Definition

Noun A large bird of prey (eagle) native to North America, characterized by distinctive white feathers on its head and tail, contrasting with a dark brown body and wings. It is the national bird and symbol of the United States of America.

Usage

This term is the formal scientific (binomial) name for the species commonly known as the bald eagle. It is used primarily in academic, zoological, and ornithological contexts.

Examples

• The recovery of the Haliaeetus leucocephalus population is a major conservation success story.
• Haliaeetus leucocephalus builds some of the largest nests of any North American bird.
• Ornithologists study the migratory patterns of Haliaeetus leucocephalus.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic classification, the genus name (sea eagles) is always capitalized, while the species epithet is not. The full binomial name is italicized in print.
• The name is derived from Greek: (sea), (eagle), (white), and (headed).

Variants and Related Words

• Bald eagle: The universal common name for this species.
• Sea eagle: A common name for birds of the genus .
• Haliaeetus: The genus encompassing sea eagles and fish eagles.

Synonyms

• Bald eagle
• American eagle

Related Phrases and Terms

• National emblem: The bald eagle () serves as the national emblem of the United States.
• Apex predator: As a top predator, plays a crucial role in its ecosystem.

Noun

1. a large eagle of North America that has a white head and dark wings and body