The adult Bald Eagle is one of the most recognizable birds in the world. However, immature Bald Eagles and adults viewed from a distance can be challenging. We've provided some hints, below, to help you distinguish Bald Eagles from similar-looking species across the continent.

Turkey Vulture: Sometimes confused with immature Bald Eagle, especially in more southerly areas where Turkey Vultures are common in winter. Turkey Vultures have a silver-and-black underwing pattern and also fly with wings held in a shallow V. Often seen over open country, woodlands, and farm areas.

Black Vulture: From a distance, can easily be mistaken for Bald Eagles, since both have large, flat wings. Look for very short tail and quick, choppy wing flaps (Bald Eagle's are slow and powerful). Close looks reveal white at tips of underwings.

Golden Eagle: Can be confused with immature balds. Bald Eagle has proportionately shorter tail and larger head. Often soars with somewhat uplifted wings, compared to "flat" look of Bald Eagles. White on wings and tail of immature goldens more clearly demarcated than on balds.

Osprey: Ospreys have all-white bodies, easily seen in flight. Note, though, that third-year eagles can have extensive white underneath. If perched, look for a dark eye-stripe on the Osprey's small, white head. Ospreys are always found near open water, and in winter in U.S., only in southern Florida.

Other "Big, Dark Birds": Be careful not to assume large, dark, soaring birds are Bald Eagles. From a distance, and especially in poor light, Red-tailed Hawks, Ferruginous Hawks, and even Rough-legged Hawks can appear larger than they actually are, suggesting an eagle. Although less likely to be confusing, a distant Common Raven (a relatively large, all-black bird with large bill and wedge-shaped tail) might also fool the uninitiated. Gulls often soar high as well, and from a distance, immatures of larger species can appear darker and larger than they may actually be, suggesting an eagle. Viewed from above, an adult Great Black-backed Gull, with its white head and tail along with black wings and back, may superficially resemble an adult Bald Eagle. Always pay close attention to the wing flap; Bald Eagle wing flaps are slow and powerful.