What speed can a Golden Eagle reach when diving during a hunt?
Golden eagles can dive at speeds up to 200 mph, matching the pace of a Formula 1 race car.
To hunt, golden eagles perform a high-speed dive called a stoop. They tuck their wings close to their bodies to minimize air resistance and reach extreme speeds. Bony ridges above their eyes act as sun visors and wind deflectors, protecting their vision during the descent. While they cruise at only 30 mph, their diving strike is as powerful as a high-velocity projectile.
Nerd Mode
The golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is one of the fastest animals on Earth, second only to the peregrine falcon in diving speed. During a hunting maneuver known as a stoop, these birds can reach velocities between 150 and 200 mph. This incredible speed is achieved through specialized aerodynamics, where the eagle pulls its wings tight against its torso to create a teardrop shape that minimizes drag.To survive these high-speed descents, the golden eagle has evolved unique physiological traits. Bony protrusions above the eyes, called supraorbital ridges, protect the eyes from wind pressure and glare while helping the bird focus on prey from great distances. Their respiratory system is also highly efficient, featuring a series of air sacs that ensure a constant flow of oxygen even under the intense physical stress of a 200 mph dive.Research published by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology notes that golden eagles can spot a rabbit from over a mile away. When they strike, the force of their impact is enhanced by their massive talons, which can exert a crushing pressure of up to 400 pounds per square inch. This combination of speed and power allows them to hunt large prey, including foxes, young deer, and mountain goats.
Verified Fact
FP-0001326 · Feb 13, 2026