Latin Name

Aquila chrysaetos

History at CuriOdyssey

Ishta was hit by a car. She sustained internal injuries, a fractured beak, and severe trauma to her right eye. Although she recovered from most of her injuries, she is still blind in her right eye. She was transferred to us in 2000 and placed in the raptor aviary.

Fun Facts about Golden Eagles

The halux talon of a Golden Eagle is as long as a grizzly bear’s claw – approximately 3 inches long.

Birth Date

Female age is unknown. She was found as an adult in December of 1999.

What do Eagles eat?

Primarily small mammals such as rabbits and hares as well as larger rodents like rats. About 20% of their diet is made up of birds and reptiles. Occasionally they will eat carrion. At CuriOdyssey, they are served rats, chicks, quail, and rabbit.

How long do eagles live?

In the Wild: 20 to 30 years, but it is estimated that only 10% of wild-born eagles survive past five years.
In Human Care: Unknown – the oldest known lived 46 years.

Where do eagles live?

These eagles inhabit mountainous areas, canyons, shrublands, and grasslands. During the winter they are found in shrub-steppe vegetation, wetlands, river systems, and estuaries. They are found in Eurasia, North Africa, and North America.

Are Golden Eagles endangered?

No special status. The Golden Eagle is federally protected under the Bald Eagle Protection Act of 1962. Previous to this act, some 20,000 Golden Eagles were killed because they were thought to prey on sheep and goats. Many Golden Eagles have been electrocuted by power lines, caught in traps set for other animals, and poisoned by ranchers.