Golden eagles are among the fastest birds in the world, capable of reaching impressive speeds both in the air and while diving towards prey. In level flight, a golden eagle can reach speeds of up to 32 miles per hour. However, when hunting or displaying, their speed increases significantly.
The Incredible Speed of the Golden Eagle
Golden eagles can glide at speeds of up to 120 miles per hour and have been recorded diving for prey at up to 150 miles per hour. In fact, when stooping (diving) in the direction of prey or during territorial displays, a golden eagle can reach speeds of up to 240 to 320 kilometers per hour (150 to 200 miles per hour). This makes the golden eagle one of the two fastest living animals, alongside the peregrine falcon.
Soaring and Gliding Speeds
When soaring, golden eagles can maintain a typical, unhurried speed of around 45-52 kilometers per hour (28-32 miles per hour). Their unique flying style, characterized by broad, long wings with finger-like indentations on the tips and a slight dihedral, allows them to glide at impressive speeds of up to 120 miles per hour.
Diving Speeds
The golden eagle’s most impressive speed is displayed during its hunting dives. When stooping (diving) in the direction of prey or during territorial displays, a golden eagle can reach speeds of up to 240 to 320 kilometers per hour (150 to 200 miles per hour). This makes them one of the fastest living animals on the planet, second only to the peregrine falcon.
Factors Contributing to Speed
The golden eagle’s impressive speed is not only a product of its powerful wings but also its strong body and sharp talons, which it uses to snatch up a variety of prey, mainly hares, rabbits, marmots, and other ground squirrels. They are also capable of carrying nearly three times their own weight when hunting.
Comparison to Other Raptors
While the golden eagle is one of the fastest birds, it is not the only raptor known for its impressive speed. The peregrine falcon, for example, is considered the fastest animal on the planet, capable of reaching speeds of up to 240 miles per hour during a dive.
| Bird | Top Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | 240 |
| Golden Eagle | 200 |
| Gyrfalcon | 150 |
| Saker Falcon | 140 |
| Merlin | 130 |
Conclusion
In summary, golden eagles are incredibly fast birds, reaching speeds of up to 32 miles per hour in level flight, 120 miles per hour while gliding, and up to 200 miles per hour when diving after prey. Their unique flying style, powerful wings, and sharp talons make them formidable hunters and impressive aerial predators.
