Golden Eagle

The golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is a large raptor of open alpine and subalpine terrain; cliffs, ridges, and meadows above treeline. In Banff National Park, golden eagles inhabit the high country, sharing airspace with Bald Eagles (which favour waterways) and osprey.

Identification

Dark brown body; golden-brown nape and crown (visible at close range); wingspan to 7.5 feet (2.3 m). Immatures have white patches on wings and tail base. Distinguished from bald eagle: adults lack white head and tail; younger bald eagles are mottled and harder to tell apart.

Habitat and diet

Golden eagles prefer open alpine and subalpine terrain; ridges, cliffs, talus. Prey: ground squirrels, marmots, pikas, ptarmigan, hares, carrion. Nest on cliffs; often reuse sites annually.

Behaviour

Solitary or in pairs; soaring and gliding with wings held in a slight V. Dive on prey at high speed. Territorial during breeding (March–July).

Viewing

Prime locations include the Icefields Parkway (Parker Ridge, Sunwapta), high ridges above Lake Louise, and the Back Bowls area. Use binoculars; maintain distance. Nest sites are sensitive; Parks Canada may close trails during breeding.

Runs

The resort’s Eagle area; Eagle Flight, Eagle Meadows, Eagle Poma; is named for raptors of the alpine; golden eagles are the species most associated with the high terrain above the resort.