By Avian Feathers Team
Published June 2025
Arizona’s wide skies and rugged landscapes make it a perfect home for some of the most powerful birds in North America. Eagles are bold, impressive, and surprisingly watchful. You just have to know where to look.
Some live here year-round. Others are rare visitors from faraway places. All are unforgettable to see in the wild.
Here are 5 eagles that you can spot in Arizona:
1. Bald Eagle
Bald Eagles are the most famous eagles in the United States. In Arizona, they are often found near lakes and rivers, where they hunt for fish. Adults have a white head and tail with a dark brown body. They are most active in the winter, but many stay year-round.
Size
Length: 28–40 inches.
Wingspan: 6–8 feet.
Weight: 6–14 pounds.
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus leucocephalus
2. Golden Eagle
Golden Eagles are strong, fast and love open spaces. You will usually find them in Arizona’s deserts, cliffs and high country. They are dark brown with golden feathers on the back of the head. These eagles hunt rabbits, ground squirrels and even snakes.
Size
Length: 27–33 inches.
Wingspan: 6–7.5 feet.
Weight: 7–14 pounds.
Scientific Name: Aquila chrysaetos
3. Crested Caracara
While not a true eagle, the Crested Caracara is often mistaken for one. It has a bold black cap, white neck and a striking orange face. These birds are actually part of the falcon family. In Arizona, they are mostly seen in the southern deserts, often walking on the ground or perched on cacti.
Size
Length: 20–25 inches.
Wingspan: 47–52 inches.
Weight: 1.75–3.5 pounds.
Scientific Name: Caracara plancus
4. Steller's Sea Eagle (Rare Visitor)
This massive eagle is native to Russia and Asia but has been spotted in North America a few times, including extremely rare sightings in the West. It has a dark body, bold white patches and a huge yellow beak. If you ever see one in Arizona, it would be a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Size
Length: 34–41 inches.
Wingspan: 7.5–8.2 feet.
Weight: 15–20 pounds.
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus pelagicus
5. White-tailed Eagle (Extremely Rare Visitor)
This eagle usually lives in Europe and Asia. It has only been spotted a few times in North America. White-tailed Eagles look similar to Bald Eagles but have broader wings and a shorter neck. Sightings in Arizona are extremely rare but possible.
Size
Length: 27–37 inches.
Wingspan: 6.5–8 feet.
Weight: 9–15 pounds.
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus albicilla
Arizona is an awesome place to see all sorts of cool birds, especially those big, powerful ones called raptors. You can spot the famous Bald Eagle flying near lakes, and the mighty Golden Eagle soaring high above the wide-open deserts and mountains. Even a neat-looking bird called the Crested Caracara adds to all the different birds you can find here.
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 Arizona
Arizona’s open deserts, deep canyons, and sparkling lakes create the perfect mix of habitats for these impressive eagles. Some can be seen all year long, while others only show up during winter or as rare surprises. Grab your binoculars and head to these spots for your best chance.
Bald Eagle. Look near lakes and rivers like Lake Pleasant, Roosevelt Lake, and along the Salt and Verde Rivers. Winter is best, but some stay in Arizona all year.
Golden Eagle. Found in open spaces such as grasslands, canyons, and high desert cliffs. Try places like the Mogollon Rim, Vermilion Cliffs, and San Rafael Valley.
Crested Caracara. Search the southern deserts, especially around the Sonoran Desert, Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, and near the Arizona-Mexico border.
Steller’s Sea Eagle. This is a rare visitor. If one appears, birdwatchers will usually hear about it through local bird alerts or reports from major wildlife areas.
White-tailed Eagle. Extremely rare in Arizona. Watch birding networks and rare sighting updates. If one is ever spotted, it would likely be near a major water source.
Eagles in Arizona bring mystery, power, and a touch of wild beauty. Whether you’re scanning a desert sky or waiting patiently by a riverbank, the next eagle you see might just take your breath away.