Golden Eagle vs Raven

While driving up a canyon road into National Forest land a few days ago, where I was going to be doing a Flammulated Owl survey that night, I spotted an adult Golden Eagle flying along the cliffs walls to my right. I quickly jumped out of the car to start taking photos, meanwhile a group of Common Ravens had also spotted the eagle and were hot on its trail. The following series of photos shows one of the more daring ravens going after the Golden Eagle.

The Golden Eagle flying along the canyon walls. (Photo by Alex Lamoreaux)

The Golden Eagle noticing the raven. (Photo by Alex Lamoreaux)

The ravens first swipe at the Golden's back. (Photo by Alex Lamoreaux)

The Golden Eagle turning towards the cliff and searching for a safe place to land, away from the ravens. (Photo by Alex Lamoreaux)

Just as the eagle was about to land behind some sage, another raven dives at his back. (Photo by Alex Lamoreaux)

The eagle decides to just keep flying, farther and farther away, but keeping an eye over its shoulder for another raven attack. This allowed me a great look at the eagle's beautiful golden nape. (Photo by Alex Lamoreaux)