Golden Eagle
Least ConcernAquila chrysaetos
Visual Identification
Golden Eagle
Appearance
The Golden Eagle is a majestic raptor with dark brown plumage and golden-brown feathers on the head and neck. Adults have a wingspan of up to 2.3 meters, with females typically larger than males. Key features include a powerful hooked beak and yellow feet with sharp talons.
Juveniles are distinguished by white patches on their wings and tail base. As they mature, their plumage darkens, and they develop the characteristic golden nape. Adults maintain consistent plumage year-round.
Size
Length
66cm to 102cm
Wingspan
180cm to 230cm
Weight
3kg to 6.7kg
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Brown Black
Beak Colour
Grey
Leg Colour
Yellow
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Golden Eagles inhabit open and semi-open areas, including mountains, hills, grasslands, and tundra. They are found across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. In North America, they are most common in western states and Alaska.
Some populations move to lower elevations or more southerly regions during winter. However, they are year-round residents in parts of their range with suitable habitat and prey availability.
Golden Eagles have an extensive range in North America, from Alaska in the north to Mexico in the south. In the UK, Golden Eagles are confined mainly to the hillsides and glens of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.
Elevation Range
Sea level to 4,000 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Subarctic, Alpine
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
Golden Eagles are opportunistic predators. They primarily hunt mammals like rabbits, hares, and marmots. They also take birds, reptiles, and occasionally fish.
These powerful raptors can capture prey as large as foxes and young deer, using their strong talons to subdue and carry their quarry. They readily feed on animal carcasses, including those killed by other carnivores.
Behaviour
Golden Eagles are solitary birds, often seen soaring on thermal currents with their wings held in a slight V-shape. They are skilled hunters, capable of taking prey much larger than themselves.
During courtship, pairs perform spectacular aerial displays, including cartwheels and synchronized diving.
Vocalisation
Golden Eagles are generally quiet birds, but they do vocalize occasionally. Their call is a series of high-pitched, yelping notes, often described as 'kya-kya-kya' or 'kee-kee-kee'. During courtship or when defending territory, they may produce a softer, mewing sound.
Nesting & Breeding
Golden Eagles form long-term monogamous pairs, often mating for life. Breeding season typically begins in late winter or early spring, varying by location. Courtship involves aerial displays and nest building or refurbishing.
Nests are massive structures of sticks, often located on cliff ledges or large trees. Females usually lay 1-3 eggs, which are white with brown markings. Both parents contribute to nest construction and maintenance.
Incubation lasts about 45 days, primarily by the female. Chicks fledge at 65-75 days but may depend on parents for several months. Young eagles reach sexual maturity at 4-5 years old.
Lifespan
years
The Golden Eagle typically lives for 20 to 30 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
While listed as Least Concern globally, Golden Eagles face threats from habitat loss, collisions with wind turbines, and illegal shooting.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting nesting sites, mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, and reducing lead poisoning from ingested ammunition in carrion.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Golden Eagles soaring over open landscapes, especially in mountainous regions.
- Observe their distinctive flight pattern with wings held slightly upward in a shallow V.
- In North America, watch for them in western states and Alaska.
- Be patient and use high-powered binoculars or a spotting scope for best viewing.
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Royal Eagle, Mountain Eagle
Family:
AccipitridaePredators
Adult Golden Eagles have few natural predators. However, eggs and nestlings may be vulnerable to other large birds of prey, ravens, and some mammals.
Did You Know?
- Golden Eagles can dive at speeds of up to 240 km/h (150 mph) when hunting.
- They have been used in falconry for centuries, particularly in Kazakhstan.
- Some pairs use the same nest for multiple years, adding to it until it becomes enormous. Britain's largest known golden eagle nest was 4.6 metres deep and had been used for 45 years.
- It is estimated that the Golden Eagle’s eyesight is 4-8 times better than that of humans. This means that they can spot prey on the ground at a distance of up to 2 miles away.
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References
- 1 2
website: BirdLife International. 2021. Aquila chrysaetos. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2021: e.T22696060A202078899.
View source - 3
report, 2020: Partners in Flight