How hard can an eagle bite?

Answered by Tom Adger

Harpy Eagles, known for their powerful grip and strong beaks, have been recorded to exert a bite force of 503-598 pounds per square inch (psi). This means that when a Harpy Eagle clamps down on its prey or a branch, it can exert a tremendous amount of pressure.

Gold Eagles, another impressive bird of prey, have a bite force range of 400-791 psi. This variation in bite force can be attributed to factors such as the individual bird’s size, age, and overall health. Nevertheless, Gold Eagles possess a formidable bite that enables them to capture and subdue their prey effectively.

Bald Eagles, often considered the symbol of the United States, are renowned for their impressive hunting skills and powerful beaks. While some sources suggest that a Bald Eagle’s grip pressure can reach up to a staggering 823 psi, it is more commonly estimated to be between 300 to 400 psi by organizations like HawkQuest. These birds are known to have a strong grip, which allows them to catch and carry prey that may weigh several pounds.

It is important to note that while these figures provide a general idea of the bite force exerted by these eagles, the actual pressure can vary depending on various factors such as the individual bird’s size, age, health, and the specific circumstances in which the bite occurs.

To put these numbers into perspective, it is worth comparing them to human bite forces. The average human bite force ranges from about 120 to 200 psi, which is significantly lower than that of eagles. So, it is safe to say that an eagle’s bite is considerably stronger than what a human can produce.

Attempting to arm wrestle or engage in any kind of physical contest with a Bald Eagle, given its reported bite force of up to 823 psi, would be highly ill-advised. These birds are powerful predators and should be respected from a safe distance.

Eagles, including Harpy Eagles, Gold Eagles, and Bald Eagles, possess impressive bite forces that allow them to capture and handle their prey effectively. While the exact bite force can vary depending on various factors, it is clear that eagles have a significantly stronger bite than humans. So, it’s best to leave the arm wrestling to other humans and appreciate the remarkable strength and hunting abilities of these magnificent birds from a safe distance.