Think Out Loud

Researchers study golden eagles in Oregon

By Elizabeth Castillo (OPB)
March 28, 2025 4:45 p.m.

Broadcast: Friday, March 28

FILE-In this undated file photo, a golden eagle rests on top of the canyon at the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, near Boise, Idaho.

FILE-In this undated file photo, a golden eagle rests on top of the canyon at the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, near Boise, Idaho.

Troy Maben / AP

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In Wallowa County, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has led collaborative research on golden eagles. The pilot project aims to study the survival, movement and reproductive success of the birds. ODFW worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Nature Conservancy to capture data.

The golden eagle uses a variety of habitats and seeks rocky cliffs or large trees. It can dive at a speed of 120 miles per hour and preys on animals including squirrels and foxes. Humans are largely responsible for their decline. The birds collide with wind turbines, face habitat loss and are killed illegally.

Holly Tuers Lance is the acting district wildlife biologist for the ODFW field office based in Enterprise. She joins us with more about the raptors and the work being done locally.

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