Yes, golden eagles can be found in Tennessee, although they are rare and their population numbers are not well-known. In the past, captive-raised golden eagles were released in Tennessee as part of a reintroduction program, with 47 birds released between 1995 and 2006 on Chickamauga and Douglas lakes. In 2012, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) managed 15 bait sites for golden eagles and documented them at 6 different locations in eastern Tennessee.
Identifying Golden Eagles in Tennessee
Golden eagles are larger than bald eagles, with females being approximately 20% larger than males. Adult golden eagles have a uniform dark brown body and a dark head, while immature birds have a mix of dark brown and white scattered throughout their plumage. They have feathered legs, and the white on the underside of their wings is limited to a patch on the flight feathers. They soar with the outer part of their wings lifted in a slight “V”.
Feeding Habits and Nesting Behavior
Golden eagles are opportunistic feeders and prefer fish, but they will also eat large birds, injured waterfowl, mammals, and carrion. They form long-term pair bonds that usually last the life of the birds. In Tennessee, egg laying peaks in late February, and the clutch size is usually 2 eggs, but occasionally 1 or 3 eggs. Both parents incubate from 34 to 36 days, and both adults feed the nestlings, which leave the nest in 10 to 12 weeks. The male assists the female in building a large bulky nest in the top of a large tree near an opening that can accommodate the nest.
Population and Conservation Efforts
Although there is no specific data on the number of golden eagles in Tennessee, they are known to be present in the state, particularly in the eastern region. The TWRA and TNC have documented golden eagles at 6 different locations in eastern Tennessee, indicating that they are present in the state.
In the past, captive-raised golden eagles were released in Tennessee as part of a reintroduction program, with 47 birds released between 1995 and 2006 on Chickamauga and Douglas lakes. This effort was aimed at increasing the population of golden eagles in the state.
Threats and Challenges
Golden eagles face several threats, including habitat loss, collisions with power lines and wind turbines, and illegal hunting. In Tennessee, the main threats to golden eagles include habitat loss due to development and the expansion of human activities, as well as the potential for collisions with power lines and wind turbines.
To address these threats, conservation efforts have been undertaken in Tennessee. The TWRA and TNC have collaborated to monitor golden eagle populations and identify important habitats for the species. Additionally, efforts have been made to educate the public about the importance of golden eagles and the need to protect their habitat.
Conclusion
In conclusion, golden eagles can be found in Tennessee, although their population numbers are not well-known. Conservation efforts have been undertaken to monitor and protect this species, but more work is needed to ensure the long-term survival of golden eagles in the state.
References:
– https://www.tnwatchablewildlife.org/unaka.cfm
– https://newschannel9.com/sports/outdoors/tennessee-hunter-catches-video-of-golden-eagle-diving-at-deer
– https://archive.knoxnews.com/news/local/golden-eagles-coming-back-in-east-tennessee-ep-361090701-357149911.html
– https://www.tnwatchablewildlife.org/GoldenEagles.cfm
– https://www.tn.gov/twra/wildlife/birds/bald-eagle.html
