Incredible Footage Shows Two Eagles Duelling In the Air, Grasping Talons!

These bald eagles are taking a risk to battle it out in the air but they do not seem to care. They look like feathered trapeze artists as they clasp talons and spiral towards the ground. At the very last moment, they unlock each other and make graceful landings. We don’t get to see if the battle continues on the land!

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Where Do Bald Eagles Normally Live?

Bald eagles have been the national emblem of the United States of America since 1782. They breed in the northern states and when they are not breeding, they are found further south. You will typically find them nesting in forested areas close to large bodies of water. They have a preference for tall, mature coniferous, or deciduous trees because this gives them a great view of their surroundings. If they can, they like to stay away from human development. However, they are willing to tolerate humans if it means that they can get food. Therefore, you may find them congregating around fish processing plants and below dams where there is a high concentration of fish.

Cool Bald Eagle Facts

Bald eagles are an iconic regal bird that has been a spiritual symbol for native people for centuries. They are not actually bald. They were given their name because their white head feathers gleamed in contrast to the chocolate brown coloring of the rest of their body and wings. Here are some cool bald eagle facts.

• Fish make up the largest part of the bald eagle’s diet. Their diet includes salmon, herring, and shad but they are willing to eat many other fish species. They have also been seen feeding on reptiles, amphibians, and even mammals such as rabbits.
• Bald eagles do not eat regularly. They gorge on meals and get very full! Then, they can go for several days, if not weeks, without eating.
• These guys do not always catch their own fish. They have been spotted stealing catches from other birds including ospreys in midair. The cheeky eagles snatch the fish directly out of the osprey’s talons. They have even been seen pinching fish from fishermen.
• Even though these birds usually lead a solitary lifestyle, they have been seen hunting cooperatively and flushing prey towards each other. They also play games. Bald eagles have been seen practicing their skills by passing sticks to each other in midair.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © GUDKOV ANDREY/Shutterstock.com