagles in North Carolina:
The bald eagle, scientifically known as Haliaeetus leucocephalus, is the national bird of the United States of America and a world-renowned raptor. North Carolina is a possible sighting. Its magnificent white plumage contrasts sharply with its dark brown body.
The incredible recovery of these birds from the verge of extinction serves as a powerful metaphor for resilience, independence, and fortitude.
Physical Features:
- Longest possible wing span: 6–7.5 feet (1.8–2.3 meters)
- Height: 8 to 14 inches (3.6 to 6.3 kg)
- Wild life expectancy is 20–30 years, however in captivity it may reach 50 years!
- Adult bald eagles are easily identifiable by their dark brown bodies, golden beaks, and white crowns and tails.
- Around the ages of four or five, the feather pattern changes from dark brown to white.
Habitat & Distribution:
Wetland habitats, especially those close to major lakes, rivers, estuaries, and coastal regions, are home to bald eagles. In North Carolina, they are particularly noticeable in places where fish populations are high. Here are the North Carolina’s Best Places to See Bald Eagles:
- Jordan Lake is home to one of the state’s largest concentrations of bald eagles.
- Near Raleigh, at Falls Lake,
- Lake Mattamuskeet, a popular destination in winter
- Cape Fear River Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
Diet & Hunting Behavior:
Bald eagles are opportunistic hunters, meaning they eat whatever is most available. Their diet mainly consists of:
- Fish (such as shad, catfish, and mullet) – their primary food source
- Waterfowl (ducks, coots, and gulls)
- Small mammals (rabbits, squirrels, and muskrats)
- Carrion (scavenging on dead animals, including roadkill and fish remains)
- Piracy – They often steal fish from other birds, such as ospreys, using their aggressive aerial attacks.
Nesting & Reproduction:
Bald eagles mate for life and return to the same nesting sites every year. Their nests, called aeries, are among the largest bird nests in the world.
- Nest Location: Built high in tall trees near water sources
- Size: Can reach 6 feet wide and weigh over 1,000 pounds
- Eggs: 1 to 3 eggs per breeding season
- Incubation: Around 35 days
- Fledgling Period: Young eagles leave the nest after 10 to 12 weeks
Due to the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, disturbing an eagle’s nest is illegal, as it can harm their breeding success.
Conservation & Population Trends:
However, conservation efforts, such as the Endangered Species Act, helped their population recover.
- In the 1980s: North Carolina had fewer than 10 nesting pairs.
- By the 2000s: The numbers increased significantly.
- Today: North Carolina has over 300 nesting pairs and a steadily growing population.
Golden Eagles in North Carolina:
Compared to bald eagles, the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is less prevalent in North Carolina. These birds hunt animals rather than fish and are usually found in open, hilly environments. Golden eagles are rarely spotted close to water, in contrast to bald eagles.
Physical Characteristics:
- Wingspan: 6 to 7.5 feet (1.8 to 2.3 meters)
- Weight: 6 to 15 pounds (2.7 to 6.8 kg)
- Lifespan: 20 to 30 years in the wild
- Appearance:
- Named for their golden-brown plumage on the head and neck.
- Dark brown bodies with large, powerful talons.
- Juveniles have white patches on their wings and tails.
Golden eagles are one of the fastest birds in the world, capable of diving at speeds of up to 200 mph (322 km/h) when hunting prey.
Habitat & Distribution:
Golden eagles prefer:
- Mountainous regions (such as the Appalachian Mountains)
- Grasslands and open fields
- Remote, undisturbed landscapes
They are most commonly sighted in western North Carolina, particularly during migration. They are not permanent residents but travel through the state in small numbers.
Diet & Hunting Behavior:
Unlike bald eagles, which rely on fish, golden eagles are skilled hunters that target land-based prey. Their diet includes:
- Rabbits and hares (primary food source)
- Squirrels and marmots
- Game birds (pheasants, grouse, and even turkeys)
- Reptiles (snakes and lizards)
- Carrion (they scavenge dead animals, especially in winter)
Golden eagles may swoop down from tremendous heights or seize prey in midair with their swiftness and strong talons. They frequently hunt in pairs, with one eagle pursuing its prey while the other hovers overhead.
Nesting & Reproduction:
Golden eagles build large nests in cliffs, trees, and even man-made structures. Their nesting behavior differs from bald eagles:
- Nest Size: Can grow over 5 feet wide
- Location: Prefers remote areas, such as cliffs or high trees
- Eggs: Typically lays 2 eggs per season
- Incubation: Around 45 days
- Fledgling Period: Young eagles leave the nest after 10 to 12 weeks.
