Yes, golden eagles are indeed present in the state of Oregon, including the Portland area, although they are more commonly found east of the Cascade Range. These majestic birds of prey are the largest raptors in Oregon, with females having a wingspan of up to seven and a half feet and males having a wingspan of up to seven feet.
Identifying Golden Eagles in Portland
Golden eagles are distinguished by their large size and massive bill, which can make it difficult to distinguish them from other dark raptors, such as immature bald eagles, from a distance. However, there are a few key features that can help identify them:
- Size: Golden eagles are the largest raptors in Oregon, with a wingspan that can reach up to 7.5 feet for females and 7 feet for males.
- Plumage: Adult golden eagles have dark brown feathers with a distinctive golden-brown nape and upper back.
- Bill: Golden eagles have a large, hooked bill that is well-suited for tearing prey.
- Tail: Golden eagles have a distinctive long, wedge-shaped tail.
Habitat and Prey of Golden Eagles in Portland
Golden eagles are known to inhabit a variety of habitats, including open ponderosa pine and mixed conifer/deciduous forests. In the Portland area, they have been found to nest in southwest Oregon, Eastern Oregon, and a few locations in northwest Oregon and the Willamette Valley.
These birds of prey primarily feed on:
- Jackrabbits
- Ground squirrels
- Marmots
- Other birds
Threats to Golden Eagles in Portland
While golden eagles are present in the Portland area, their nesting sites can be vulnerable to human activity, such as:
- Hiking
- Rock climbing
- Road construction
- Timber harvest
These activities can disturb nesting golden eagles and potentially cause nest abandonment or failure.
Conservation Efforts for Golden Eagles in Portland
To protect golden eagles in Oregon, the Oregon Forest Practices Act (FPA) requires the protection of active nest trees and any identified key components, such as forested areas around the nest trees that provide perching, fledging, and replacement trees.
It is important for those planning forest operations in the Portland area to work with the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) to ensure the protection of these resource sites and to implement timing restrictions for forest operations outside of the nesting season, which runs from January 1 to September 30.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while golden eagles are present in the Portland area and other parts of Oregon, they are more commonly found east of the Cascade Range. These majestic birds of prey require protection during their nesting season to ensure their continued presence in the state. By working with the Oregon Department of Forestry and following the guidelines set forth in the Oregon Forest Practices Act, we can help to preserve the golden eagle population in the Portland area and beyond.
References:
– Wildlife in Managed Forests: Golden Eagles and Forestry – Oregon Forest Resources Institute (PDF)
– Bald Eagles on the Rise – Bluedot Living
– Raptors | Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife
