Golden Eagles are present in Pennsylvania. These powerful raptors are not year-round residents or breeding birds within the state, but are primarily observed as a migratory species passing through during seasonal journeys.
Seasonal Presence and Key Habitats
Golden Eagles are typically seen in Pennsylvania during migration, with southbound movements occurring from mid-October through early December. Northbound migrations are observed in late winter and spring, with peak sightings at hawk-watch sites in March and April. While most Golden Eagles do not breed in Pennsylvania, some individuals occasionally winter in rugged, remote forest terrain. These eagles generally breed across central Canada, the western United States, Alaska, and mountainous parts of Mexico.
During migration and winter, Golden Eagles favor the Appalachian’s forested ridges and small openings. Pennsylvania hosts both migrating and wintering Golden Eagles, primarily within the Ridge and Valley Province, situated between the Allegheny Front and the Kittatinny Ridge. The eastern Golden Eagle population utilizes Appalachian mountain ridgelines for both southbound and northbound migrations, and winters on steep forested ridges.
Distinguishing Golden Eagles from Other Raptors
Distinguishing Golden Eagles from other large raptors in Pennsylvania, especially juvenile Bald Eagles, requires attention to specific features. Adult Golden Eagles have rich, dark-brown body plumage, characterized by gold-tipped feathers on the back of their head and neck. Unlike Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles have feathers extending all the way down to their toes, classifying them as “booted” eagles. In flight, Golden Eagles often appear to have a smaller head compared to their body size, and their wings may show a slight “V” shape, known as a dihedral, as they soar.
Immature Golden Eagles display distinct white patches under their wings and a broad white band at the base of their tail, which they lose as they mature. Conversely, immature Bald Eagles have a more mottled brown plumage with white splotches on their body and wings, rather than defined patches. Their legs are bare. The beak of a Golden Eagle remains brown throughout its life and is proportionally smaller than the large yellow beak of an adult Bald Eagle.
Conservation Efforts and Viewing Opportunities
The Golden Eagle is not currently on the federal threatened or endangered list, but it is designated as a vulnerable species in Pennsylvania. Golden Eagles are federally protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act prohibits the taking, killing, possession, or transportation of migratory birds, their eggs, parts, and nests without authorization. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act specifically safeguards both eagle species, making it illegal to harm or disturb them, their nests, or eggs. Pennsylvania has also increased state fines for harming bald or golden eagles.
Conservationists use satellite telemetry to track Golden Eagles, gaining insights into their movements and identifying critical migratory habitats. For those seeking to observe these raptors, Pennsylvania offers several prime viewing locations. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Kempton is a renowned site for watching migratory raptors, including Golden Eagles. Other notable hawk-watch sites include Waggoner’s Gap, near Carlisle, and the Allegheny Front, west of Bedford. The best times for sightings are typically soon after a cold front passes through the state, especially in late October and much of November.