Golden Eagle
NameGolden Eagle
Common NameGolden Eagle
Scientific NameAquila chrysaetos
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)200
Length (cm)77
Weight (g)4500
Plumage DetailsAdult Golden Eagles are uniformly dark brown with a distinctive golden-brown wash on the nape and hindneck. Juveniles have prominent white patches at the base of the primary flight feathers and a white tail with a broad dark terminal band, which gradually fades with age.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, yelping calls, often described as 'kyah-kyah-kyah' or 'kleek-kleek-kleek', typically used during territorial displays or when disturbed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountains, grassland, tundra, desert, coniferous forest, cliffs
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeGolden Eagles have a Holarctic distribution, found across much of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Eurasia, and parts of North Africa.
Identifying Featureslarge size, dark brown plumage, golden nape, powerful build, soaring flight, white patches on underwing (juveniles)
Description
The Golden Eagle is a large, powerful raptor known for its impressive hunting prowess and majestic soaring flight. It is one of the best-known birds of prey in the Northern Hemisphere, inhabiting open country, mountains, and grasslands.
