No, there are no Harpy Eagles in New York. Harpy Eagles are a large and powerful species of eagle that are native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, primarily found in Mexico, Central America, and northern parts of South America. They are not found in the state of New York or anywhere else in the United States.
Native Eagles of New York
While Harpy Eagles are not present in New York, the state is home to two species of eagles that are commonly seen:
- Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
- Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
Bald Eagles in New York
Bald Eagles are a common sight in New York, particularly around bodies of water and dams where fish congregate. They are easily identified by their distinctive brown body, white head and tail, and large yellow bill. Adult Bald Eagles have a completely white head and tail, while juveniles have varying degrees of mottled white mixed in with brown.
Bald Eagles primarily feed on fish, but they will also consume amphibians, mammals, reptiles, and carrion. They are a success story in conservation, as their populations have rebounded significantly since the 1960s when they were nearly wiped out due to hunting, habitat loss, and the use of pesticides like DDT.
Golden Eagles in New York
Golden Eagles, on the other hand, are less common in New York and are typically associated with the plains of the western United States. They are large raptors with a brown body and slightly lighter feathers mixed in. Golden Eagles have a distinctive white band on their tail, and the nape of their neck has golden-colored feathers. Immature birds have white at the base of their primary feathers, which is visible in flight from underneath.
Golden Eagles primarily feed on live mammals such as ground squirrels and marmots, but in the winter, they will also feed on carrion and waterfowl, often associating with wintering Bald Eagles. Despite being protected in the United States since 1963, Golden Eagle populations have declined in the northeastern states due to various factors, including shooting, accidental trapping, human disturbance at nest sites, loss of essential open hunting habitat, and possibly pesticide contamination.
In New York, Golden Eagles are listed as endangered, and there are currently no active nests known in the state. However, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) continues to monitor historic eyries in hopes that they may be used again.
Conclusion
Image source: Águia Harpia – Harpy Eagle by Jonathan Wilkins
In summary, while Harpy Eagles are not found in New York, birdwatchers in the state can enjoy spotting Bald Eagles, and with some effort, they may also be able to catch a glimpse of the elusive Golden Eagle.
References:
– Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons in New York
– Golden Eagle in New York
– Eagles of New York: Two Species to Know
