How Big Are Golden Eagles? Discover Their Wingspan and Size

Golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) are some of the most majestic birds in the world. They are massive, with wingspans larger than the height of an average man. On top of their size, they are excellent hunters and are widely distributed across the world. Whether soaring in the air or perched on a ledge, these birds are a sight to see. Let’s take a closer look and discover the wingspan and size of a golden eagle.

Golden Eagle Wingspan and Size

Golden eagles are about 2.75 feet long and weigh between 6.6 and 13.5 pounds, with females typically being larger than males. A female golden eagle banded in 2006 in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, officially weighed 17 pounds, setting the record for the heaviest wild-caught individual. Their wings are broad and long, with a wingspan measuring between 6.06 and 7.2 feet, which places them among the largest birds in North America.

Golden eagles have plumage that ranges from dark to light brown. The feathers on the back of their neck and head have a slight golden sheen, giving them their name. They have white spots near their tail and on their wings when they are juveniles, but these turn brown as they age. Their legs are feathered and they have yellow feet. They have bluish-black beaks with yellow at the base. The oldest known wild golden eagle was 31 years and 8 months old, but they have been known to live up to 46 years in captivity.

Where Do Golden Eagles Live?

Golden eagles are the most widely distributed eagle in the world. They can be found as far north as Alaska, Siberia, and Norway, often preferring these sparse climates. In the United States, they are found as far south as Mexico and as far east as New England. In Asia, they are found across all of Russia and as far south as Manchuria in China. They are found in a few countries in Europe, notably Scandinavia, France, and Spain. Their southernmost ranges are found in Africa, extending into Ethiopia.

Although they are found in almost every type of climate, golden eagles generally prefer open areas with vegetation. They tend to avoid urban development and often seek out mountainous and rocky areas. The highest concentrations of golden eagles are found in mountainous regions, but they also inhabit other types of environments. They can be found in scrublands near the Arctic, taiga forests, evergreen forests, deserts, and semi-arid regions. Golden eagles are incredibly hardy birds that can live in almost any environment.

In many regions, the golden eagle is migratory. Golden eagles are typically solitary, and large groups are rarely observed together in the wild. When the temperature drops, the eagles that face food shortages will head south until food is present again. Their migrations are typically driven by the need for breeding or food, rather than an inability to withstand harsh conditions.

How Far Can a Golden Eagle Fly?

With those massive wings, it’s no surprise that golden eagles can fly rather far distances. During migration, golden eagles have been recorded traveling up to 315 miles in a single day, though they usually cover much shorter distances on a daily basis. Their territory typically covers about 77 square miles, although this can vary depending on the availability of food.

When soaring in the air, a golden eagle can reach speeds averaging around 30mph. Flying speeds can reach up to 80mph. When tucking in their wings and diving, a golden eagle has been recorded reaching speeds of nearly 200mph, making them some of the fastest animals in the world.