Yes, golden eagles are indeed present in Calgary and the surrounding areas, particularly in the Rocky Mountains and foothills. These majestic birds of prey are known for their impressive size, with a wingspan ranging from 185 to 220 cm, and their distinctive dark brown coloration, which is accented by golden-brown feathers on the back of their head and neck.
The Habitat of Golden Eagles in Calgary
Golden eagles are found throughout much of the northern hemisphere, including North America, Asia, northern Africa, and Europe. They prefer open country near mountains, hills, and riverside cliffs, but can also be spotted in a variety of other habitats. In Alberta, golden eagles can be found on many Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) properties, such as Sandstone Ranch in the Milk River Ridge Natural Area, the Frayn property in Crowsnest Pass Natural Area, and the Waldron Conservation Project in the Southern Foothills Natural Area.
The Diet of Golden Eagles in Calgary
Image source: Golden Eagle by Atillak
The golden eagle’s diet is extremely varied, with these birds typically hunting small mammals such as rabbits, hares, ground squirrels, prairie dogs, and marmots. However, they are also capable of killing larger prey, including cranes, swans, deer, seals, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, coyotes, badgers, and bobcats. Golden eagles search for prey while soaring high in the sky, flying close to the ground, or from a perch. Once they’ve spotted potential prey, they use their powerful talons to capture it.
Threats to Golden Eagles in Calgary
Golden eagle populations are not currently listed as a species at risk in Canada, but they face several threats, including:
- Poisoning of prey through toxic chemicals or lead as a by-product from hunting
- Collisions with vehicles, wind turbines, and other structures
- Electrocution from power poles
Conservation Efforts for Golden Eagles in Calgary
The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is actively working to conserve the golden eagle’s habitat by owning and managing properties across the country where golden eagles have been observed during the breeding season and migration. In Alberta, NCC properties such as Sandstone Ranch and the Frayn property in Crowsnest Pass Natural Area provide large, connected tracts of natural habitat that are essential for these large predators.
Sightings of Golden Eagles in Calgary
Golden eagles have been spotted by hikers and outdoor enthusiasts in the Calgary area, particularly in the Rocky Mountains and foothills. Reddit users have shared their experiences of encountering these majestic birds while hiking, and the Calgary Herald has reported on the mystery and history of these fascinating birds in Alberta.
Conclusion
In conclusion, golden eagles are indeed present in Calgary and the surrounding areas, particularly in the Rocky Mountains and foothills. These birds of prey are known for their impressive size, varied diet, and preference for open country near mountains and rivers. The Nature Conservancy of Canada is actively working to conserve the golden eagle’s habitat by owning and managing properties across the country where these birds have been observed during the breeding season and migration.
References:
– Nature Conservancy of Canada. Golden eagle. Retrieved from https://www.natureconservancy.ca/en/what-we-do/resource-centre/featured-species/birds/golden-eagle.html
– Alberta Outdoorsmen Forum. Golden Eagles. Retrieved from http://www.outdoorsmenforum.ca/showthread.php?t=36434
– Rocky Mountain Eagle Research Foundation. The Eagle Migration. Retrieved from https://eaglewatch.ca/the-eagles-journey/the-eagle-migration/
– Reddit. Found a golden eagle while hiking! Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/Calgary/comments/12yxzsi/found_a_golden_eagle_while_hiking/
– Calgary Herald. Golden eagles: The mystery and history of one of Alberta’s most fascinating birds. Retrieved from https://calgaryherald.com/news/local-news/golden-eagles-the-mystery-and-history-of-one-of-albertas-most-fascinating-birds
