Amicus is a Golden Eagle (Aquila Chrysaetos). He came to WSU in 2006 from the North Eastern Washington region. He is about 3 or 4 years old and is just coming into his white tail feathers. Amicus is diagnosed to be completely blind due to either traumatic injury or disease. He also suffers minor Neurological damage. As a result of both he will stay in captivity the rest of his life. 

Golden Eagles are birds of open country, not forests, from desert grasslands to above timberline. They build large stick nests in trees or cliff walls where they have plenty of room to maneuver.

Adult Golden Eagles are nearly alike except the female is larger than the male. Their plumage is dark brown overall, with some white at the base of the tail and golden-to-blond feathers on the back of the head (the nape). Bill and talons are black; cere (soft membrane that covers the nostrils) and feet are yellow. Immature birds have a broad, white tail band with a black edge, and large white patches on the undersides of the wings at the base of the primary feathers. Sometimes a white line extends from this large patch toward the body. In their second year, this white patch becomes smaller. Adults weigh 9 to12.5 pounds.

Golden Eagles use their tremendous eyesight to locate prey. They prefer to attack upwind, to increase their aerodynamic control and maneuverability. The birds prey upon a variety of creatures from prairie dogs, cottontail rabbits and ground squirrels to grouse, ducks, reptiles and smaller birds. The birds will also feed on carrion, which sometimes results in death from vehicle collisions or poisoning.

Golden Eagles defend large breeding area home ranges. Though their territories may be larger, they can not defend the entire area continuously. Often, when an intruder enters an eagle's home range, the bird will fly in a "roller coaster" flight, by soaring upward to a point, then tucking its wings to descend. This pattern can be repeated in a series; the undulating flight is truly inspiring to watch.
Though nesting territories may be occupied yearly, there are generally several nest sites in the area that are used on different years. These nests may be over 0.5 miles apart. Alternate nests range from 1 to 11 per territory.

Nests are constructed of large twigs or roots and can be lined with moss, bark, fur or other soft material. The nest may become huge, as much as 8 to 10 feet across and 3 to 4 feet deep.