The golden eagle is a formidable raptor, recognized for its agility, speed, strong feet, and sharp talons. A common question arises regarding their predatory habits: do golden eagles hunt coyotes?
Golden Eagles and Coyote Predation
Golden eagles do occasionally prey on coyotes, though it is not a primary food source. They typically target younger, inexperienced coyote pups or injured and sickly adults, as these present a less challenging target. This selective targeting allows the eagle to conserve energy.
These raptors are physically equipped for such encounters. With a wingspan up to 7.5 feet and weighing 7 to 14 pounds, golden eagles are among North America’s largest birds of prey. Their talons are notably strong, capable of exerting pressure up to 500 pounds per square inch, crucial for subduing larger animals.
Golden eagles may strike a coyote with a swift aerial assault, aiming for the neck or spine to incapacitate it. While such events occur, their main diet largely comprises smaller and medium-sized mammals, such as rabbits, hares, and ground squirrels. Mammals make up approximately 84% of their diet in western North America, highlighting the infrequent nature of coyote predation.
Hunting Strategies and Prey Selection
Golden eagles are skilled hunters, utilizing keen eyesight and impressive flight capabilities to locate prey. Their vision is 4 to 8 times sharper than humans, allowing them to spot small movements from miles away. This enables them to identify targets even in vast, open landscapes. Once prey is sighted, the eagle engages in a rapid, steep dive known as a stoop, which can reach speeds of up to 124 miles per hour. This descent allows them to strike with considerable force, often delivering a fatal blow upon impact.
Their powerful talons are adapted for grasping and subduing prey, with a grip strength capable of crushing bones. The eagle can adjust its talon configuration mid-dive based on prey size. While their hunting success rate averages around 20%, their precision and power make each successful hunt impactful.
For larger animals, the eagle may not kill instantly but uses its talons to secure the prey, sometimes beginning to feed while the animal is still alive. Golden eagles typically hunt alone, but pairs may cooperate to pursue prey, with one eagle distracting the target while the other swoops in.
Their usual prey includes rabbits, hares, and ground squirrels, forming the largest portion of their diet. They also consume medium-sized birds, and occasionally reptiles, fish, and young ungulates. The versatility in their diet reflects their adaptability as predators, taking advantage of locally abundant species.
Factors Influencing Predation
Several factors influence the likelihood of a golden eagle preying on a coyote. The availability of common prey, such as rabbits, hares, and ground squirrels, plays a significant role. When these populations are abundant, eagles are less likely to pursue challenging prey like coyotes. During periods of prey scarcity, particularly in winter and early spring, eagles may turn to alternative food sources, including coyotes.
The age and health of the coyote also determine its vulnerability. Young, inexperienced coyote pups or sick and injured adults are easier targets than healthy, alert adult coyotes. Environmental conditions also contribute to predation events; deep snow can hinder a coyote’s movement, making it more susceptible to an aerial attack. Open terrain favors eagles, providing clear lines of sight and ample space for their powerful dives. This opportunistic behavior underscores the adaptability of golden eagles.