Golden Eagle surfing the Thermals

JFG — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 02:15:51 GMT

Golden Eagle R5 Mark II & RF200-800mm F6.3-9 IS USM Handheld

Took this shot while hiking at Sierra Vista. I went there specifically looking for Golden Eagles as it is very high up with many canyons that have plenty of up and down-drafts. I saw a few eagles but they were higher and farther riding the thermals. Every once in a while one would dive for a ground squirrel and catch me of guard. It was a good hike and I learned their flying patterns, and found a few great spots where they can come very close to you, as close as 25 feet. I can really take good shots from these spots. Next time I'll be set up and ready for them. My goal is to shoot one as it dives down for its dinner and hopefully get one as it snatches the ground squirrel. Golden Eagles can fly faster than 150 mph.

Some believe that Golden Eagles (Aquila Chrysaetos) and Brown Eagles are the same, they are not. "Brown Eagles" are not a species, the term "Brown Eagle" can refer to various species of eagles, typically the young Bald Eagles which are brown. Golden Eagles have distinct features like a golden brown nape with full feather legs that run down to their toes.

What do you call a sick eagle ?

Illeagle 😁🥸s

What do you call an eagle out at sea?

A seagull ! 😁🥸

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Golden Eagle surfing the Thermals