The Other Eagle

Tt's the second banana of avian theater. The golden eagle is more successful genetically than its illustrious bald brother. It's about as big, and more likely to kill its own dinner instead of stooping to partake of carrion. But lacking the luck to be designated our national emblem, the golden never has had as much publicity.

If you see an eagle in the desert Southwest, though, chances are it will be a golden. Both eagles are found here, but the golden comes closer to being common. The country favors it. Golden eagles are partial to jackrabbits, while bald eagles need fish or waterfowl, and the Great Basin provides more rabbits. ...