Bald Eagle (Juvenile) or Golden Eagle? (1 Viewer)

J

JakeHall89

New member

• Apr 27, 2014

• #1

So I recently spent some time on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada where I happened across these beauties. The first (bird in flight) I suspect is an adolescent bald eagle but i'm not sure, it was considerably larger than the other bald eagles I had photographed that day. The second (bird on perch) was considerably bigger again, looks matured to me and I'd like to know what it is. At this stage I think it's a golden eagle.

I should clarify that these are two different birds.

After googling the differences between golden eagles and juvenile bald eagles I still can't figure out which these are, help!

 

Attachments

• 
  IMG_9829.jpg

  144.3 KB · Views: 102
• 
  IMG_9759.jpg

  384.2 KB · Views: 98

M

MrBiffa

Well-known member

• Apr 27, 2014

• #2

juvenile golden

 

lou salomon

the birdonist

• Apr 27, 2014

• #3

both are young bald eagles.

 

RJP

Well-known member

• Apr 27, 2014

• #4

Agree with Lou - both Balds. How can we tell? First, really large bills. Second, immature Goldens are entirely dark underneath, except for a white spot about 2/3 way down each wing, and some white on the tail.

Size differences are very hard to judge unless the birds are right next to each other. However, on immature hawks like Red-taileds, the wings and tail are in fact a bit longer than they are on adults - sort of like "training wheels" while they are becoming expert flyers. I assume with eagles it's the same way.

 

B

Boro Birder

Well-known member

• Apr 27, 2014

• #5

Yeah also agree, both birds Bald Eagle (juvenile)


Damian

 

J

JakeHall89

New member

• Apr 27, 2014

• #6

thanks guys!

 

M

MrBiffa

Well-known member

• Apr 27, 2014

• #7

Sorry I'll take that wink back

 

Valéry Schollaert

Respect animals, don't eat or wear their body or s

• Apr 27, 2014

• #8

Hi JakeHall89,

Gorgeous pics of Bald Eagles! Well done and welcome on Birdforum!