The golden eagle is the largest bird of prey in North America.
The golden eagle is a large bird of prey that can be found in North America, Europe, Asia and North Africa. They have long lifespans, surviving for around 30 years. Although they have no natural predators, golden eagle populations have been affected by hunting and poisoning and they have been protected in the United States since 1963.
Identification
The golden eagle is a large bird, with a wingspan between 1.8 and 2.3 meters. They can be identified in flight by the distinctive 'V' shape formed by their wings. According to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, the golden eagle is larger than the buzzard and has a distinctively long tail. Its feathers are brown apart from the tail, which is white with a black band.
Geography
Golden eagles are the second most widely distributed birds of prey in the world, trailing only peregrine falcons. Although some eagles will migrate during the winter to find more food, most stay in their nesting area all year round. They prefer rocky, mountainous habitats for nesting and open stretches of land where they can hunt.
Diet
Smaller birds and mammals including rabbits, pheasants, foxes, snakes and squirrels are top targets for a golden eagle. They identify their prey by soaring over the area, then make a fast, sudden dive to ground level and snatch up the food. According to National Geographic, they can reach speeds of 150 mph and have reportedly attacked animals as large as deer.
Breeding
Golden eagles are monogamous birds and will remain with a partner for several years or even life. They prefer nesting in high areas, especially mountains, trees and tall man-made structures. They might use the same nest for several years running and will lay between one and four eggs every year. Both parents will incubate the eggs for 40 to 45 days. Only one of two the birds that hatch will survive. There is a high infant mortality rate among hatchlings as the first chick to hatch will usually kill the later arrivals.
Conservation
Golden eagles have been protected by law since 1963 in North America and 1981 in the UK. Hunting and poisoning has reduced the Golden Eagle population in the UK to 442 breeding pairs as of 2010. According to National Geographic, farmers killed a lot of eagles when they thought they were a threat to their livestock. As of 1972, Americans face imprisonment or a fine of up to $10,000 for the possession of a feather or another Golden eagle body part without a permit.
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