Status, biology, and conservation priorities for North America's eastern Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) population

Eastern North America's Golden Eagle population, estimated at 1,000–2,500 individuals, has shown long-term declines but recent short-term increases post-DDT ban. This enigmatic and poorly understood population faces unique threats like incidental trap mortality and lead poisoning, unlike western populations threatened by wind turbines. The study, led by the Eastern Golden Eagle Working Group (EGEWG), identifies critical knowledge gaps in their ecology, migration routes, and habitat use, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation efforts to ensure long-term sustainability. Key findings include diverse breeding habitats ranging from tundra interfaces to disturbed wetlands, and complex migratory pathways with 'leapfrog' migration patterns. The research highlights the urgency of addressing demographic vulnerabilities and specific regional threats to protect this flagship species.

(Ed.). (2012). Status, biology, and conservation priorities for North America’s eastern Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) population. The Auk, 129(1), 168–176. https://doi.org/10.1525/auk.2011.11078