Eagles are majestic and powerful birds that have fascinated mankind for centuries. Known for their keen vision, powerful flight, and strong talons, these birds of prey represent strength and resilience in nature. They are true symbols of power and there is even a legend about their longevity.
Species of eagles
There are more than 60 species of eagles worldwide, distributed mainly in Africa, Eurasia and America. These birds of prey vary in size, habitat and diet, adapting to different environments, from dense forests to mountains and coasts. The best known are:
Golden Eagle
It lives in North America, Eurasia and North Africa. Its dark brown plumage and the golden feathers on its nape make it unmistakable. With an impressive wingspan and powerful flight, the golden eagle hunts large prey such as deer and goats.
Bald eagle
It is the national bird of the United States. Its dark brown body and white head make it easily recognizable. It symbolizes freedom and independence.
Harpy eagle
It is one of the largest and most powerful birds of prey. It lives in Central and South America. Its distinctive crest and extremely strong claws allow it to hunt monkeys and sloths.
Characteristics of eagles
Eagles have incredibly keen vision. They can spot prey from great heights. This ability allows them to hunt accurately and effectively. Their eyes have a special structure that amplifies their visual ability, allowing them to see at great distances.
With long, muscular wings, they can fly at high speed and with agility, reaching impressive altitudes. They also take advantage of air currents to glide for long periods.
Their claws are incredibly powerful. They are curved and sharp and are designed to catch and hold their prey. They can use them to hunt a variety of animals, from fish to large mammals.
The Legend of the Eagle’s Longevity
A popular legend says that eagles can live up to 70 years, but only if they go through a painful mid-life renewal process. According to this story, at age 40, the eagle retires to a nest on a mountaintop. There, it undergoes a necessary change that will allow it to live for decades longer.
It begins by hitting its beak against a rock until it falls. Then a stronger and sharper beak grows. With its beak it cuts off its two claws one by one and new ones grow that are much stronger than the previous ones. To finish with its new claws it plucks out each of its feathers to give way to new, lighter and much brighter plumage.
According to legend, this painful transformation lasts 150 days, but then the eagle re-emerges much stronger and more powerful.
Although the story is fascinating, it has no scientific basis. Eagles live between 20 and 30 years in the wild. Some can live longer in captivity. The eagle’s longevity is due more to its ability to adapt and survive than to a mythical process of renewal.
Eagles are true symbols of strength and resilience. Their physical characteristics and skills allow them to dominate the skies and hunt effectively. Although the legend of their longevity is more myth than reality, it does not diminish the admiration that these birds command.