The Martial Eagle, with an impressive wingspan of 8.5 feet, holds the title of the biggest eagle in the world. These majestic creatures are not just a marvel of nature but also a symbol of strength and freedom. From the powerful Harpy Eagle to the iconic Bald Eagle, each species showcases unique features, making them the rulers of the skies. This article details the top 10 biggest eagles in the world, their features, and their habitats.
Biggest Eagles in the World
At the apex of avian strength, the Martial Eagle reigns supreme. Found in sub-Saharan Africa, it measures up to 8.5 feet in wingspan and weighs approximately 14 pounds. With this immense power, it can knock a grown man off balance, making it the most formidable bird of prey.
Other eagles also dominate the skies with their vast wingspans and robust builds. The Stellar’s Sea Eagle, weighing up to 20 pounds and spanning 8.3 feet, is a striking example. Similarly, the American Bald Eagle, a symbol of freedom, boasts a wingspan of 8.2 feet, taking third place in the list of the world’s largest eagles.
Top 10 Largest Eagles in the World (2024)
Here is the complete list of top 10 largest eagle across globe.
| Rank | Eagle | Wingspan (feet) | Weight (lbs) | Habitat |
| 1 | Martial Eagle | 8.5 | 14 | Sub-Saharan Africa |
| 2 | Stellar’s Sea Eagle | 8.3 | 20 | East Russia, Japan, South Korea |
| 3 | American Bald Eagle | 8.2 | 17 | North America |
| 4 | White-Tailed Eagle | 7.8 | 15 | Europe and Asia |
| 5 | Golden Eagle | 7.5 | 13 | Northern Hemisphere |
| 6 | Wedge-Tailed Eagle | 7.5 | 12 | Australia and New Guinea |
| 7 | Verreaux’s Eagle | 7.7 | 13 | Africa |
| 8 | Harpy Eagle | 6.5 | 18 | Central and South America |
| 9 | Philippine Eagle | 6.5 | 15 | Philippines |
| 10 | Haast Eagle (Extinct) | N/A | 26 | New Zealand |
World’s Largest Eagle: Martial Eagle
Scientific Name: Polemaetus bellicosus
Wingspan: 8.5 feet
Weight: 14 pounds
The Martial Eagle, the world’s largest eagle, resides in sub-Saharan Africa. Known for its immense strength, this eagle preys on a wide variety of animals, including guinea fowl, hyrax, and even small antelopes. Their powerful build and expansive wings enable them to soar effortlessly while hunting. Martial Eagles often maintain two nests for alternating use, a strategy that ensures their safety and efficiency.
Second Largest Eagle in the World: Stellar’s Sea Eagle
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus pelagicus
Wingspan: 8.3 feet
Weight: 20 pounds
The Stellar’s Sea Eagle, known as “O-washi” in Japan, is a majestic bird native to East Russia. These eagles often migrate to Japan and South Korea during summer. Preferring regions rich in salmon, they are versatile hunters, feeding on crabs, shellfish, and other marine life. Unfortunately, they are vulnerable and face conservation challenges.
Third Biggest Eagle in the World: American Bald Eagle
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Wingspan: 8.2 feet
Weight: 17 pounds
The Bald Eagle, the national bird of the United States, symbolizes pride and freedom. These eagles construct massive nests, often near water bodies, and their diet consists primarily of fish and carrion. Capable of reaching speeds of up to 100 mph, they are both majestic and agile.
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Related FAQs About the Biggest Eagles in the World
The Martial Eagle, with an 8.5-foot wingspan, is the biggest eagle in the world.
The Martial Eagle has the largest wingspan of 8.5 feet among living eagles.
The Stellar’s Sea Eagle weighs up to 20 pounds.
The Martial Eagle is found in sub-Saharan Africa.
Yes, the Haast Eagle, the largest eagle by weight, is extinct.
The Stellar’s Sea Eagle is referred to as “O-washi” in Japan.
The Bald Eagle weighs around 17 pounds.
The Bald Eagle is a symbol of freedom in the U.S.
The Philippine Eagle, also known as the monkey-eating eagle, is native to the Philippines.
The Golden Eagle is found in the Northern Hemisphere.
The Bald Eagle can reach speeds of up to 100 mph during flight.
Martial Eagles feed on birds, mammals, and reptiles like hyrax and guinea fowl.
The Haast Eagle, now extinct, was the largest predator in New Zealand.
No, Harpy Eagles are native to Central and South America.
White-Tailed Eagles are known for their adaptability and are found across Europe and Asia.
The Harpy and Philippine Eagles have smaller wingspans of 6.5 feet each.