Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

Genus · True Eagles Family · Hawks, Eagles, and Kites
Observation tips Difficulty: HARD
Best time
🕒 Any
Activity
☀️ Diurnal
Best months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Observation habitat
GrasslandMountains

Look for them in high mountains like the Alps or Scottish Highlands. They are identified by their massive size and 'fingered' wingtips curled upwards.

Golden Eagle

♂ Male · ♀ Female

Stats
Wingspan180–230 cm
Weight2800–6700 g
Length66–100 cm
Lifespan wild15–32 yrs
Size
XS
S
M
L
XL
Nesting
Nest typePlatform
Clutch size1–2 eggs
Incubation41–45 days
Breeding months
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Regional Status (Europe)
LC
Least Concern (Europe)
IUCN Red List
MigrationResident
Social BehaviourMonogamous pairs

Diet: Carnivore

🐭Mammals
🦅Birds
🦎Reptiles
🦴Carrion

Habitat

🌳 Forest deciduous🌿 Grassland⛰️ Mountains❄️ Tundra
✦ Fun Fact

Golden Eagles can dive at speeds of over 240 km/h (150 mph) when attacking prey.

About

One of the most powerful birds of prey in the Northern Hemisphere. It is a large, dark brown raptor with broad wings. It has a golden-buff wash on the nape and crown. In Europe, it lives in wild mountains and remote moorlands. It is a long-lived species with exceptional eyesight. It can spot movement from several kilometres away.

Behaviour

Golden Eagles are apex predators. They hunt hares, grouse, and even young deer. They often soar at great heights or fly low over hillsides to surprise prey. Pairs are usually monogamous and stay together for many years. They maintain several alternative nests within their territory. Their flight is powerful, with wings held in a slight 'V' shape.
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