GOLDEN EAGLE.
Aquila chrysaetos.
'The Emperors Bird'
IDENTIFICATION. Large broad wings with finger like feathering at the tips and a prominent head and bill distinguish the second largest of the UK raptors. The plumage is dark brown with the head and back of the neck a light golden brown colour. Feathers extend down the legs to the large yellow feet. In flight the tail is broad and rounded being closed for gliding. Young birds can be distinguished from the same sized adults by their white wing patches and a white tail tipped with black.
Could only be mistaken for another eagle such as the falconers Tawny Eagle or the rare White-tailed Sea Eagle.
IN FLIGHT. When soaring the seven foot wingspan is held flat with the tail and wing tips spread out to catch more lift. Although a large bird the Golden Eagle is capable of fast stoops and quick glides, closing the broad tail and flexing the wings to aid aerodynamics. At the beginning of the breeding season display flying consists of deep undulating swoops with the wings drawn into the body.
DISTRIBUTION. A large bird of mountain moorland, the Golden Eagle is found mainly in the Scottish Highlands and occasionally in the English Lake District. Breeding populations are also being introduced into the North West of Ireland.
WHEN SEEN. All year round.
FOOD. Mammals up to hare size. Birds to the size of Ptarmigan. Carrion.
BREEDING. March. 1 to 3 eggs laid in a large stick nest in tall trees or on cliffs. Young hatch after 45 days, flying 35-70 days later.
SIZE. 75-88cm (30-35ins)
WEIGHT. 3.5kg-5.5kg (7lb-12lb+)
WINGSPAN. 214cm (7ft)
CALL. tweei-oo. kiek.
FALCONRY.
Hares are the usual prey falconers fly Golden Eagles at, although fox hunting is also practised (this can be risky). In Mongolia teams of Golden Eagles are flown at wolves!
Expensive, temperamental and having a fondness for next doors poodle this large bird is probably best left to those who really know what they are doing and have access to large tracks of land. If you are thinking of taking up an eagle find an (eagle) experienced Austringer and study hard.
NB. If you buy one of these raptors it should be fitted with a closed leg ring and have an Article 10 form with it (any queries check with DEFRA).
Falconry marks
