Golden eagles are not native to Hawaii, and there are no established populations of the species on the islands. However, there have been several reported sightings of golden eagles in Hawaii, including a sighting in Waimea Canyon on Kauai in 1967. These sightings are likely to be accidental visitors, as the species is not adapted to the island’s environment and is not known to migrate to Hawaii.
The Absence of Golden Eagles in Hawaii
The Bishop Museum’s list of birds of Hawaii includes the golden eagle as a vagrant species, meaning it is a visitor that does not occur regularly in the state. The list contains 337 species, of which 64 are endemic to the islands, 130 are vagrants, and 52 were introduced by humans. The list does not include introduced species that have not become established.
Characteristics of the Golden Eagle
The golden eagle is a bird of prey that is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It is one of the largest eagles in the world, with a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet and a weight of up to 15 pounds. The species is known for its powerful flight and ability to soar at high altitudes.
Despite its impressive size and strength, the golden eagle is not a significant threat to humans or domestic animals. The species primarily preys on small mammals, such as rabbits, hares, and rodents. In some areas, golden eagles have been known to prey on larger animals, such as deer and pronghorn antelope.
Conservation Efforts for Golden Eagles
Golden eagles are not considered to be a threatened species, but they do face several threats, including habitat loss, collisions with wind turbines, and lead poisoning from ingesting spent lead ammunition. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the species and its habitat, including the establishment of protected areas and the use of non-lead ammunition.
Reported Sightings of Golden Eagles in Hawaii
Despite the absence of established populations, there have been several reported sightings of golden eagles in Hawaii. In 1967, a golden eagle was spotted in Waimea Canyon on the island of Kauai. This sighting was likely an accidental visitor, as the species is not known to migrate to Hawaii.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there have been reported sightings of golden eagles in Hawaii, there are no established populations of the species on the islands. The golden eagle is a bird of prey that is native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and is known for its powerful flight and ability to soar at high altitudes. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the species and its habitat.
References:
– List of Hawks, Eagles, & Falcons in Hawaii with Pictures – Animal Spot. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.animalspot.net/hawks-eagles-falcons-in-us/hawks-eagles-falcons-in-hawaii
– GOLDEN EAGLE. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://hbs.bishopmuseum.org/birds/rlp-monograph/pdfs/03-PHAE-GRUI/GOEA.pdf
– List of birds of Hawaii – Wikipedia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_birds_of_Hawaii
– Wildlife Program | Native Birds of Hawaiʻi. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/wildlife/birds/
– Kauai’s golden eagle – The Garden Island. (2017, September 3). Retrieved from https://www.thegardenisland.com/2017/09/03/lifestyles/kauais-golden-eagle/
– Golden Eagle. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Golden_Eagle/id
