Species BirdsGolden Eagle

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

UncommonBird
Illustration of Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
Safety note: Nesting Golden Eagles are highly protective and may attack intruders.

The Golden Eagle is North America's largest and most powerful raptor, capable of killing prey as large as young deer and mountain goats using its massive, crushing talons. The golden-brown wash on the back of its head and neck gives the species its name. It is a symbol of power in many cultures and still used in falconry, particularly in Central Asia.

Habitat
Open mountains, cliffs, and arid hills in the West
Diet
Ground squirrels, rabbits, prairie dogs, and carrion
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Golden Eagle

The best time to see a Golden Eagle is October–March, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 10,990 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Not certain it is a Golden Eagle? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.

Often confused with

Bald Eagle - see how to tell them apart

Recent Golden Eagle sightings near you

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