Yes, there are Golden Eagles in Minnesota, primarily in the bluff lands of the Driftless Area during the winter months. These majestic birds are known to prefer hunting on “goat prairies” or “upland prairies”, the sparsely forested, southern-facing sides of the bluffs, where they hunt rabbits, squirrels, and larger game like Wild Turkey.
Migratory Patterns of Golden Eagles in Minnesota
The annual Golden Eagle Survey, conducted by the National Eagle Center, has observed migratory Golden Eagles coming to the region each winter from their nesting territory upwards of 2,000 miles away in northern Canada just below the Arctic Circle. These birds are known to be species of open areas and mountainous regions, and the easiest way to spot them in Minnesota is by watching for them soaring over the Mississippi River or other areas in the state on a more sporadic basis.
Identifying Golden Eagles in Minnesota
Image source: Golden Eagle by Atillak
Golden Eagles are very large raptors that are brown in color with slightly lighter feathers mixed in, and have a white band on the tail, and the nape of their neck has golden colored feathers. In contrast, the Bald Eagle, which is also found in Minnesota, is primarily a fish-eating bird that can often be seen around dams or other places where fish congregate. The adult Bald Eagle is an unmistakable raptor species with a brown body and a white head and tail.
The Golden Eagle Project in Minnesota
The Golden Eagle Project, a collaboration of Audubon Minnesota, the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Nongame Wildlife Program, has been instrumental in studying the movements and behaviors of Golden Eagles in Minnesota. The project uses radio telemetry, or high-tech mini-backpacks, to track the eagles’ movements and has succeeded in capturing and tagging several birds.
Differences Between Golden Eagles and Bald Eagles in Minnesota
While both the Golden Eagle and the Bald Eagle can be found in Minnesota, they have distinct differences in identification, range, diet, and foraging habits. The Golden Eagle is a species of open areas and mountainous areas that can be found in Minnesota during the winter months, primarily in the bluff lands of the Driftless Area. The Bald Eagle, on the other hand, is primarily a fish-eating bird that can often be seen around dams or other places where fish congregate.
Conclusion
In summary, the presence of Golden Eagles in Minnesota is a testament to the state’s diverse and thriving ecosystem. These majestic birds are a true wonder to behold, and the efforts of organizations like the National Eagle Center and the Golden Eagle Project have been instrumental in understanding their movements and behaviors in the region. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, the Golden Eagles of Minnesota are a sight to behold.
References:
– Are There Golden Eagles in Minnesota?
– Eagles of Minnesota: Two Species to Know
– Golden Eagles
