The golden eagle is one of the largest and most impressive of British birds, especially when seen soaring over a Highland glen or searching for prey over a hillside, with deep leisurely wingbeats.

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Overview

A Golden Eagle at San Francisco Zoo by ManYee DeSandies at pics4learning.com)Order: Accipitriformes

Family: Accipitridae

Species: Aquila chrysaetos

Distribution: Mountainous areas of Europe; in Britain occurs mainly in remote areas of Scotland.

Description: Dark brown on back & wings; head has a golden tinge. Hooked bill.

Length: 79 - 89cm. Weight: 3 - 6kg.

Wingspan: 200 - 220cm.

Lifespan: About 15 years.

Diet: Birds & mammals e.g. mountain hare, grouse, ptarmigan and carrion.

The golden eagle is one of the largest and most impressive of British birds, especially when seen soaring over a Highland glen or searching for prey over a hillside, with deep leisurely wingbeats. Often it can be seen from up to a mile away, and the impression always is of sheer size, power and majesty. The inexperienced may often confuse it in flight with a buzzard, but its long wings, relatively long tail and obvious head is enough to show it is an eagle. Once an eagle has been seen, there is never any doubt again.

 

 

Read More: Breeding

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