Yes, Golden Eagles can be found in Iowa, although they are not as common as Bald Eagles. Iowa’s diverse landscapes, including the towering bluffs along the Mississippi River and the tranquil waters of its lakes and rivers, provide an ideal habitat for these birds of prey.
The Presence of Golden Eagles in Iowa
Golden Eagles have a large home range, inhabiting four continents in the northern hemisphere, including North America. In North America, they are primarily found in the western mountains and deserts southwest, but recent observations have shown that migratory populations spend the winter months in portions of the eastern United States, including Iowa.
The Golden Eagle Project conducts an annual Golden Eagle Survey every January, involving citizen scientists to count Golden Eagles and other raptors in southeastern Minnesota, southwestern Wisconsin, northeastern Iowa, and northwestern Illinois. The survey helps track the winter populations in the region and develop a better understanding of these migratory eagles.
Habitat Preferences of Golden Eagles in Iowa
Golden Eagles prefer to hunt game on “goat prairies” or “upland prairies”, the sparsely forested, southern-facing sides of the bluffs in the Driftless Area during the winter. This region, which covers parts of Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois, is characterized by its unique geological features, including steep, rugged terrain and deep river valleys.
The Driftless Area’s diverse habitats, including grasslands, forests, and rocky outcroppings, provide an ideal environment for Golden Eagles to thrive. These birds of prey are known for their impressive hunting skills, using their keen eyesight and powerful talons to capture small to medium-sized mammals, such as rabbits, hares, and ground squirrels.
Comparison with Bald Eagles in Iowa
In contrast, Bald Eagles are more common in Iowa and can be observed year-round, particularly in the winter months from November to March. During Iowa winters, bald eagle sightings are common, with more than 100 volunteers and Iowa Department of Natural Resource staff members checking up on Iowa’s bald eagles every year.
In 2023, volunteers counted more than 2,900 eagles along more than 1,600 miles of waterway in January. The DNR’s nesting survey also showed an improvement over 2022’s record poor numbers, with 66% of the active nests surveyed being successful and an average of 1.77 young being fledged per nest.
Best Spots for Eagle Watching in the Des Moines Metro
For eagle watching in the Des Moines metro, the best spots are anywhere along the river where there’s open water, such as the Sycamore Access boat ramp, Saylorville Lake, and Center Street Dam. These areas provide excellent opportunities to observe both Bald and Golden Eagles in their natural habitats.
Conclusion
While Golden Eagles are not as abundant as Bald Eagles in Iowa, their presence in the state’s diverse landscapes, particularly in the Driftless Area, is a testament to the state’s rich biodiversity and the importance of preserving these natural habitats. By participating in citizen science projects like the Golden Eagle Survey, Iowans can contribute to the ongoing research and conservation efforts for these majestic birds of prey.
References:
– Golden Eagles in Iowa
– The National Eagle Center – Golden Eagles
– Iowa DNR – Golden in Search of Wings: Iowa’s Golden Eagles
– Bald Eagles in Iowa
– Bald Eagle Watching in Des Moines
