Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)

Golden eagles are residents of prairies, mountains, and tundra, frequenting arid, open country with buttes and canyons. Once common in North America and northern areas of Eurasia, they are now found mostly in inaccessible regions of the western United States, Canada and Mexico. The northernmost populations will occasionally migrate south when food becomes scarce in winter. Golden eagles are carnivores, feeding primarily on rodents and other small mammals. Adults are dark brown with golden napes visible only at close range, with an impressive wingspan of over 7 feet. Their legs are fully feathered to their talons. Though typically not vocal, they sometimes emit a high squeal. The golden eagle was the symbol of ancient Rome, just as the bald eagle is the symbol of the United States.

Golden eagles are monogamous and often form permanent pair bonds. Each pair occupies and defends a large hunting territory. Both sexes build the nest, returning to the same site and adding to the nest year after year. The preferred nesting site, or aerie, is typically an inaccessible cliff ledge or large tree. Generally, 2 eggs are laid, with a 6 week incubation period that is shared by both male and female. Both parents feed the young, although the male is the main hunter. Fledging occurs at about 11 weeks, but the young are at least partly dependent on the parents for up to 3 months after that. Juveniles may then travel long distances in search of their own territories. Sexual maturity is reached in 6-7 years. Golden eagles are currently listed under CITES II, meaning they are not currently endangered, but need strict regulation. Their numbers have diminished over the years due to illegal shooting, habitat loss and prey reduction. Many die as a result of collisions with power lines.