Golden eagle

Utah named the golden eagle its state bird of prey in 2022, according to the Division of Wildlife Resources. The state bird is still the California gull; the eagle is a separate designation. DWR says golden eagles range across western North America, that populations in the north typically migrate south, and that most Utah birds stay year-round. They are most common in mountain regions and are a relatively common sight in the state.

Food is mostly small mammals, especially rabbits, marmots and ground squirrels, though the birds also eat insects, snakes, other birds and carcasses. DWR says they seek food in the early morning and evening, sometimes hunt in pairs, and can fast for days. They pair for life and often reuse nests on cliffs or in large trees, with eggs usually laid from late February to early March in Utah.

A designation recognizes a species; it does not tell you where to find one or what protection it has. A dark eagle at distance is easy to misname, and a young bald eagle can look much the same, so compare more than one feature. Watch from established overlooks and stay away from nesting cliffs.

Large dark eagle with golden feathers on the back of the head and neck; compare carefully with young bald eagles.

Utah's state bird of prey since 2022; a state designation that says nothing about legal protection.

Watch from established overlooks and keep away from nesting cliffs.