Uploaded April 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
The majestic Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), named for the shining feathers on the back of its head and neck, inspires awe in people around the world. Reflecting the reverence many have for this raptor, the Golden Eagle is the national symbol for five countries: Albania, Germany, Austria, Mexico, and Kazakhstan.
An important distinction between this species and the similarly-sized Bald Eagle is the Golden Eagle’s smaller head and bill, especially noticeable in flight. These two raptors are not closely related; the Golden Eagle is a “booted” eagle (meaning its legs are feathered) belonging to the Aquila genus, whereas the Bald Eagle is a “fish” eagle, a member of the Haliaeetus, or sea-eagle, genus.
Also known as: Royal Eagle, Águila Real (Spanish)
Learn more about the Golden Eagle at abcbirds.org/bird/golden-eagle.
The majestic Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), named for the shining feathers on the back of its head and neck, inspires awe in people around the world. Reflecting the reverence many have for this raptor, the Golden Eagle is the national symbol for five countries: Albania, Germany, Austria, Mexico, and Kazakhstan.
An important distinction between this species and the similarly-sized Bald Eagle is the Golden Eagle’s smaller head and bill, especially noticeable in flight. These two raptors are not closely related; the Golden Eagle is a “booted” eagle (meaning its legs are feathered) belonging to the Aquila genus, whereas the Bald Eagle is a “fish” eagle, a member of the Haliaeetus, or sea-eagle, genus.
Also known as: Royal Eagle, Águila Real (Spanish)
Learn more about the Golden Eagle at abcbirds.org/bird/golden-eagle.
