Bald eagle nests are among the largest of any North American bird and vary in size depending on the age and use of the nest. Typically, these nests are about 5 to 7 feet wide and 3 to 6 feet high. Some nests, especially those used and added to over many years, can grow much larger-exceeding 8 feet wide and 12 feet high, and weighing over two tons. The largest recorded nests have been up to 9.5 to 10 feet in diameter and as deep as 20 to 22 feet

. The nests are built high in large, sturdy trees, often near lakes, rivers, or large creeks, usually 40 to 100 feet above the ground. Eagles construct their nests by interweaving sticks and branches to create a bulky structure, lining the center with softer materials such as moss, grass, and feathers to form an egg cup or bowl

. In summary:

• Typical nest size: 5 to 7 feet wide, 3 to 6 feet high
• Largest nests: up to 10 feet wide, 20+ feet deep, weighing over 2 tons
• Nest location: high in large trees near water, 40-100 feet above ground
• Construction: sticks and branches with soft lining inside

These enormous nests can sometimes be so heavy that they cause the supporting tree to collapse, especially under the weight of snow or rain