The Golden Eagle in Gotland
The plumages for the Golden Eagle, breeding and life in Gotland. An introduction to the great raptors.
The golden eagle, one of Sweden’s most impressive birds of prey, has long been a symbol of Gotland’s rich birdlife. This majestic bird undergoes both physical and behavioral changes throughout its lifetime. In Gotland, the golden eagle has become the subject of intensive research and conservation efforts. Here, we take a closer look at their plumage, breeding, diet, and the factors influencing their population.
Globally, the golden eagle is found across large parts of Europe, Asia, North Africa, and North America. However, nowhere does it nest as densely as on Gotland.
If you want a close encounter with white-tailed and golden eagles — join an eagle safari! Read more about eagle safaris here!
The golden eagle in Gotland - increasing population
Gotland currently has over 80 established golden eagle territories. The population is one of the densest in the world. However, 85% of all territories in Sweden are found in the north of the country. On Gotland, the territories are evenly distributed across the island. The eagles’ nests can be located very close to human settlements. Since 2010, the number of territories has increased from around 60 to over 80, a clear sign that the population is stable and strong.
Golden Eagle Plumage and Molting – What is Unique About Gotland?
The golden eagle undergoes a noticeable transformation in its appearance during the first 5–6 years of its life. The young golden eagle has a very dark brown plumage with white patches on the wings and a distinct white inner part of the tail. Over the years, the plumage gradually lightens, which is a characteristic feature of this bird of prey. It sheds a few wing feathers each year, and over time, the distinct white feathers on the tail and wings are gradually replaced by darker ones. Females are generally darker than males, which often retain lighter feathers, primarily in the tail but also in the wings.
What is the favourite food for the golden eagle?
The golden eagle is a generalist when it comes to food. It hunts small mammals, but many medium-sized and large birds are also part of its diet. Its food choices vary depending on availability, making the golden eagle a highly adaptable bird of prey. On Gotland, wild rabbits—locally called “rabbis”—are a common prey and a favorite on the golden eagle’s menu. Unfortunately, the eagles also eat some hedgehogs. Younger eagles, in particular, consume a significant amount of carrion, as they have not yet mastered hunting.
This is how the golden eagle builds its nest!
The golden eagle builds its nest, a large stick nest, in pine trees or sometimes in other trees such as birch, oak, and aspen. The nest is often placed in a sturdy forked branch, slightly below the tree canopy. Another bird of prey, the goshawk, builds similar nests—though not as large. The first layer consists of larger branches, which are then supplemented with smaller branches and twigs. The nest is rebuilt each year and can grow very large, sometimes becoming visible from a great distance. There are reports of nests weighing over 1 ton (though not on Gotland).
The Golden Eagle’s Breeding – From Mating to Juvenile Bird
On Gotland, adult golden eagles remain in their territories year-round. Juvenile eagles roam around the island during their first years but likely do not leave Gotland. Most pairs do not breed every year but typically every other year. The breeding season begins in late winter, with increased social activity and territorial displays through aerial courtship. The nest is continuously improved throughout the year, and some eagle pairs use multiple nests in different years.
Eggs are laid in April, and incubation lasts about 45 days. The chicks become ready to fly approximately 50 days after hatching, usually in mid-July. Typically, 1–2 eggs are laid, and one chick often survives the critical first weeks.
The golden eagle can be very old.
Golden eagles in the wild can live up to 25–30 years. The oldest known golden eagle on Gotland is nearly 24 years old, and several others have reached an age of 15–20 years.
Research on Gotland, conducted by SLU in Umeå, focuses on understanding the golden eagle’s genetics, diet, territorial landscape use, and whether they leave Gotland. One particularly interesting question is how Gotland’s golden eagles are genetically related to other populations of this bird of prey in Sweden.
Threats and Challenges for Golden Eagles in Gotland
Although the golden eagle population on Gotland is stable, they face several threats. Human activities, such as power distribution networks, forestry, and wind farms, negatively impact their habitats. A common cause of death for young golden eagles is perching on power poles or transformers and suffering an electric shock. Disturbances like orienteering or rally competitions can also negatively affect their breeding if held during the sensitive nesting period.
What Should You Do If You Find a Dead or Injured Golden Eagle?
If you find a dead or injured golden eagle on Gotland, it is important to contact the police. Since the golden eagle is state-owned wildlife, the police are responsible for handling the bird. If there is suspicion of a crime, the eagle is sent to the Swedish Museum of Natural History or the National Veterinary Institute (SVA) for further examination.
The County Administrative Board’s Mission to Protect the Golden Eagle
The County Administrative Board of Gotland is responsible for surveying the golden eagle population annually and protecting these birds of prey from disturbances and exploitation. Through information and collaboration, the goal is to preserve and secure the golden eagle population for the future.
Golden- or White-tailed eagle? How to separate them!
From a distance, it can be difficult to determine whether you’re looking at a golden eagle or a white-tailed eagle. If you want to learn properly, join a bird of prey course on Gotland! Young and adult eagles look different. Here are the best identification features:
- Pattern on tail. Completely white tail = adult white-tailed eagle. White innerpart of tail and blackish terminal band = golden eagle.
- Pattern on wings: Generally speckled pattern = white-tailed. White fields centrally in wings = young golden eagle..
- Wing position. Horisontally wing position = white-tailed. Shallow “V”-position = golden eagle.
Characteristics of the White-Tailed Eagle
- short tail (completely white at adult bird).
- hovers with horisontal wing position.
- broad, even-broad wings.
Characteristics of the Golden Eagle
- medium length of tail – compare with the broadness of the wing.
- soaring with wings in a shallow “V”.
- young eagle has remarkable white patches on the wings and on the innerpart of the tail.
Conclusion – The Golden Eagle as a Symbol of Gotland’s Birdlife
The golden eagle is an icon of Gotland’s unique birdlife and an important testament to how birds of prey thrive in Sweden’s landscapes. By understanding and protecting this impressive raptor, we can ensure that future generations will also have the chance to witness the majestic golden eagle soaring over Gotland’s skies.
Are you interested in more information on the Golden Eagle?
Here is som more information:
- Join an eagle safari in Gotland.
- Read more. Here is a list of interesting references:
The close encounter with the golden eagle circling above us by the roadside was an incredible experience that gave us chills!
The guides were professional and welcoming, providing clear information, and the entire tour was pleasant and well-organized.
Bonus🙂
Faludden was teeming with great egrets and grey herons—I’ve never seen so many before, truly impressive!
