top of page
Bird
AZ places Camping-Made-Easy
Bird

Arizona's WildLife

"Where the Wild Things Roam"

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos
Bird
poison.png

Watch cliff edges and open meadows.

The golden eagle is a large, powerful bird of prey found throughout Arizona’s mountains, cliffs, and open landscapes. Recognizable by its dark brown body and striking golden feathers on the back of its head and neck, this raptor is an adept hunter, preying on mammals, birds, and reptiles. Golden eagles are often seen soaring gracefully over cliffs, canyons, and open terrain, using thermals to conserve energy while searching for food. They build large nests on cliffs or in tall trees, which are often reused and expanded year after year. As apex predators, golden eagles play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and are a breathtaking sight for wildlife observers across Arizona.

Bird

Bird

Identification & Behavior

Key Features: Dark body, golden head feathers

Size: 27–33 in tall, 6–15 lbs

Behavior: Soars for long periods scanning for prey.

Diet: Carnivore — rabbits, ground squirrels, birds

Activity Pattern: Diurnal

Habitat & Distribution​

Found statewide in deserts, grasslands, and mountainous regions. Prefers open terrain, cliffs, and forested highlands near the Mogollon Rim, Kaibab Plateau, and White Mountains. Present in Coconino, Kaibab, Prescott, and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

Elevation Range: 3,000–9,000 ft

Seasonal Presence: Year-round

Risks & Management

Keep distance from nesting sites.

poison.png

Fun Fact: One of the fastest birds, diving 150+ mph.

bottom of page