Education Resources
Learn about Nevada's magnificent Golden Eagles, our local raptor species, and how you can help protect wildlife in our community.
Golden Eagle Facts
Discover the incredible capabilities and characteristics of North America's most powerful raptor.
6-7 ft
Impressive Size
Average wingspan, making them one of North America's largest raptors
200 mph
Flight Speed
Maximum diving speed during hunting, rivaling the Peregrine Falcon
30+ years
Lifespan
Average lifespan in the wild with proper habitat conditions
60 sq mi
Territory Size
Typical hunting territory for a mated pair
Physical Features
- Dark brown plumage with golden feathers on the back of the neck
- Powerful hooked beak designed for tearing prey
- Feathered legs down to the toes (a key identifier)
- Excellent eyesight - can spot prey from over a mile away
Behavior & Diet
- Primarily hunt rabbits, hares, ground squirrels, and marmots
- Mate for life and return to the same nest year after year
- Nests can weigh up to 1,000 pounds after years of additions
- Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties
Habitat
- Found in open and semi-open habitats across Nevada
- Prefer mountainous areas with cliffs for nesting
- Need large territories with abundant prey populations
- Nevada's Great Basin provides ideal eagle habitat
Nevada Raptor Species
Nevada is home to many raptor species. Learn to identify the birds of prey that share our skies.
Golden Eagle
Aquila chrysaetos
Nevada's most iconic raptor, facing a 70% mortality rate due to lead poisoning and other threats.
Protected - Population DecliningBald Eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Once endangered, bald eagles have made a remarkable comeback and are now regularly seen in Nevada.
Protected - RecoveringRed-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensis
Nevada's most common hawk, easily identified by its distinctive rust-colored tail.
CommonGreat Horned Owl
Bubo virginianus
Nevada's largest owl, known for its distinctive ear tufts and powerful hunting abilities.
CommonFerruginous Hawk
Buteo regalis
The largest hawk in North America, specialized for hunting in open grasslands.
Species of ConcernPrairie Falcon
Falco mexicanus
A fast-flying falcon adapted to Nevada's desert environments, preys on ground squirrels.
ProtectedConservation Threats
Understanding the threats Golden Eagles face is the first step toward protecting them.
Lead Poisoning
70%The leading cause of Golden Eagle mortality in Nevada. Eagles ingest lead fragments when feeding on animals shot with lead ammunition.
What You Can Do:
Switch to non-toxic ammunition and support legislation requiring non-lead alternatives in eagle habitats.
Vehicle Collisions
15%Eagles are hit by vehicles while feeding on roadside carrion or during low-altitude hunting flights near roads.
What You Can Do:
Remove roadkill promptly and drive cautiously in areas with posted eagle crossing signs.
Electrocution
10%Power lines and utility poles pose deadly risks, especially for young eagles with larger wingspans.
What You Can Do:
Support utility company initiatives to retrofit power poles with wildlife-safe designs.
Habitat Loss
5%Development and land use changes reduce available hunting territory and nesting sites.
What You Can Do:
Support conservation easements and protected wilderness areas in eagle habitats.
How to Help Wildlife
Found an injured or orphaned animal? Follow these steps to help without causing additional harm.
Observe, Don't Interfere
If you see wildlife, maintain a safe distance. Many animals that appear orphaned or injured are actually fine and being watched by parents nearby.
Assess the Situation
Look for signs of actual distress: visible injuries, blood, inability to fly, being attacked, or a dead parent nearby. A young bird on the ground isn't always in trouble.
Contact Professionals
Never try to care for wildlife yourself. Call Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) at (775) 688-1331 or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
Keep Wildlife Safe
If instructed to contain the animal, use a ventilated cardboard box with a towel. Keep it in a quiet, dark, warm place away from pets and children until help arrives.
Wildlife Emergency?
Contact Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) for injured wildlife assistance.
Call (775) 688-1331School Programs
Bring wildlife conservation into your classroom. We offer engaging educational programs for students of all ages.
Classroom Presentations
Interactive presentations about Golden Eagles, raptor biology, and conservation. Includes Q&A sessions and educational materials.
Field Trips
Visit our education center to learn about raptor rehabilitation, see educational birds up close, and discover Nevada's wildlife heritage.
Science Fair Support
Mentorship and resources for students pursuing wildlife-related science fair projects. Data access and expert guidance available.
Interested in bringing a program to your school?
Request a ProgramDownloadable Resources
Free educational materials for teachers, students, and anyone interested in learning about and protecting raptors.
Golden Eagle Fact Sheet
A comprehensive one-page overview of Golden Eagle biology, behavior, and conservation status.
Nevada Raptor ID Guide
Learn to identify the raptors of Nevada with photos, size comparisons, and habitat information.
Lead-Free Hunting Guide
Information about non-toxic ammunition alternatives and their benefits for wildlife.
Wildlife First Aid Guide
What to do if you find injured wildlife - step by step instructions and emergency contacts.
Classroom Activity Pack
Lesson plans, worksheets, and activities for teaching students about raptors and conservation.
Eagle Coloring Pages
Fun coloring pages featuring Golden Eagles and other Nevada raptors for younger students.
Resources are currently being developed. Check back soon for downloads!
Help Us Protect Nevada's Eagles
Education is the first step toward conservation. Support our mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and educate about Golden Eagles.