Golden eagle 3
by Flees Photos
Title
Golden eagle 3
Artist
Flees Photos
Medium
Photograph - Home Decor And Giclee Wall Art By Chris Flees
Description
This is a portrait of a golden eagle. The golden eagle is a raptor bird and is related to the bald eagle. At first look this raptor could be mistaken for a large hawk due to its color. Golden eagles are significantly larger than most hawks. As far as birds go they are not the largest bird but in the overall scheme of things are very large.
facts about Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos):
Appearance: Golden Eagles are large birds of prey with a wingspan ranging from about 6 to 7.5 feet (1.8 to 2.3 meters) and a length of around 2.3 to 3.3 feet (0.7 to 1 meter). They have dark brown feathers, a golden-brown nape that gives them their name, and a light-colored patch at the base of their tail. Adults have a distinctive golden-colored crown on their head.
Distribution: Golden Eagles have a wide distribution and can be found in various parts of the Northern Hemisphere. They occur across Eurasia, North America, and parts of northern Africa. They inhabit diverse habitats, including mountains, grasslands, forests, and tundra regions.
Habitat: Golden Eagles prefer open and expansive habitats, such as mountains and high plateaus, where they can utilize their exceptional hunting and soaring abilities. They require suitable nesting sites, roosting sites, and areas with an ample prey base.
Diet and Hunting: Golden Eagles are powerful hunters and primarily feed on small to medium-sized mammals, such as rabbits, hares, ground squirrels, and marmots. They also prey on birds, reptiles, and occasionally carrion. They hunt by soaring high in the sky, using their keen eyesight to spot prey from great distances. They then swoop down with tremendous speed and accuracy to catch their prey.
Adaptations: Golden Eagles have several adaptations that make them successful predators. They have excellent eyesight, which allows them to spot small prey from high altitudes. Their sharp, curved beak and strong talons enable them to seize and kill their prey efficiently. They also have powerful wings that enable them to soar and cover large distances during migration.
Breeding Behavior: Golden Eagles are monogamous and usually mate for life. They build large nests made of sticks and vegetation in cliffs or large trees. The female lays 1 to 3 eggs, and both parents participate in incubation and caring for the young eaglets. The chicks stay with their parents for several months before becoming independent.
Conservation Status: Golden Eagles are considered a species of least concern in terms of conservation status. However, local populations may face threats from habitat loss, disturbance, and human activities such as hunting, poisoning, and collision with power lines and wind turbines. Conservation efforts, including habitat protection and reducing human-induced threats, are crucial for their long-term survival.
Cultural Significance: Golden Eagles have been revered and symbolized in various cultures throughout history. They are considered sacred and have been depicted in artwork and folklore. In some cultures, they represent power, strength, and freedom.
Golden Eagles are magnificent birds of prey known for their impressive size and hunting abilities. Their presence in ecosystems helps regulate prey populations and maintain the balance of their habitats.
This image is © Chris Flees all rights reserved
Uploaded
July 14th, 2014
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