5 Types Of Eagles In Ontario (2024)

Eagles are majestic birds and can be found in many different parts of the world. In Ontario, Canada there are three distinct species of eagles that can be found. Each species of eagle has its own unique characteristics and habitat preference, making them an interesting and exciting species to observe.

The five types of Eagles in Ontario include the Bald Eagle, Golden Eagle, Northern Harrier, Rough-legged Hawk and Red-Tailed Hawk. These birds prefer to nest in cliffs and canyons and can be seen hunting in open fields. Eagles typically inhabit grassland and marshland areas and can be seen in these habitats hunting for small rodents and birds.

5 Types Of Eagles In Ontario

1. Bald Eagle

The Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is one of the most iconic five types of eagles in Ontario, Canada. It is a large bird of prey and the national bird of the United States. It is easily recognizable by its white head and tail, which contrast with its mostly brown body.

The Bald Eagle is a permanent resident of Ontario, and can be found in a variety of habitats throughout the province, including marshes, lakes, rivers, and forests. They typically nest in tall trees near bodies of water and feed mainly on fish, but will also take small mammals and birds.

Bald Eagles are apex predators in Ontario and help control populations of fish and other animals. They are also important for maintaining healthy forests and wetlands, which are essential for maintaining biodiversity.

Bald Eagles can be spotted in Ontario year-round, but they are especially visible during the winter months when they gather in large numbers to feed on fish. They can also be seen in the spring, when they return to the province to breed.

Bald Eagles are an important part of the Ontario ecosystem and are a symbol of the province’s natural beauty. They play an important role in conservation and are an important part of the local culture and identity.

2. Golden Eagle

The Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is a species of large bird of prey found in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. It is the largest of the eagle species found in Ontario, Canada, and is one of the most iconic and recognizable birds in the world.

The Golden Eagle is a large bird, with a wingspan of up to 8 feet (2.4 meters). Its body is brown in color, while its head and tail are a bright golden color. They have powerful wings and talons, and can reach speeds of up to 200 miles (320 kilometers) per hour when in flight.

Golden Eagles are mainly found in open areas such as grasslands and mountains, but they can also be found in areas near rivers and large lakes. They feed mainly on small mammals, such as rabbits and hares, as well as birds, reptiles, and fish.

The Golden Eagle is an important part of the Canadian and Ontario landscape, and is a symbol of strength and resilience. It is an important part of the food chain, and its presence can be an indicator of a healthy and diverse ecosystem. Protecting this species is essential to maintaining healthy and sustainable ecosystems in the province.

3. Northern Harrier

The Northern Harrier is a species of eagle found in Ontario and across North America. It is a medium-sized raptor with a wingspan of up to four feet and a body length of up to two feet. The Northern Harrier is a unique raptor in that it has a distinctive owl-like facial disc, and its tail is longer than its wings, giving it a distinct silhouette.

The Northern Harrier is a year-round resident of Ontario, breeding in open and partially wooded areas in the spring. They feed primarily on small mammals, birds, and insects. They hunt by flying low over open fields, often hovering over them and waiting for prey to move.

The Northern Harrier is a unique species of eagle and one of the few raptors that is monogamous, with one male and one female usually staying together for life. The male and female have different plumage colors and patterns, with the male having a gray body and white head and underparts, and the female having a brown body with a streaked white head and underparts.

4. Rough-legged Hawk

The Rough-legged Hawk (Buteo lagopus) is a large bird of prey found throughout Ontario. It is one of the few species of eagles that can be found in the province, and is the only one with feathers extending down to the feet.

The Rough-legged Hawk is a medium-sized raptor, with a wingspan of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters). Its wings are broad and rounded, and its tail is short, fan-shaped and square-tipped. It has a white head and breast, with dark gray back and wings. Its legs are feathered, with brown and white barring.

The Rough-legged Hawk is found in open areas and grasslands during the summer months, and in wooded areas during the winter. It feeds primarily on small mammals, such as voles, lemmings, and mice. When hunting, it will hover in the air and then swoop down to catch its prey.

In Ontario, the Rough-legged Hawk is considered a rare species, but it is not listed as at risk. Its population is considered stable, and it is not listed as threatened or endangered.

The Rough-legged Hawk is a protected species in Canada, and it is illegal to hunt or disturb these birds. The best way to observe them is from a distance, and to not disturb their natural habitat.

5. Red-tailed Hawk

The Red-tailed Hawk is one of the most common and widely distributed hawks found in North America. This majestic bird of prey is a common sight in Ontario, where it can be found throughout the year.

The Red-tailed Hawk is a large, soaring bird of prey, easily identified by its reddish tail feathers. Its wingspan can reach up to 4 feet, and its body length can reach up to 22 inches. Its wings are broad and rounded, and its head is covered in white feathers. It has a dark bill and yellow legs.

The Red-tailed Hawk is an opportunistic eater, preying upon small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. It will also scavenge carrion and even sometimes steal food from other birds.

The Red-tailed Hawk is a monogamous species, and pairs may stay together for many years. It builds its nest in a variety of locations, including trees, cliffs, walls, and even on the ground. The female typically lays two to four eggs, which are incubated by both parents for about 28 days.

The Red-tailed Hawk is a protected species in Ontario and is considered a species of special concern. It is estimated that there are approximately 4,000 breeding pairs in the province. This species is important to the environment, as it helps to control populations of small mammals and other prey.

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Conclusion

Ontario is home to five distinct species of eagles: the Bald Eagle, the Golden Eagle, the Northern Harrier, Rough-legged Hawk, and Red-Tailed Hawk. Each of the five types of eagles in Ontario has its own unique characteristics and preferences when it comes to habitats.

All five species of eagles can be seen in different parts of Ontario, providing birdwatchers with the opportunity to observe these majestic birds in their natural environment.