POSTFLEDGING DEPENDENCE PERIOD OF MIGRATORY GOLDEN EAGLES (AQUILA CHRYSAETOS) IN DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE, ALASKA

Abstract

The postfledging dependence period is not well documented for many species of raptors, including Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos). From 1997 to 1999, we used satellite telemetry to estimate the length of the postfledging dependence period, and the finite survival rate of fledglings during that period, for migratory Golden Eagles in Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Length of the postfledging dependence period averaged 50.1 days and ranged from 39 to 63 days. The post- fledging dependence period was longer for Golden Eagles that hatched earlier, but hatching date did not influence the date they departed their natal area. Average date of departure from the natal area was 25 September. The departure period spanned a 17-day period from 15 September to 5 October, and coincided with a series of environmental changes including decreases in day length, temperature, and prey diversity. Probability of survival during the postfledging dependence period was 0.98 (95% CI = 0.94 to 1.00). Período de Dependencia Posterior al Emplumamiento de Aquila chrysaetos en el Parque Nacional y Reserva Denali, Alaska