Rare Footage Show Up-Close Glimpse of Endangered Golden Eagles in Maine

Golden Eagles have had endangered status in the state of Maine since 1986, and remain a species of greatest conservation need in the Maine Wildlife Action Plan. That's why this footage of two Golden Eagles shared by wildlife photographer Allie Ladd is so beautiful.

Check out how stunning these raptors are.

The video description says, "Allie Ladd captured this striking footage of some very vocal golden eagles in western Maine. The first he's seen this year, the raptors are hungry and won't hesitate to beat up a crow, raven or other bird that tries to take its food."

According to Bangor Daily News, "Golden eagle sightings are much less frequent in Maine than those of bald eagles. Golden eagle nesting pairs haven’t been tracked here since 1997, according to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife."

Related: In Heartbreaking News, the Big Bear Eagle Eggs Probably Won't Hatch

WMTV explains that Golden eagles are a species of concern throughout their eastern range due to the small population, vulnerability to human-related threats, and considerable gaps in knowledge about habitat use and movement. The article also explains that Maine serves as a migratory corridor and hosts goldens that reside in the state in the summer and winter.

It's such amazing and hopeful news that these raptors have been spotted in new locations for the first time in years. Here's hoping that it means they are becoming less endangered.

Golden eagles are one of the biggest raptors in the world. They can weigh between six to thirteen pounds and have a wingspan of six to almost eight feet! Another fun fact? Females are larger than males.

Golden eagles hunt small to medium-sized mammals, birds, and occasionally reptiles. They use their powerful talons to catch and kill prey swiftly, often targeting animals like rabbits, hares, and squirrels. They have also been known to attack bears or coyotes.

The Differences Between Bald Eagles and Golden Eagles

The Maine Department of Fish and Wildlife has ways that you can tell bald eagles apart from golden eagles. It states that :

Golden eagles and bald eagles are about the same size. They are approximately 2.5 feet tall with a wingspan of about 6.5 feet, and weigh about ten pounds on average. Golden eagles have feathers all the way down to their feet but bald eagles do not.

As far as feathers go, "Adult golden eagles have amber highlights on their head and neck. Adult bald eagles have a sharply contrasted white head and tail."

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