Do Black Eagles Eat Coyotes?

Black eagles, also known as golden eagles, are birds of prey that are known to eat a variety of organisms, including coyotes. However, it is important to note that coyotes are not a common prey item for black eagles. Black eagles primarily feed on small mammals, carrion, and occasionally other birds.

According to the National Park Service, black eagles are known to eat rodents, insects, elk calves, pine nuts, grasses, and other vegetation. They are also known to eat coyotes, fish, bears, birds, and other animals. However, it is important to note that black eagles are not typically considered to be a significant predator of coyotes.

There are several videos and articles that discuss the interactions between black eagles and coyotes. For example, one video from BBC Earth shows a coyote and a bald eagle fighting over a carcass in Yellowstone National Park. The video suggests that the coyote was able to successfully defend the carcass from the eagle.

Another article from the Raptor Resource Project discusses the interactions between eagles, coyotes, and Northern harriers. The article notes that coyotes are known to eat birds, but it is almost impossible for them to catch an uninjured adult bird. The article also notes that coyotes can move around and access new food resources on the ice during the winter months, which may bring them into closer proximity to eagles and other birds.

Prey Preferences of Black Eagles

Image source: Black Eagle by Mike Prince

Black eagles are known to primarily feed on small mammals, such as rabbits, hares, and ground squirrels. They are also known to feed on carrion, which can include the remains of larger animals, such as deer or elk.

In addition to small mammals and carrion, black eagles are also known to feed on other birds, such as waterfowl, grouse, and even other raptors. They are skilled hunters and are able to catch their prey in the air or on the ground.

Factors Affecting Black Eagle Hunting Behavior

There are several factors that can affect the hunting behavior of black eagles, including:

Availability of Prey: The availability of their preferred prey, such as small mammals and carrion, can influence the hunting behavior of black eagles. If their preferred prey is scarce, they may be more likely to target other animals, such as coyotes.
Habitat and Terrain: The habitat and terrain of the area can also affect the hunting behavior of black eagles. They are known to prefer open areas, such as grasslands and mountainous regions, where they can easily spot and catch their prey.
Competition with Other Predators: Black eagles may also be influenced by the presence of other predators, such as coyotes, in their hunting area. If there is competition for the same prey, black eagles may be more likely to target other animals, such as coyotes, in order to secure their own food source.

Conclusion

In summary, while black eagles are known to eat coyotes, it is not a common occurrence. Black eagles primarily feed on small mammals, carrion, and other birds. Coyotes are not typically considered to be a significant prey item for black eagles. However, there are situations where coyotes and black eagles may come into conflict over food resources, such as carcasses.

Do Black Eagles Eat Coyotes?

Do Black Eagles Eat Coyotes?