Yes, there are golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) in Ohio, although they are much rarer compared to bald eagles. The majority of golden eagle records in Ohio come from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, primarily from birds shot by farmers or caught in leg traps as trophies. In recent years, the number of golden eagles observed in Ohio and throughout eastern North America has been increasing, with an average of 5 to 15 or more annually reported by Ohio birders in the late 1990s.
Habitat Preferences of Golden Eagles in Ohio
Golden eagles are attracted to “semi-open moorland regions, especially areas with open ‘bald’ landscapes,” and to a lesser extent, “dry or wet semi-open lowland regions with meadow, rivers, lakes, and marshes”. In Ohio, the Wilds in Muskingum County, which sits atop reclaimed strip mines and has much of its property as open grassland, is a suitable habitat for these birds.
Best Time and Locations to Spot Golden Eagles in Ohio
Image source: Golden Eagle by Atillak
The best time to see golden eagles in Ohio is during migration and in the winter, particularly in areas with open landscapes and abundant prey. Some of the prime eagle-watching locations in Ohio include:
- Hocking Hills State Park
- Shawnee State Forest
- Mosquito Lake State Park
Comparison with Bald Eagles in Ohio
In contrast, bald eagles have made a remarkable comeback in Ohio, with 707 nests documented throughout the state in 2020, a 150% increase from the last nest census in 2012. Bald eagles are documented as nesting in all but three of Ohio’s counties, and productivity measures have been robust, with an average of 1.4 eaglets per nest from 2010-2019.
Historical Presence of Golden Eagles in Ohio
The majority of golden eagle records in Ohio come from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, primarily from birds shot by farmers or caught in leg traps as trophies. These birds were often killed due to the misconception that they posed a threat to livestock or other wildlife.
Recent Increase in Golden Eagle Sightings
In recent years, the number of golden eagles observed in Ohio and throughout eastern North America has been increasing, with an average of 5 to 15 or more annually reported by Ohio birders in the late 1990s. This increase in sightings may be due to a combination of factors, including improved conservation efforts, changes in land use, and natural population fluctuations.
Suitable Habitat for Golden Eagles in Ohio
The Wilds in Muskingum County, which sits atop reclaimed strip mines and has much of its property as open grassland, is a suitable habitat for golden eagles in Ohio. This type of semi-open landscape with abundant prey is preferred by these birds.
Conclusion
While golden eagles are much rarer in Ohio compared to bald eagles, their presence in the state is well-documented. By understanding their habitat preferences and the best times and locations to spot them, birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can increase their chances of observing these majestic birds in the Buckeye State.
Reference:
– https://sora.unm.edu/sites/default/files/V26.4.OhioCardinal_Summer2003_p168-177_Golden%20Eagles%20in%20Ohio%20An%20Overview%20of%20the%20Species%20in%20Ohio%20and%20Eastern%20North%20America.pdf
– https://ohiodnr.gov/home/additional-resources/division-of-wildlife/bald-eagles-promo
– https://avibirds.com/eagles-in-ohio/
– https://www.dispatch.com/story/lifestyle/home-garden/how-to/2014/01/19/golden-eagles-rare-beautiful-sight/23561332007/
– https://badgerlandbirding.com/2023/03/31/eagles-of-ohio-two-species-to-know/
