Schoen: Territorial Behavior

 Bald Eagle

Haliaeetus leucocephalus

Location: 42^o15’50.96”N, 71^o45’57.83”W

Bald Eagles are especially territorial during nesting season. They will adamantly keep other eagles out of their own nesting area by violently attacking eagles and other predators intruding in their territory. Their nesting territory is usually around one to two square miles large.

American Alligator

Alligator mississippiensis

Location: 42^o03’54.51”N, 71^o35’04.25”W

Large American Alligators are very territorial towards members of their own species, with males being more so than females. Males are known to be, at times, quite solitary, but they will fiercly and violently defend their own prime hunting territory. Female alligators will guard their eggs and protect their young for up to one year if they stay within their territory. On the other hand, smaller alligators are more tolerant towards each other and large quantities can often be seen in close proximity.