Golden Eagle
Aquila chrysaetos
The Golden Eagle is a rare but iconic bird of prey in Britain, typically seen in the Scottish Highlands and remote, mountainous areas, particularly during the breeding season. It is a notable species due to its impressive wingspan and powerful build, making it a sought-after sighting for British birdwatchers.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Golden Eagle in the field.
The Golden Eagle can be identified by its dark brown plumage, lighter golden-brown nape, and white markings on the tail and wings, particularly in immature birds. Its broad wings and long, rounded tail are also distinctive features.
The Golden Eagle is larger than a Buzzard, with a more imposing build and broader wingspan.
The male Golden Eagle has a dark brown plumage with a distinctive lighter golden-brown colour on the nape, with minimal seasonal variation in its appearance.
The female Golden Eagle is similar to the male in terms of plumage, with the same dark brown and golden-brown colouration, although she may be slightly larger.
The Golden Eagle has a loud, piercing call that sounds like a sharp "kek-kek-kek" or a high-pitched scream, often heard during territorial displays or when in flight.
Golden Eagles are skilled hunters, using their agility and speed to catch a variety of prey, including hares, rabbits, and ground squirrels, which they spot from a distance before swooping down to grab with their powerful talons.
The Golden Eagle can be confused with other large birds of prey, such as the White-tailed Eagle or the Marsh Harrier, but can be distinguished by its darker plumage, broader wings, and distinctive nape colouration.
Quick Facts
Who's spotted this?
Loading...
Recent community sightings
Loading recent sightings...
