Meet Golden Eagles Sierra and Pinyon

Welcome back, Sierra and Pinyon! These two majestic golden eagles were off exhibit for a period of time, due to construction on the zoo’s sewer line, but are happy to be back home where they can spread their wings and enjoy seeing all their friends. 

Sierra is a female golden eagle who came to the sanctuary after being rescued by Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care where she was found “down.” She can fly, but chooses not to for some reason, and is able to use her large size to get her way. Her male counterpart, Pinyon, was found starving on Latrobe Road by a construction crew. He suffered from an arthritic left wing from an old injury and has been at the zoo since 2011. 

Many birds of prey or raptors (golden eagles, hawks, and owls) are protected by federal law, due to them being threatened or endangered. Only people with permits can legally possess them, and their feathers or eggs; though Native Americans with permits can use their feathers for ceremonial purposes. 

For more information about the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary, visit folsomzoofriends.org.