By Avian Feathers Team
Published June 2025
Florida isn’t just about beaches and sunshine. It’s also home to some powerful birds of prey. If you look up near lakes, rivers, or wide open skies, you might just spot one of these incredible eagles. Some are locals. Others are rare visitors. All of them are impressive.
1. Bald Eagle
The Bald Eagle is Florida’s most famous raptor. With its white head, yellow beak and huge wingspan, it’s hard to miss. These birds are strong, graceful and often found near lakes or coastal marshes. Florida has one of the largest Bald Eagle populations in the U.S. You’ll often see them soaring high or perched on tall trees near water.
Size
Length: 28–40 in (71–102 cm)
Wingspan: 71–91 in (1.8–2.3 m)
Weight: 6.5–14 lbs (3–6.3 kg)
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus leucocephalus
2. Golden Eagle
Golden Eagles are rare in Florida. They usually stick to the western U.S., but some show up in the Florida Panhandle during winter. These eagles are all brown with golden feathers on the back of the neck. They’re powerful hunters and prefer remote forests and open hills. If you spot one in Florida, consider yourself lucky.
Size
Length: 26–40 in (66–102 cm)
Wingspan: 71–92 in (1.8–2.3 m)
Weight: 6–15 lbs (2.7–6.8 kg)
Scientific Name: Aquila chrysaetos
3. Steller’s Sea Eagle
This eagle is a giant, even bigger than a Bald Eagle. Native to Russia and eastern Asia, it’s one of the rarest birds to ever appear in the U.S. But recently, one was spotted making an incredible journey across North America. Birders were stunned when it appeared in the eastern U.S., including sightings near Florida. It has a huge yellow beak and bold black-and-white feathers.
Size
Length: 33–41 in (85–105 cm)
Wingspan: 79–98 in (2–2.5 m)
Weight: 11–20 lbs (5–9 kg)
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus pelagicus
4. White-tailed Eagle
Another rare visitor, the White-tailed Eagle is native to Europe and Asia. It looks a bit like a Bald Eagle but has a pale head and tail without the sharp color contrast. Sightings in Florida are extremely rare, but not impossible. If one shows up, birders will travel for miles just to catch a glimpse.
Size
Length: 27–37 in (69–94 cm)
Wingspan: 79–96 in (2–2.45 m)
Weight: 7.9–15.4 lbs (3.6–7 kg)
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus albicilla
From the bold Bald Eagle to the rare White-tailed and Steller’s Sea Eagles, Florida’s skies can hold some incredible surprises. Whether you’re near a peaceful lake or out in the wild Panhandle, you never know when an eagle might appear. Their power, size, and grace in flight make them unforgettable to see in person.
Have you spotted any of these amazing raptors? Keep your binoculars ready and your eyes on the sky. You might just catch a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse.
Sometimes, super rare birds like the Steller’s Sea Eagle or White-tailed Eagle might even show up! It’s like finding a hidden treasure. These amazing birds show us how wild and beautiful Arizona really is. They’re strong and impressive, and if you’re lucky enough to see one, you won’t forget it.
Where to Spot Eagles in Florida
Florida’s mix of wetlands, forests, and coastal areas makes it a great place to see eagles. Some are common and easy to find, while others are extremely rare. Knowing where to look can make all the difference.
Bald Eagle. Found all over Florida, especially near lakes, rivers, and coastal marshes. Look in places like the Everglades, Lake Kissimmee, and Ocala National Forest.
Golden Eagle. Rare winter visitors to the Panhandle. Try remote wooded areas and open spaces in northwestern Florida.
Steller’s Sea Eagle. A very rare visitor. If spotted, news usually spreads fast through birding groups. Sightings may occur anywhere during migration detours.
White-tailed Eagle. Extremely rare in Florida. If one appears, it will likely be near large bodies of water. Watch for updates from local birdwatching communities.
Seeing an eagle in Florida is always a thrill. Whether common or rare, each one is a powerful reminder of the wild beauty above.
Have you ever spotted one of these incredible eagles?