Yes, golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) are found in the Mid-Atlantic region, primarily during the fall and winter months. They are a rare but regular fall migrant and winter resident in the area, often favoring open areas with large numbers of geese and other waterfowl.
Breeding Habitat and Migration Patterns
Golden eagles are known to occupy a variety of breeding habitat types in eastern Canada, primarily during the summer months. Breeding occurs on cliffs or hillsides, although in certain parts of the range, eagles also breed on trees. Non-territorial eagles travel over much larger areas and may follow prey. There is some evidence that non-breeders congregate southwest of Ungava Bay, where there may be exceptional food resources available.
In terms of migration patterns, golden eagles migrate later during fall and earlier during spring compared to most other raptor species. High counts can be had along western Maryland ridges during late fall migration, with favorite winter locations including Blackwater NWR and vicinity, Pickering Creek Audubon Center, and Chesapeake Farms.
Physical Characteristics
Golden eagles are large birds of prey, with a wingspan that can reach up to 7 feet. Male golden eagles have a wing length of 55 to 64.3 cm (21.7 to 25.3 in), while female wing length is from 60 to 70.5 cm (23.6 to 27.8 in). Weight ranges from 2.9 to 6 kg (6.4 to 13.2 lb) for both males and females, with no known reports of average masses. The nape patch is often gleaming golden in color, and the feathers here are exceptionally long.
Diet and Prey
Golden eagles are generalist carnivores, consuming a variety of prey. Their diet includes winter-kill deer and likely live prey, such as deer, turkey, squirrel, and other medium-sized birds and mammals. They are known to be efficient hunters, using their sharp talons and powerful beaks to capture and kill their prey.
Population Status
According to estimates, there are around 5000 ± 2000 golden eagles in eastern North America. The population is no longer increasing, but increased public and agency awareness has led to increased golden eagle sightings during winter in the eastern US.
Conclusion
In summary, golden eagles are a rare but regular sight in the Mid-Atlantic region, particularly during the fall and winter months. They can be found in various habitats, from open areas with waterfowl to forested ridges, and they play an important role in the local ecosystem as apex predators. While their population may not be growing, the increased awareness and sightings of these majestic birds are a positive sign for their conservation in the region.
References:
– What we know about Golden Eagles in eastern North America – NC Wildlife
– Golden eagle – Wikipedia
– Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) – Maryland Biodiversity Project
– Eastern Golden Eagles are the same subspecies as Golden Eagles in western North America – NC Wildlife
– Golden Eagles – Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy
