The
golden eagle (
Aquila chrysaetos) is one of the best-known
birds of prey in the
Northern Hemisphere. It is the most widely distributed species of
eagle. Like all eagles, it belongs to the family
Accipitridae. These birds are dark brown, with lighter golden-brown plumage on their napes. Immature eagles of this species typically have white on the tail and often have white markings on the wings. Golden eagles use their agility and speed combined with powerful feet and massive, sharp talons to snatch up a variety of prey (mainly
hares,
rabbits,
marmots and other
ground squirrels).