Description

The golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is a large bird of prey found across the Northern Hemisphere, making it the most widespread eagle species. Known for its dark brown plumage and distinctive golden feathers on its nape, the golden eagle is a powerful hunter, using its agility, speed, and sharp talons to catch prey such as hares and ground squirrels. They establish large territories, up to 200 km², and build nests on cliffs, often returning to the same site for years. Monogamous pairs typically breed in the spring, and females lay up to four eggs, with one or two young surviving to fledge. Though once common throughout the Holarctic, the golden eagle has seen its range shrink due to human activity but remains present in large areas of Eurasia, North America, and parts of North Africa. Revered in some ancient cultures for its hunting prowess, it is also a favored bird in falconry and one of the most studied raptors in the world.