Conservation & Population Trends:
To protect golden eagles, wildlife organizations focus on preserving natural habitats and reducing human disturbances in key migration areas. Golden eagles are not endangered, but their population in North Carolina remains low. They face threats such as:
- Habitat loss due to land development.
- Wind turbine collisions, which have been responsible for eagle deaths.
- Lead poisoning from scavenging animals shot with lead bullets.
Bald Eagles vs. Golden Eagles – Key Differences:
| Feature | Bald Eagle | Golden Eagle |
| Habitat | Lakes, rivers, coastal regions | Mountains, grasslands, open areas |
| Diet | Fish, waterfowl, carrion | Mammals, birds, reptiles, carrion |
| Nesting Sites | Tall trees near water | Cliffs, tall trees in remote areas |
| Coloration | White head and tail, dark brown body | Golden-brown head and dark brown body |
| Hunting Style | Scavenger, fish hunter | Powerful hunter, fast dives |
| Speed | Up to 100 mph | Up to 200 mph |
Both eagles are top predators in their environments, but they differ significantly in habitat, diet, and behavior.
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Where to find Eagles in North Carolina?
Bald eagles prefer habitats with access to water. Below are the best locations to spot them:
| Location | Region | Best Time to Visit |
| Jordan Lake | Central NC | Fall to Early Spring |
| Lake Mattamuskeet | Coastal NC | Winter |
| Falls Lake | Near Raleigh | Year-round |
| Alligator River NWR | Outer Banks | Winter |
| Lake Norman | Piedmont NC | Year-round |
| Cape Fear River | Southeast NC | Year-round |
The Jordan Lake area has one of the highest concentrations of bald eagle in North Carolina. Many of these locations also attract other birds of prey, making them great for birdwatching.
North Carolina Eagles in Sports:
In North Carolina athletics, eagles are a potent emblem that stands for fortitude, agility, and tenacity. The eagle is proudly used as the mascot by several teams across the state, ranging from high schools to colleges.
North Carolina Eagles Football:
Playing for North Carolina Central University (NCCU) in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), the North Carolina Eagles are an NCAA Division I football team. They have a solid reputation in college football and are well-known for their tenacity and spirit of competition.
The eagle, which represents strength and leadership on the field, is also the mascot of several high schools in the state.
North Carolina Eagles Basketball:
With skill and tenacity, the North Carolina Central Eagles basketball team plays at the NCAA Division I level. The team’s battling spirit is personified by the eagle mascot, which motivates both players and supporters.
The eagle, which stands for excellence and the desire of win, is still a prominent sports emblem across North Carolina.
Eagles in South Carolina – A Comparison:
Eagles in South Carolina have similar habitats, but their numbers are slightly lower than in North Carolina.
| Feature | North Carolina | South Carolina |
| Bald Eagle Population | Over 300 pairs | Around 200 pairs |
| Golden Eagles | Rare sightings | More common in mountains |
Both states share a commitment to eagle conservation and protection.
FAQs:
What kind of eagles live in North Carolina?
Neither bald nor golden eagles live in Maine. A lot of people see bald eagles, but not many people see golden eagles. When they migrate, you can usually see them in the western part of the state.
How rare is it to see an eagle?
There are more and more bald eagles in North Carolina, especially near rivers and lakes. Golden eagles, on the other hand, are much less common and are mostly seen in the Appalachians.
How do you identify an eagle?
The head and tail of a bald eagle are white. The body is dark brown, and the beak is yellow. The whole body of a golden eagle is dark brown, and the feathers on its head and neck are golden. Their wings are 6 to 7.5 feet long, which is pretty big.
What is the difference between a hawk and an eagle?
Eagles are bigger, stronger, and their wings are wider than hawks’. As they fly higher, they hunt bigger animals. Hawks, on the other hand, are faster and hunt smaller animals.
How many eagles are in North Carolina?
Over 300 pairs of bald eagles nest in North Carolina. We don’t know how many golden eagles live in the state because they only go through it on their way to other places.
Conclusion:
The return of eagles to North Carolina is an amazing success story for wildlife. These beautiful birds were almost extinct, but strong protection efforts have helped them come back.
People who want to see eagles in their natural environment should go to Jordan Lake, Lake Mattamuskeet, or the Outer Banks. Eagles can live here all year because they have access to food, protection, and places to nest.
We can make sure that future generations will be able to enjoy seeing eagles fly through the skies of North Carolina by continuing to protect their surroundings and fund conservation programs.