Golden eagles are not known to reside or breed in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania. However, they are regular migrants in the area, passing through during specific times of the year.
Migration Patterns of Golden Eagles in Philadelphia County
According to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, golden eagles are most commonly observed in Philadelphia County during their mid-October through early December southbound migration. They are also seen during their northbound migration in late winter and spring, with the peak sightings occurring in March and April.
During their migration, golden eagles prefer the forested ridges and small openings of the Appalachian Mountains, which are located within the Ridge and Valley Province between the Allegheny Front and the Kittatinny Ridge. This region is known to provide suitable habitat for these large birds of prey.
Physical Characteristics of Golden Eagles
Image source: Golden Eagle by Atillak
Golden eagles are the largest eagles in North America, with a body length of 28 to 40 inches, a wingspan of 6 to more than 7 feet, and a standing height of about 2 feet. They have a distinctive appearance, with rich, dark-brown body plumage and gold-tipped feathers on the back of their head and neck.
Compared to bald eagles, golden eagles have a more pronounced tail that protrudes noticeably more than their head. In flight, they hold their wings in a slight “V” shape, which is different from the flat plane of bald eagles. Golden eagles are also shaped more like buteo hawks, with long, rounded wings, and they tend to flap less and soar more than bald eagles.
Feeding Habits of Golden Eagles
Golden eagles are carnivorous and prey on a variety of small to medium-sized animals, including rodents, hares, rabbits, birds, reptiles, and fish. They are capable of killing large animals and use their sharp talons to crush their prey, then use their large, hooked beaks to rip it apart for eating.
Monitoring and Conservation Efforts
While golden eagles are not known to breed in Philadelphia County, the Pennsylvania Game Commission and volunteer eagle-watchers conduct a mid-winter bald eagle survey to monitor the population of these magnificent birds in the state. This survey helps to provide valuable data on the presence and distribution of eagles, including golden eagles, in Pennsylvania.
In conclusion, while golden eagles are not residents of Philadelphia County, they are regular migrants in the area, passing through during specific times of the year. Their large size, distinctive flight patterns, and carnivorous diet make them a captivating species to observe and learn about.
References:
– Eagles & Osprey Wildlife Note – PA Game Commission. (n.d.). Pennsylvania Game Commission. Retrieved April 22, 2024, from https://www.pgc.pa.gov/Education/WildlifeNotesIndex/Pages/EaglesOsprey.aspx
– Golden Eagle | Hawk Mountain Sanctuary: Learn Visit Join. (n.d.). Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. Retrieved April 22, 2024, from https://www.hawkmountain.org/raptors/golden-eagle
– Bald Eagle – PA Game Commission. (n.d.). Pennsylvania Game Commission. Retrieved April 22, 2024, from https://www.pgc.pa.gov/Wildlife/EndangeredandThreatened/Pages/BaldEagle.aspx
