Scientific Name: Aquila chrysaetos; named for the Greek words
for golden eagle. Life Span: Based on banding records, most
birds live less than two years, although some wild birds have
lived to be 11 years old. One captive bird lived to age 48.
range from 6.5- 9.5 pounds, females from 8-13 pounds. The golden
eagle is 30-40 inches in length with a wingspread of 60-80
inches. Females are generally larger, although there is some
size overlap. Range: The golden eagle ranges throughout most of
North America and in portions of Eurasia and northern Africa.
This species breeds in the western United States and parts of
the southwestern Canadian provinces and northern Mexico. Any of
the lower 48 states may have migrant or wintering birds. In
South Dakota, golden eagles nest mainly west of the Missouri
River, but may winter in other parts of the state. golden eagle
is named for the golden brown feathers of its head and nape. Its
eyes and beak are dark-colored. The body is mostly dark brown,
and feathers completely cover