Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) 

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Identification

• very large, dark raptor
• adult has dark brown plumage, golden wash on head and neck feathers (which look dark in poor light)
• undertail feathers and legs are buff-colored
• juvenile has light patches at base of primaries under the wing
• tail of juvenile white with dark terminal band
• 30" (76 cm.)

Habitat

• hunts over open areas, roosts in remote stands of large conifers or hardwoods

Additional Information

• uncommon migrant, rare winter resident
• soars over bluffs, sails along ridgelines
• species of the western U.S., has local wintering areas farther east including western Wisconsin
• may be confused with immature Bald Eagle or dark-phase Rough-legged Hawk
• powerful and agile hunter