Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
Description
Golden Eagles are named for their golden colored head that tapers down the back of their neck. The rest of their plumage is a chocolate brown with lighter mottling. Golden Eagles are feathered to the feet. Juveniles look similar to adults, but they have a broad white band on their upper tail and white patches at the base of their primaries. It takes five years for eagles to reach maturity and gain their adult plumage.
Diet
Golden Eagles will prey on mammals of all sizes and also eat carrion, especially in the winter.
Migration
In Colorado, there are populations of Golden Eagles who stay year-round and populations that winter here from northern areas.
Breeding
Nests are built on high cliffs or trees, using thick branches. The females will lay one to two eggs per brood and the babies will fledge in nine to ten weeks.