Golden Eagles can be found in Illinois, but they are rare and primarily seen during the winter months along the Mississippi River and the Chicago Lakefront. Illinois is home to two eagle species, the Bald Eagle and the Golden Eagle.
The Presence of Golden Eagles in Illinois
- Golden Eagles are large raptors with a brown body and slightly lighter feathers mixed in, a white band on the tail, and golden-colored feathers on the nape of their neck.
- They primarily live year-round in the western half of the United States and Northern Mexico, with some members migrating north to Alaska and Canada during the breeding season.
- During the winter months, some Golden Eagles move east and can be found in Illinois along the Mississippi River and the Chicago Lakefront.
- The Golden Eagle is a relatively rare bird in Illinois and is primarily seen during the winter months.
Bald Eagles in Illinois
- The Bald Eagle is more common in Illinois and can be found in most parts of the state.
- Illinois has a growing Bald Eagle population, with at least 3,100 Bald Eagles who winter in the state each year in at least 27 Illinois counties.
- The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service considers the American Bald Eagle as protected, and towns and parks across much of the state host specially planned eagle observation programs and exhibits throughout the winter months.
Identifying Golden Eagles in Illinois
- Golden Eagles are larger than Bald Eagles, with a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet and a body length of up to 3 feet.
- They have a brown body with slightly lighter feathers mixed in, a white band on the tail, and golden-colored feathers on the nape of their neck.
- Golden Eagles primarily eat mammals such as squirrels and rabbits, but they will also eat birds and have been known to take on much larger prey such as deer or even other larger predators such as coyotes.
- The best way to find Golden Eagles in Illinois is to look for them soaring over open areas or mountainous areas, particularly along the Mississippi River and the Chicago Lakefront during the winter months.
Birdwatching Opportunities in Illinois
- Illinois has a growing eagle population, with both Bald Eagles and Golden Eagles present in the state.
- The state hosts a variety of eagle observation programs and exhibits throughout the winter months to accommodate visitors who want to experience the majesty and glory of these magnificent birds.
- Some of the best places to see eagles in Illinois include the Mississippi River, the Chicago Lakefront, and various state parks and wildlife refuges.
In conclusion, while Illinois is not known for its eagle watching, it is home to two eagle species, the Bald Eagle and the Golden Eagle. The Bald Eagle is more common and can be found in most parts of the state, while the Golden Eagle is rarer and primarily seen during the winter months along the Mississippi River and the Chicago Lakefront. Illinois has a growing eagle population, and the state offers a variety of opportunities for birdwatchers to observe these magnificent birds.
References:
– National Eagle Center – Golden Eagles
– Reddit – Bald Eagles in Chicago
– Eagles of Illinois
– Badgerland Birding – Eagles of Illinois
– Avi Birds – Eagles in Illinois
