Golden eagle
The golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is one of the best-known birds of prey in the northern hemisphere. It is the most widely distributed species of eagle. Golden eagles use their agility and speed combined with powerful feet and massive, sharp talons to snatch up prey. They eat hares, rabbits, marmots and other ground squirrels.
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| Aquila chrysaetos Linnaeus, 1758
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| Light green = Breeding only Blue = Wintering only Dark green = All-year | |
Once common across the Holarctic, it has gone from many areas heavily populated by humans. The species is still widespread. It lives in Eurasia, North America, and parts of North Africa.
Like all eagles, it belongs to the family Accipitridae. It is one of the largest birds of prey in North America; only the California condor gets larger. Golden eagles also live in the Scottish Highlands.
Golden Eagle Media
Wintering eagle of the nominate subspecies in Finland
A captive Aquila chrysaetos canadensis shows the typical rusty coloration of the subspecies.
Aquila chrysaetos homeyeri – MHNT
Subadult, showing white in tail and dark neck
Captive adult of the North American subspecies Aquila chrysaetos canadensis
Golden eagles are often silent.
Captive Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) in flight in the United Kingdom
Golden eagle flying in dihedral with food
Golden eagles are readily distinguished by their brown plumage, paler than most other Aquila, and pale nape patch.
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