Eagles are birds of prey known for their impressive wingspans and powerful builds. These apex predators soar through diverse landscapes, from coastal regions to vast mountain ranges. Their diets are as varied as their habitats, allowing them to adapt to different environments and available food sources.
Eagles and Mice
While eagles generally target larger prey, mice and other small rodents can occasionally be part of their diet. Eagles are opportunistic hunters, seizing available food when primary prey is scarce. Smaller or younger eagles might more frequently include mice in their meals. However, mice are not a significant food source for most eagle species, which require more substantial prey to meet their energy needs. A bald eagle, for instance, has been observed eating a mouse, demonstrating this occasional consumption.
The Eagle’s Typical Diet
The typical diet of an eagle depends on its species and habitat. For example, Bald Eagles primarily consume fish, which can make up 70% to 90% of their diet, especially in areas near water bodies. They snatch fish from the water’s surface using their talons. Beyond fish, Bald Eagles also hunt waterfowl like ducks and geese, various small mammals such as rabbits and squirrels, and reptiles including turtles. They also scavenge on carrion, especially during winter when live prey is less abundant.
Golden Eagles, often found in open and mountainous terrain, have a diet mainly composed of mammals. Their preferred prey includes medium-sized animals like rabbits, hares, ground squirrels, and prairie dogs. They also occasionally eat smaller items such as mice and voles. Birds and reptiles also contribute to their varied diet.
Hunting and Opportunism
Eagles have keen vision, spotting prey from great distances while soaring. Their talons and hooked beaks are suited for grasping and tearing flesh, enabling them to subdue various animals. Hunting techniques vary. Golden Eagles often employ a “stoop,” a high-speed dive to capture ground prey. Bald Eagles frequently perch near water, scanning for fish, or may even steal catches from other birds, a behavior known as piracy.
Eagles are opportunistic feeders, adapting their diet based on what is most readily available and requires the least energy. This adaptability allows them to thrive even when preferred food sources are scarce. They consume carrion, especially during winter or when young and less proficient hunters. This flexible foraging strategy ensures their survival as efficient predators and scavengers within their ecosystems.