Georgia has witnessed the presence of two out of the four eagle species found in North America. Specifically, the Bald Eagle and the Golden Eagle have been spotted in this region.
Eagles, known as the majestic rulers of the skies, owe their iconic status to their impressive size and strength, and their connection with humans has been both physical and psychological.
Humans hold eagles in high regard for their power and have utilized them as symbols representing strength and dominance. Moreover, eagles have aided in the practice of hunting.
Nevertheless, our treatment of these magnificent creatures has not always been benevolent; we have subjected them to persecution and destroyed their habitats, pushing several species to the brink of extinction.
Interestingly, eagles possess the incredible ability to carry loads up to four times their own body weight.
With a total of 60 eagle species across the globe, these birds are among the largest in size, with females generally surpassing males in dimensions.
For those fascinated by birds of prey, it is advisable to explore the comprehensive guides on hawks and vultures in Georgia. Additionally, witnessing the captivating live footage of eagle nesting and discovering intriguing facts about the Bald Eagle would prove immensely rewarding.
This guide specifically aims to aid in the identification of eagle species sighted in Georgia, using reliable data collected from bird enthusiasts on ebird and incorporating information from avibase.
Georgia’s Eagle Species
1. Bald Eagle
Throughout the year, Bald Eagles can be observed in Georgia, with their numbers peaking during winter, from mid-April to mid-May. Summer checklists indicate their presence in approximately 1% of the recorded observations, while winter checklists account for around 4% of sightings reported by dedicated bird watchers.
The Bald Eagle, widely recognized as a formidable bird of prey, boasts a distinctive white head, piercing yellow eyes, and a substantial hooked bill with a yellow hue. Its chocolate brown body contrasts with its yellow legs, which possess impressive talons.
While females resemble males in appearance, they are roughly 25% larger. Juvenile Bald Eagles exhibit dark brown heads and bodies adorned with variable white mottling or streaking until they reach maturity at around five years of age.
- Scientific Name: Haliaeetus leucocephalus
- Length: 34 – 43 inches (86 – 109 cm)
- Weight: 168 ounces (4761 g)
- Wingspan: 72 – 96 inches (183 – 244 cm)
Bald Eagles primarily breed in Canada, migrating to the United States for the winter. However, some individuals remain in their breeding territories year-round, particularly in coastal regions.
Breeding Bald Eagles seek wetland habitats, characterized by open, expansive bodies of water abundant in fish. Additionally, they require tall, mature trees with a spacious and visible structure, facilitating observation of the forest floor. Proximity to water sources is particularly crucial during the nesting period.
In winter, Bald Eagles congregate around areas with unfrozen water and plentiful perches, enabling easy access to fish. When unfrozen water sources are scarce, they tend to gather in open habitats containing medium-sized mammals, such as prairies and meadows.
Bald Eagles exhibit opportunistic feeding behavior, consuming available resources within their environment. Fish, especially large species like trout and salmon, constitute their preferred diet. They may catch fish independently or pilfer from other birds. On occasion, carrion (dead) fish are also included in their menu.
Furthermore, Bald Eagles prey upon medium to large-sized birds, including ducks, herons, owls, and geese. During the winter season, when fish are less abundant, they turn to mammals as their primary prey. Weaker, dying, or juvenile prey become initial targets, with rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, beavers, and deer fawns falling within their hunting purview.
Interestingly, the call of the Bald Eagle does not align with its impressive size, often producing a rather underwhelming high-pitched whistle!
Nests constructed by Bald Eagles possess remarkable robustness, ensuring they can withstand the weight and size of the occupants. These nests, made predominantly of sticks, measure approximately 6 feet in diameter and 4 feet in height. The male collects materials such as sticks, grass, moss, and downy feathers, which the female then arranges to complete the construction.
Bald Eagle nests claim the distinction of being the largest among North American bird species.
In the wild, females may lay anywhere from one to three eggs per year, while in captivity, their egg-laying capacity can reach up to seven. The parents take turns incubating the eggs for approximately thirty-five days, with the non-incubating partner responsible for procuring food to sustain the other.
Fun Fact: Despite its name, the Bald Eagle is not actually bald. Instead, the term “bald” in older usage referred to its white head and tail, signifying “white” rather than hairless.
2. Golden Eagle
Golden Eagles are a relatively rare sighting in Georgia, with sporadic appearances occurring during the winter months from November to February, primarily in the northern regions of the state.
Widely distributed, Golden Eagles are considered one of the most prevalent eagle species worldwide. The crown and nape of these eagles possess a captivating golden-brown hue, particularly dazzling when illuminated under favorable lighting conditions.
Their bodies feature darker brown plumage, accentuated by pale flight feathers. Eye color ranges from light yellow to dark brown. A yellow cere, the skin connecting the beak to the forehead, complements their bill, which exhibits a dark tip.
While adult Golden Eagles share a resemblance, females surpass males in size. Juveniles, too, possess similar characteristics, albeit with darker coloration that occasionally presents as black on their backs. Their wings showcase white patches on the underside, accompanied by hints of white on the tail.
- Scientific Name: Aquila chrysaetos
- Length: 27 – 38 inches (69 – 97 cm)
- Weight: 160 ounces (4534 g)
- Wingspan: 72 – 96 inches (183 – 244 cm)
Golden Eagles that breed in Canada and Alaska embark on southward migrations for winter, reaching the United States and northern Mexico. However, populations inhabiting the western US states remain in their territories throughout the year.
In their natural habitats, Golden Eagles can be found in mountainous regions, often situated far above the treeline. They also establish nests in canyons, cliffs along riversides, and bluffs, exhibiting a general inclination to avoid human presence.
For an immersive experience delving into the daily lives of Golden Eagles, feel free to explore the captivating video below, provided that you harbor no fear of heights!
As birds of prey, Golden Eagles naturally target small to medium-sized creatures like rabbits, prairie dogs, and hares. On occasion, they may successfully hunt and capture larger prey such as cranes, swans, and domestic livestock. Hunting is often a cooperative effort, with one eagle chasing the prey until exhaustion, while the other swoops in for the final attack.
Golden Eagles primarily vocalize during the breeding season when chicks beg for food and parents respond. Otherwise, they tend to maintain a relatively quiet demeanor, punctuated only by high-pitched whistled calls.
Nests belonging to Golden Eagles are typically situated at high elevations, such as on cliffs. However, they also utilize trees and man-made structures, including observation towers, nesting platforms, and even windmills. These lofty locations offer expansive views of their nesting and hunting territories.
The construction of Golden Eagle nests entails a period ranging from one to three months, with sticks and plant materials forming the core framework. Additionally, aromatic leaves are incorporated to repel insects and other unwanted pests. These nests are continually expanded by the adult eagles, growing in size over the years.
The female lays one to three eggs, and the parents take turns incubating them for a duration of forty-one to forty-five days. The chicks emerge from their shells within 37 hours.
Fun Fact: The Golden Eagle, along with the Rough-legged Hawk and the Ferruginous Hawk, are the only birds of prey in America that possess feathered legs extending to their toes.