Crested Eagles, also known as Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos), are known to be opportunistic predators and scavengers. They primarily feed on small mammals such as prairie dogs, squirrels, mice, voles, birds, snakes, large insects, lizards, foxes, young deer, and carrion. However, there is no direct evidence or documentation suggesting that Crested Eagles, or Golden Eagles, consume coyotes as part of their diet.

Crested Eagles’ Prey Preferences and Limitations

While Crested Eagles are powerful birds and have been observed attacking large mammals, they primarily target smaller prey due to their size and weight limitations. According to biologist Ron Clarke, bald eagles, a closely related species, can pick up and carry four or five pounds, maximum, and actually fly off with it. They can lift a little more and hop it along, but they can’t carry it off. This weight limitation suggests that Crested Eagles, which have a similar size and weight to bald eagles, would also struggle to carry larger prey such as coyotes.

Crested Eagles’ Hunting Behavior

Furthermore, Crested Eagles are known to be wary of human activity and are unlikely to hunt for prey in backyards or other areas with high human activity. This behavior further reduces the likelihood of Crested Eagles preying on coyotes, which are often found in urban and suburban areas.

Coyotes and Their Habitat

Image source: Long-crested eagle By Charles J. Sharp

Coyotes (Canis latrans) are medium-sized canines that are found throughout North America, including urban and suburban areas. They are known to be adaptable and opportunistic predators, feeding on a variety of small mammals, birds, insects, and even fruits and vegetables.

Coyote Behavior and Interactions with Crested Eagles

Coyotes are generally wary of larger predators, such as Crested Eagles, and are unlikely to engage in direct confrontations. Coyotes may occasionally scavenge on the remains of animals killed by Crested Eagles, but they are not a primary prey item for these powerful birds of prey.

Conclusion

In summary, while Crested Eagles are powerful predators and scavengers, there is no direct evidence or documentation suggesting that they consume coyotes as part of their diet. Their size and weight limitations, as well as their wariness of human activity, suggest that they are unlikely to prey on coyotes. Coyotes, on the other hand, are known to be adaptable and opportunistic predators, but they are generally wary of larger predators like Crested Eagles and are unlikely to be targeted as a primary prey item.

References:
– All About Birds: Golden Eagle
– BioExplorer: What Do Eagles Eat?
– The Nature Conservancy: Do Hawks Eat Pets?
– On the Wing Photography: A Coyote Doing What Coyotes Do
– IUCN Red List: Canis latrans
– All About Birds: Golden Eagle Identification