In Washington State (USA) over the last few decades we have seen a resurgence of the numbers of Bald Eagles Haliaeetus leucocephalus. Unfortunately the Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos, our other native eagle species has not fared as well. It is widely accepted that the crash in the population of Bald Eagles was due to reproductive failure related to the pesticide DDT which led to fragile egg shells. Since this was banned in the U.S. and Canada their populations (along with Peregrine Falcons, Brown Pelicans and several other high on the food chain species) has recovered.
Bald Eagles, a member of the fish eagle family, are largely scavangers, and in WA follow the salmon runs. At a river with an active salmon run we sometimes see dozens or even hundreds of Bald Eagles in the non breeding season.
Golden Eagles, more closely related to other land-based eagles, on the other hand are generally birds that rely on prey in habitat that is markedly reduced due to agriculture and development. The population in WA may be down to 75-100 breeding pairs.
They are a special sight to see and always exciting.
This is an Golden Eagle that has been tagged with a tracking device.
Both of our eagle species are supreme hunters, and really can take almost any prey that they choose. Here this Golden Eagle takes a Gray Partridge.
Overall seeing eagles makes living in our area as a birder more exciting and interesting.
Good birding.
