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.