Introduction
Bald eagles and golden eagles, two of the most iconic birds in the world, have been the subject of much debate as to which is the superior avian. Both birds are known for their impressive size and impressive wingspan that allows them set to soar over the skies. As majestic symbols of strength and power, there is no clear answer to which species reigns above the other. There are however, many differences between the two birds that makes them stand out from one another. To decide which species is the true king of the sky, let us take a look at a few aspects of the bald eagles and golden eagles, including their size, habitat, diet and behavior.
Size Comparison
When it comes to size, comparing these two species of birds can be quite tricky. The bald eagle has an average wingspan of 2.5 – 2.7 meters and is generally larger than the golden eagle. On the other hand, the golden eagle has an average wingspan of 1.8 – 2.3 meters. Both birds are famously large and both weigh as much as 4 – 7 kilograms and have a body length of up to 66 centimeters.
Habitat
When it comes to habitat, the bald eagle and golden eagle are different in many aspects. The bald eagle is found along bodies of water and on the coasts, in lakes and rivers. They also inhabit wooded areas. The golden eagle on the other hand, likes to live in open fields and prefers hunting from high cliffs or rocky outcroppings. They can also be found in the mountain ranges of North America, Europe, and Asia.
Diet
Both the bald eagle and golden eagle share a similar diet. While they both hunt live prey, the type of prey they prefer is quite different. The bald eagle enjoys a variety of food sources, including fish, smaller birds, and even carrion. The golden eagle is more of a hunter, preferring to hunt large mammals such as rabbits, foxes, and even young deer and goats.
Behavior
The bald eagle and golden eagle also have different behaviors. The bald eagle is less aggressive than the golden eagle and prefers to scavenge for food whenever possible. They also use a variety of vocalizations to communicate with other members of their species. The golden eagle on the other hand, is quite aggressive and makes its presence known with a distinct call or two. They also have an impressive reputation as a predator and use their sharp talons to snatch up prey from the ground or from their nests.
Conclusion
The debate of whether the bald eagle or the golden eagle is the true king of the sky is an ongoing one. Both birds are magnificent and powerful hunters with impressive size and speed. Ultimately, it is up to the observer to decide which bird they believe is the true king of the sky. Regardless of which bird you choose, however, one thing is for certain, they’ll both be a beautiful addition to any sky they fly through.