In some parts, a decline of golden eagle populations has been recorded. But in other areas they are common and populations are presumably stable. Many golden eagles have been electrocuted in power lines, caught in steel traps set for coyotes and other animals, and poisoned by ranchers. Direct and indirect human-caused mortality, disturbance and elimination of prey by habitat alteration are the main factors limiting golden eagle populations. Recreational activites may also disturb breeding, migration and wintering activities.
Golden eagles are likely to abandon nests during incubation if they are disturbed.
E. The Audubon Illustrated Handbook of American Birds. McGraw-Hill Book Company, New York, 1968. The Audubon Society Encyclopedia of North American Birds. Alfred A. Knoph, New York, 1980. Reference written by Alicia Ivory, University of Michigan undergraduate.