Many iconic animal sounds in films and television are not produced by the animals depicted. This is particularly true for the powerful cry commonly associated with eagles, a sound synonymous with majesty. The reality reveals a surprising truth.
The Iconic Call’s True Origin
The sound attributed to eagles in media, a dramatic and high-pitched scream, actually belongs to the Red-tailed Hawk. This raptor’s distinctive call is a hoarse, raspy scream, often transcribed as “kree-eee-ar” or “tsee-eeee-arr.” It lasts two to three seconds, typically descending in pitch, and some describe it as similar to a steam whistle. Red-tailed Hawks use this piercing vocalization for territorial defense, communicating with mates, and as a warning signal. This sound is loud and carries effectively over long distances.
The Real Voices of Eagles
In contrast to the Red-tailed Hawk’s powerful scream, the actual vocalizations of large eagle species, such as the Bald Eagle and the Golden Eagle, are less dramatic. Bald Eagles, the national bird of the United States, produce surprisingly weak sounds, consisting of high-pitched whistles, chirps, or piping notes. Their calls can sound like “chitters” or “squeals,” sometimes compared to a snickering laugh or a seagull’s cry.
Golden Eagles also have high, weak, and whistled calls. They might produce thin whistles that carry over distances, or occasional sharp screeches for territorial warnings or mate communication. These natural eagle sounds differ significantly from the intense scream used in media.
Why the Misconception Persists
The misattribution of the Red-tailed Hawk’s call to eagles stems from its widespread use in film and television. Early sound designers in Hollywood sought a distinctive and memorable sound for predatory birds. The Red-tailed Hawk’s powerful and dramatic scream was deemed more fitting for conveying the perceived majesty and ferocity of an eagle than the actual, less imposing eagle calls. This choice created an auditory stereotype that became deeply entrenched in public perception.
Stock sound effects, including the Red-tailed Hawk’s call, were readily available and inexpensive to use, contributing to their pervasive application across various productions. Audiences grew accustomed to hearing this specific sound whenever an eagle appeared on screen, reinforcing the misconception. The dramatic impact of the hawk’s scream continues to make it a preferred choice for sound editors looking to enhance the visual presence of eagles in media.