Close-up of a golden eagle, soaring on his powerful wings, trying to land. The Golden Eagle is one of the largest and fastest raptors in North America, distinguished by its brown plumage, golden feathers on its head and neck, and with a powerful beak and talons. Its main prey are small mammals but sometimes attacks large mammals or is fighting with coyotes and bears in defense of its prey. The Golden Eagle is the national bird of Mexico.