According to the North Carolina Bird Club, there have been no confirmed records of golden eagles nesting in Onslow County, North Carolina. While there have been sightings of golden eagles in the mountains of North Carolina during the summer, these are believed to be transient individuals passing through, rather than resident breeding pairs.
What is a Golden Eagle?
Golden eagles are the largest raptors in North Carolina, with a wingspan that can reach up to 7.5 feet. They are powerful hunters that primarily feed on mammals, such as rabbits, hares, and ground squirrels. Despite their impressive size and hunting abilities, golden eagles are not commonly seen in the eastern half of the United States, including North Carolina.
Onslow County’s Bird Diversity
Image source: Golden Eagle by Atillak
While there are no golden eagles in Onslow County, there are many other bird species that can be found in the area. The North Carolina Bird Club’s county listing for Onslow includes 315 species, ranging from hawks and owls to woodpeckers and waterfowl. Some of the raptors that can be found in Onslow County include the red-tailed hawk, red-shouldered hawk, and the Cooper’s hawk.
Birdwatching in Onslow County
For those interested in birdwatching in Onslow County, there are several resources available. The North Carolina Bird Club’s county listing provides a comprehensive list of the bird species that have been recorded in the county, as well as the locations where they have been sighted. The club also offers field trips and other events that provide opportunities for birdwatchers to learn more about the birds in the area and to connect with other birdwatching enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, while there are no golden eagles in Onslow County, there are many other bird species that can be found in the area. The North Carolina Bird Club’s county listing is a valuable resource for birdwatchers, providing a comprehensive list of the bird species that have been recorded in the county and the locations where they have been sighted.
References:
– North Carolina Bird Club. (n.d.). Golden Eagle – Birds of North Carolina. Retrieved from http://ncbirds.carolinabirdclub.org/view.php?species_id=208
– North Carolina Bird Club. (n.d.). Onslow – 315 species – Birds of North Carolina. Retrieved from http://ncbirds.carolinabirdclub.org/county_list.php?Submit=Submit&county=Onslow&search_type=County+List
– Center for Biological Diversity. (2007). Bald Eagle Population – Center for Biological Diversity. Retrieved from https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/species/birds/bald_eagle/report/index.html.
