GOLDEN EAGLE
Aquila chrysaetos
DESCRIPTION
The Golden Eagle is a large bird of prey known for its impressive wingspan and powerful hunting abilities. It is characterized by its dark brown plumage and distinctive golden feathers on the back of its head and neck.
FUN FACTS
- Golden Eagles can reach speeds of over 150 mph during a dive | They have excellent eyesight, allowing them to spot prey from great distances | Golden Eagles can live for over 30 years in captivity
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-30 years in the wild
Average Weight3-6.5 kg
Average Length66-102 cm
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuresolitary or pair, typically seen alone or with a mate during breeding
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- Golden Eagles inhabit a variety of environments, including mountainous regions, open grasslands, and forests. They prefer areas with cliffs or tall trees for nesting and hunting.
- Biomes
- Temperate Forest, Grassland, Mountain
- Native Range
- They are found across North America, Europe, and Asia, typically in open and mountainous regions.
- Continent
- North America, Europe, Asia
- Countries
- United States, Canada, Russia, Mongolia, Spain
- Diet
- Golden Eagles primarily hunt small to medium-sized mammals and birds. They are skilled hunters, often using high vantage points to spot prey.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- rabbits, hares, and birds
- Social Structure
- solitary or pair, typically seen alone or with a mate during breeding
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
3-6.5 kg
Weight
66-102 cm
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown with a golden nape and white markings on the wings
- Sexual Dimorphism
- females are generally larger than males
- Lifespan
- 20-30 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-3
- Sexual Maturity
- 4-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable in many areas, but some local populations may be declining due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 100,000+
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, poisoning, and collisions with wind turbines. These factors can impact their nesting success and overall population.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Golden Eagles use their size and strength to defend their nests and territory, often engaging in aerial displays to deter intruders.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon