Jo,

If memory serves me well (I read a bunch of articles a number of years ago), there were two studies done in which young eagles, banded in the nest, were observed from year to year.
In one study the majority reached adult plumage in 3-4 years, in the other in 4-5 years.

Conclusion: It's variable, but will take at least 3 years.

Martin Muller, Seattle.


----- Original Message -----
From: Joaw9 at aol.com
To: dcv at drizzle.com ; tweeters at u.washington.edu
Sent: Tuesday, January 28, 2003 9:08 PM
Subject: Re: "A great year to keep your eye on the eagle"


Good article. Thanks, Dan.
Question to the group: Does anyone agree on how long it takes a Bald Eagle to get the white plumage? I have read 2 years, 4 years, and the article said 5 years. It would be nice to know how long it really is.

Jo Waldron
Everett, WA
joaw9 at aol.com