Yes, there are Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) present in Virginia Beach, although they are not as commonly seen as other raptors in the area. These majestic birds of prey are known for their preference for vast open landscapes, such as those with cliffs, mountains, or hills.
Identifying Golden Eagles
Golden Eagles are large birds, with both sexes having a length of 27.6-33.1 in (70-84 cm), a wingspan of 72.8-86.6 in (185-220 cm), and weighing between 105.8-216.1 oz (3000-6125 g). They have broad wings like a Red-tailed Hawk’s but longer, with a relatively small head and a long tail that projects farther behind than the head sticks out in front.
Golden Eagles in Virginia
Although Golden Eagles do not breed in Virginia, they can be observed during late winter and early spring, with 1 to 3 precious eggs arriving in the state. These magnificent birds are known for their remarkable nesting behaviors, hunting prowess, and cultural significance, which have captivated the hearts of both nature enthusiasts and local communities alike.
Best Spots for Spotting Golden Eagles in Virginia
In Virginia, the search for majestic eagles can lead nature enthusiasts to breathtaking locations, such as:
- Shenandoah National Park
- Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
- The James River
- Mason Neck State Park
These areas offer prime eagle-watching opportunities, with the birds often found near large bodies of water and open spaces where food is abundant.
Golden Eagles in the Appalachian Mountains
Golden Eagles are also part of a significant resource in Virginia and throughout the central Appalachian mountains, with a population that breeds in northeastern Canada and migrates through the central Appalachians of New York and Pennsylvania to winter in Virginia, West Virginia, and neighboring states. Their winter range in Virginia is primarily associated with the Appalachians, although some birds may also be found in the Coastal Plain and records exist for the Piedmont.
Conservation Efforts
The presence of Golden Eagles in Virginia has inspired conservation efforts and protective measures to ensure their continued presence in the skies of the state and beyond. These efforts aim to safeguard the habitats and resources these majestic birds rely on, ensuring their long-term survival and the opportunity for future generations to witness their awe-inspiring presence.
References:
– Golden Eagle Identification, All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Golden_Eagle/id
– Eagles in Virginia (With Pictures) – Avibirds.com, https://avibirds.com/eagles-in-virginia/
– Discovering Virginia’s Golden Eagles | Virginia DWR, https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/discovering-virginias-golden-eagles/
– 2 Types of Eagles Found in Virginia! (ID Guide) – Bird Watching HQ, https://birdwatchinghq.com/eagles-in-virginia/
– Virginia Golden Eagle Research and Conservation, https://dwr.virginia.gov/wildlife/birds/golden-eagle/
