The Golden Eagle and the Bald Eagle are prominent North American raptors, often sparking curiosity about their comparative sizes. Both species command respect, leading many to wonder which is larger. Examining their physical dimensions offers a direct comparison of these iconic birds of prey.
A Direct Look at Size
When comparing the overall size of Golden Eagles and Bald Eagles, there is significant overlap, though Bald Eagles tend to be slightly larger on average. A Bald Eagle typically has a body length ranging from 28 to 40 inches (70-102 cm), with a wingspan between 5 feet 11 inches and 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters). Their weight generally falls between 6.6 and 13.9 pounds (3 to 6.3 kg), with larger females sometimes exceeding 15 pounds (6.8 kg).
Golden Eagles measure about 26 to 40 inches (66-102 cm) in body length, with a wingspan of 5 feet 11 inches to 7 feet 8 inches (1.8 to 2.34 meters). Their weight typically ranges from 6.2 to 14.8 pounds (2.8 to 6.7 kg). The Bald Eagle generally has a slightly broader wingspan and can be heavier on average.
Key Physical Differences
Beyond size, distinct physical characteristics differentiate adult Golden Eagles from Bald Eagles. Adult Bald Eagles are recognized by their white head and tail, which contrast with their dark brown body feathers. Their large, hooked beaks and legs are bright yellow.
Golden Eagles have predominantly dark brown plumage, with a golden-brown wash on the nape and back of the head. Their beaks are black-tipped with a gray base and are generally more proportional to their head size compared to the Bald Eagle’s larger beak. A distinguishing feature is the feathering on their legs: Golden Eagles have feathers extending all the way down to their feet, giving them a “booted” appearance, while Bald Eagles have unfeathered, yellow lower legs and feet.
Habitat and Hunting Strategies
Golden Eagles and Bald Eagles occupy different ecological niches, influencing their preferred habitats and hunting methods. Bald Eagles primarily inhabit areas near large bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and coastal regions, where fish are abundant. They are skilled at catching fish from the water, snatching them with their talons, and are also known to scavenge carrion. Their broad wings are well-suited for soaring over open water.
Golden Eagles prefer open or semi-open landscapes, including mountains, grasslands, and deserts. They are powerful predators that primarily hunt medium-sized mammals like rabbits, ground squirrels, and marmots, as well as various birds. Golden Eagles hunt by soaring high or flying low over terrain, spotting prey from above, and then executing a swift dive to capture it. They are less inclined to scavenge compared to Bald Eagles and are known for their precision and agility in terrestrial hunting.