Eagles often evoke an image of solitary majesty. They are frequently observed soaring alone across vast skies or perched atop a towering tree, surveying their domain. While this perception of independence holds true for much of their lives, there are specific circumstances where eagles do gather, revealing a more complex social dynamic than their solitary reputation suggests.
Naming Groups of Eagles
The most widely recognized term for a gathering of eagles is a “convocation.” This collective noun implies a formal assembly, which aligns with how these birds come together for specific purposes. The word “convocation” itself originates from Latin, meaning “a calling together” or “assembly.”
While “convocation” is the primary and most commonly used term, other less frequent or archaic collective nouns also exist. A group of eagles in flight might be referred to as a “soar,” reflecting their aerial behavior of rising on air currents. Additionally, “aerie” can describe a small family group of eagles around a nest, as an aerie is an eagle’s nest, often built high. Terms like “spread” or even “flock” are sometimes used, though they are less specific and less commonly applied to eagles.
How Eagles Group in Nature
Eagles are largely solitary birds outside of their breeding season. However, they do form groups, known as convocations, often driven by the availability of resources. These gatherings occur for several reasons, primarily related to food access, shelter, and sometimes migration.
One common instance of eagles gathering is at abundant food sources, such as salmon runs or around carrion. While many eagles may be present in these feeding areas, they are generally not cooperating in their hunting efforts but rather tolerating each other’s presence. Such gatherings are particularly common during winter months when food resources become scarcer and more concentrated.
Eagles also congregate at communal roosting sites, especially during the colder seasons. These roosts are usually located in large trees that offer shelter from harsh weather conditions, and they are typically near reliable food sources. Roosting together provides warmth and protection from potential threats. These communal roosts are often used year after year and are thought to serve a social function. During migration, eagles may not fly in tight formations but often converge at shared resting points or along common migratory routes, leading to temporary large groups.