The Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a diverse array of bird species, including both the golden eagle and the bald eagle. While these majestic birds can be spotted in the park, they are considered rare and uncommon, respectively.
Presence of Golden Eagles in the Smoky Mountains
According to the list of birds found in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the golden eagle, Aquila chrysaetos, is classified as a rare (R) species in the park. This means that while the golden eagle has been observed in the park at least once, it is not a regular or expected sighting.
The golden eagle is a large bird of prey known for its powerful wings and striking golden-brown feathers on its head and neck. These birds are typically found in western North America, but their range can extend to the Smoky Mountains region, albeit rarely.
Characteristics of Golden Eagles
Image source: Golden Eagle by Atillak
Golden eagles are impressive birds, with a wingspan that can reach up to 7.5 feet (2.3 meters) and a body length of up to 3 feet (0.9 meters). They are known for their exceptional hunting skills, using their sharp talons and beak to capture a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, and even some larger animals.
These birds are also known for their impressive aerial displays, often soaring high above the landscape and performing acrobatic maneuvers. Their distinctive golden-brown plumage and white patches on their wings and tails make them easily recognizable in flight.
Bald Eagles in the Smoky Mountains
In addition to the golden eagle, the Smoky Mountains National Park is also home to the bald eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus. Unlike the golden eagle, the bald eagle is considered an uncommon (U) species in the park, meaning it is seen at least once per season or several times per year.
Bald eagles are known for their distinctive white heads and tails, and they are a symbol of the United States. These birds are typically found near water, such as rivers and lakes, where they feed primarily on fish.
Other Birds of Prey in the Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a diverse array of other bird species, including various hawks, kites, harriers, and Old World vultures. These birds of prey play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to maintain a balance in the park’s wildlife populations.
Some of the other notable birds of prey found in the Smoky Mountains include:
- Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
- Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii)
- Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus)
- Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus)
- Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura)
Salamanders and Other Wildlife in the Smoky Mountains
In addition to its diverse bird population, the Smoky Mountains National Park is also known for its rich salamander diversity. The park is home to five of the world’s nine families of salamanders, including the rare and unique red-cheeked salamander, which is found only in the Smokies.
The Smoky Mountains are also home to a wide variety of other wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, elk, and a variety of small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The park’s diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to high-elevation peaks, provide a rich and varied habitat for these and many other species.
Conclusion
While the golden eagle and bald eagle are both present in the Smoky Mountains National Park, they are considered rare and uncommon, respectively. The park is home to a wide variety of other bird species, as well as a rich diversity of salamanders and other wildlife. Visitors to the Smoky Mountains can enjoy the opportunity to catch a glimpse of these majestic birds and explore the park’s many natural wonders.
References:
– List of birds of Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Wikipedia
– Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Wikipedia
– Avian Report: Birds You Can See in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
