Features: The Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is a very large, dark brown bird of prey. Adults are distinguished by golden-brown feathers on the back of the head, neck and upper wings. From a distance, Golden Eagles may be confused with dark-headed, immature Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) which have not yet attained the characteristic white-headed plumage of adulthood. The Golden Eagle typically inhabits mountain regions and dry, rugged open country and grasslands, over which it soars in search of small mammals and other prey. This eagle usually constructs a large stick nest on a cliff ledge. However, it occasionally nests in trees, and, in the far north, will nest directly on the tundra.

Status: Endangered Provincially, Not at Risk Nationally

Range: The Golden Eagle has a widespread distribution in parts of North America, and from Asia and Europe to North Africa. In North America it is found mostly in the west, from northern Canada and Alaska south to Mexico. To the east, it occurs across northern Canada, and in forested mountain regions of the eastern United States, where it is extremely rare. Recent reports from Ontario indicate that only about six pairs nest in the far northern part of the province, not necessarily all in any given year. Monitoring of this small population poses difficulties because of the remoteness of the nest sites. Migration counts suggest that populations may be increasing in northeastern Canada. For example, over 200 Golden Eagles have been observed at major "hawk watch" points in southern Ontario. The precise origins of these birds are unknown. Range Maps

Threats: Human persecution resulted in declines in many parts of the species' North American range.

Protection: The Golden Eagle is listed under Ontario's Endangered Species Act, 2007, which protects the species from being killed, harmed, possessed, collected or sold, and protects the habitat from damage or destruction. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act also affords protection to this species.

Text Sources: Austen et al. 1994; Bull and Farrand 1977; De Smet 1987; Godfrey 1986

Last Modified Date: October 2008