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Golden Eagle in Virginia

Golden Eagle in Virginia

Aquila chrysaetos

Golden Eagle in Virginia — Quick Overview

There are 1,971 recorded sightings of Golden Eagle in Virginia, with 44 observations documented in the past 12 months. Local sightings are most frequently reported in November through February.

When to See Golden Eagle in Virginia

Most often reported in November through February.

Monthly sightings distribution for Golden Eagle in Virginia
MonthRecorded SightingsPeak Month
January265Yes
February338Yes
March163No
April22No
May15No
June5No
July0No
August0No
September77No
October322No
November578Yes
December178Yes

Compared With Other Regions

Explore how Golden Eagle sightings in Virginia compare to other North American hubs:

Dark brown, with a golden wash on the nape and head, broad wings and a long tail, this powerful eagle is the most widely distributed eagle of the Northern Hemisphere. It lives in mountains, open country and cliffs, hunting hares, marmots, grouse and carrion. It soars with its wings held in a slight V. Look for it over high ridges, especially on winter days when updrafts carry it higher.

Other Wildlife to Look for in Virginia

Live Field Tracking

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to see a Golden Eagle in Virginia?

Golden Eagle is most often reported in Virginia in November through February, based on GBIF records. Reports partly reflect when more people are outdoors, so sightings in other months are possible.

Where can I see a Golden Eagle in Virginia?

There are 1,971 documented Golden Eagle records in Virginia. Parks, refuges and protected areas with suitable habitat are the best places to start; the charts above show when it's reported most.

How can I find Golden Eagle sightings near me in Virginia?

Use the WildMap app on iOS to see recent reports within 100 km from the past 7 days for free (WildMap Pro: 200 km and 30 days), and turn on alerts for sightings near you in Virginia.