No, there are no Harpy Eagles in Minnesota. The two eagle species found in Minnesota are the Bald Eagle and the Golden Eagle.
Bald Eagles in Minnesota
Bald Eagles are a common sight across the state of Minnesota. They can be easily identified by their brown body, white head and tail, and large yellow bill. Bald Eagles primarily feed on fish, but they will also consume amphibians, mammals, reptiles, and carrion.
The best places to see Bald Eagles in Minnesota are around dams or other areas where fish congregate, or in forests near rivers and bodies of water that are far away from human habitation.
Golden Eagles in Minnesota
Image source: Harpy Eagle by Bjørn Christian Tørrissen
Golden Eagles are larger raptors that can be found in Minnesota, but they are less common than Bald Eagles. They are brown in color with slightly lighter feathers mixed in, and they have a white band on the tail and golden-colored feathers on the nape of their neck.
Golden Eagles primarily feed on mammals such as squirrels and rabbits, but they will also eat birds and have been known to take on larger prey such as deer or even other larger predators like coyotes.
In Minnesota, Golden Eagles can be seen along the Mississippi River as well as in other areas in the state on a more sporadic basis. The easiest way to spot them is by looking for them soaring over open or mountainous areas.
Differences Between Bald and Golden Eagles
While both Bald and Golden Eagles are large, impressive birds of prey, there are several key differences between the two species:
| Characteristic | Bald Eagle | Golden Eagle |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Smaller, with a wingspan of 6-8 feet | Larger, with a wingspan of 6-8 feet |
| Coloration | Brown body, white head and tail | Brown body, with golden feathers on the nape of the neck |
| Habitat | Near bodies of water, such as rivers and lakes | Open areas, such as mountains and prairies |
| Diet | Primarily fish, but also small mammals and carrion | Primarily small to medium-sized mammals, such as rabbits and squirrels |
Conclusion
In summary, while Minnesota is home to two species of eagles, the Bald Eagle and the Golden Eagle, there are no Harpy Eagles found in the state. Bald Eagles are the more common of the two, and can be seen throughout the state, while Golden Eagles are less common and can be spotted along the Mississippi River and in other areas of the state.
References:
– Birdwatching HQ – Eagles in Minnesota
– Badgerland Birding – Eagles of Minnesota: Two Species to Know
– Minnesota Department of Natural Resources – Golden Eagle Tracking
