The Sonoran Desert covers southwest Arizona, southeast California and the northern Mexican state of Sonora. It provides a home for six species of birds of prey, including the magnificent golden eagle.
The golden eagle is a very large dark brown eagle with an average wingspan of around 7 feet. Fledged young golden eagles show white patches on their wings and tail. The species can be seen year-round in the Sonoran Desert, where it feeds on birds, carrion and mammals such as rabbits.
The mountainous Sonoran Desert provides a perfect habitat for golden eagles, who hunt in open country and nest on cliffs. Females usually lay two eggs, and the larger chick is often known to kill its smaller sibling.
Birdwatchers searching the Sonoran Desert for golden eagles should remember the species is protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940. It is illegal to disturb a golden eagle sufficiently to injure the bird, force it to abandon its nest or interfere with its breeding, eating or sheltering habits.
