What Kind of Eagle Is the National Bird of Mexico?

The golden eagle is Mexico's national bird and is one of the biggest raptors in all of North America. It can achieve a wingspan of 7.5 feet and weigh as much as 15 pounds.

Significance

The Mexican flag depicts a golden eagle standing on a cactus holding a serpent in its beak and one of its claws.

Features

The golden eagle possesses a sharp and hooked bill, a long tail and broad wings. It has a dark brown color with a golden sheen in the head region that gives it its name.

Diet

The typical golden eagle subsists on a diet of small mammals such as rabbits, squirrels, snakes, fish and other birds. It has attacked animals as large as deer, making ranchers fearful that their livestock was in danger.

Fun Fact

The golden eagle builds a nest of large twigs and sticks on the edge of a high cliff or in a tall tree. A pair of breeding eagles often will reuse the same nest year after year.

Time Frame

The golden eagles in Mexico are typically year-round residents, but those that live in northern climates such as Canada may spend the winter in Mexico.

References

• All About Birds Website
• National Geographic Website
• Mexican Flag