Golden Eagle

Overview

The golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is a bird of prey that is the most widely distributed species of eagle in the Northern Hemisphere. It is one of the best-known raptors in its range and is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Plumage: Adults are dark brown with lighter golden-brown or rusty plumage on the napes, which is a defining characteristic of the species.
• Markings: Immature eagles typically have white on the tail and often have white markings on the wings.
• Size: A very large raptor measuring 66 to 102 centimetres (26 to 40 in) in length, with a broad wingspan ranging from 1.8 to 2.34 metres (5 ft 11 in to 7 ft 8 in).

Habitat

Once widespread across the Holarctic, the species has disappeared from many heavily populated areas but remains present in sizeable stretches of Eurasia, North America, and parts of North Africa. They maintain home ranges or territories that can be as large as 200 km2 (77 sq mi), often building large nests in cliffs and other high places.

Diet

Golden eagles use their agility, speed, powerful feet, and large, sharp talons to hunt a variety of prey, primarily consisting of hares, rabbits, marmots, and other ground squirrels.

Did you know?

For centuries, the golden eagle has been one of the most highly regarded birds used in falconry and is regarded with great mystic reverence in some ancient, tribal cultures due to its hunting prowess.