Golden Eagle

The golden eagle is a large bird of prey found in much of the northern hemisphere.BBC: The Golden Eagle

Still found in Europe, Asia, North America and parts of Africa, the golden eagle come from the Accipitridae animal family. The physical characteristics are dark brown feathered body with a lighter golden-brown on head and neck. A wingspan over 7 feet and length of 3 feet. They have sharp talons.

Their diet contains rabbits, marmots, ground squirrels, carrion, reptiles, birds, fish and insects.

Golden eagles are monogamous and will remain with a mate for many years and even for life.

Golden eagles mate for life and will defend their large territory against other eagles to protect their eggs and young. The male and female build the nest together, usually on a cliff ledge with a protective overhang, but sometimes in a tree. The nest is built from large branches and sticks and is often lined with pungent leaves to deter insects and other small pests. The nest can sometimes become very large as the pair will often return to their regular haunt year after year, adding to it each time.

Nesting habits are to build huge nests which they return to for many years. Nests are often placed in high places such as cliffs, tree and telephone poles. Golden eagles lay 1 or 2 eggs per clutch, which will hatch after a 34-45 day incubation period.BBC: The Golden Eagle Usually only one or two of the young survive. The eaglets fledge within 75 days.Notice Nature: Golden Eagle Fledglings The male and female share the incubation. The male is the major food provider during incubation and rearing. Young eagles reach maturity around five years of age.