My idea of posting weekly was exciting, but unrealistic for the busy schedule that apple harvest and farmer's markets bring. Oh well!
Over the last week, we have gotten to spend quite a bit of time with family. We rested and took a much needed break from some of the work that we've been doing. We made the difficult decision today to take an additional day off to rest at home, after being away from our property for ten long days.
We came home, made some coffee, started watching the first episode of Yellowstone, and then happened to see something incredible in our front yard - a golden eagle.
Golden Eagles
If you are anything like me, you had never seen or even heard about this majestic bird. Nonetheless, Paul instantly recognized it, and my opportunity to research something new began. Below is some interesting information I learned about this glorious raptor.
Golden Eagles are protected
According to the Arizona Game and Fish Department, congress passed an Act to protect bald eagles in 1940. However, some changes were made to this act in 1962 to include protection for golden eagles. In 2007, the details for this protection was altered to include any disturbance to the eagles.
Golden Eagles in Arizona
In 2010, statewide Arizona surveying of golden eagles began. Unfortunately, prior to this date, there was very little information on the population of golden eagles. The Arizona Golden Eagle Nest Survey for the year 2020 explains that 326 known golden eagles are currently living in Arizona. Excitingly for me, many of the golden eagle sightings are nearby our property!
Spotting a Golden Eagle
According to an article on Golden Eagle Identification, golden eagles are large, dark brown birds that have long wings with beautiful feathers that are slightly lighter in color than the rest of their bodies. In contrast to their dark brown color, their necks and back of their heads are light gold. They are one of the biggest birds on the North American continent, and they are a beautiful sight to see.
I am overwhelmingly thankful that I get to be surrounded by nature. Seeing my first golden eagle was a wonderful experience that I will cherish.
If you have not yet witnessed the flight of one of these incredible creatures, I hope that you will someday soon!
Sources:
Arizona Game and Fish Department: Golden Eagle Management https://www.azgfd.com/wildlife/speciesofgreatestconservneed/raptor-management/golden-eagle-management/
Arizona Golden Eagle Nest Survey 2020 by Kyle M. McCarty, Jennifer K. Presler, and Kenneth V. Jacobson
Golden Eagle Identification
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