Which raptor is the national bird of Austria?

The golden eagle is the national bird of Austria.

Austria recognizes the golden eagle as its national bird, reflecting the species’ long association with the Alpine landscape and European heraldry. Golden eagles are powerful mountain raptors with dark brown plumage and golden-brown feathers on the crown and nape, which give the species its common name.

They are found across much of the Northern Hemisphere and occupy a wide range of habitats, including mountains, tundra, deserts and open country. In the Alps, they often nest on cliffs and hunt mammals such as marmots, as well as birds and reptiles. Their broad wings allow them to soar efficiently over steep terrain.

The golden eagle should not be confused with the closely related eastern imperial eagle, which is also associated with European history and symbolism. National symbols can use stylized eagle images, so heraldic illustrations do not always show a biologically precise portrait.