In the East they traverse the ridges of the Appalachians to the southern highlands from September through November. Breeding golden eagles prefer to maintain their nesting-hunting territories or travel the shortest distance necessary to survive prolonged cold or heat, while older prebreeders may be less tied to specific locations. Birds of the youngest cohort are often migratory. The golden eagle inhabits open country from barren areas to open coniferous forests. They are primarily in hilly and mountainous regions, but also in rugged deserts, on the plains, and in tundra.
Golden eagles are most likely to use trees for nesting if cliff sites are unavailable.
In Campbell and Converse counties golden eagles preferred to nest in large pines when both cottonwoods and pines were available. Large dense stands of both cottonwoods and pines were avoided as nest areas. Foraging habitat - The golden eagle generally forages in open habitats where rabbits and small rodents are available. Winter habitat - Winter habitat requirements for the golden eagle are very similar to nesting habitat requirements. Golden eagles are most efficient predators in open areas where winds and thermal updrafts aid flying.