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Hunched and lurking in the sagging branches of old growth trees, the bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus ) likes to maintain a prime view of its surroundings. The weight of an eagle's nest requires a strong tree to act as its spire.

The forests of British Columbia (map), full of mature trees such as the Sitka Spruce, Douglas-fir, the western red-cedar and the black cottonwood, are ideal for leucocephalus , which have the largest nests of any bird in North America. Their nests can be anywhere from two to three metres in diameter and can weigh up to one tonne.

As eagles return to the same nest each year after wintering down south, long-established nests become massive homes as they add new materials each year. The nest is lined with soft vegetation and feathers for the comfort of the adult female, watching over the nest most to protect her eggs.

Learn more about bald eagles and their habitat