What is a key characteristic of an immature golden eagle?

A key characteristic of an immature golden eagle is having a mottled brown body. Immature golden eagles do not yet exhibit the fully mature coloration patterns that are characteristic of adult golden eagles, which feature a distinct dark brown plumage with a golden nape. Instead, their feathers display a more varied and mottled appearance, which may include lighter and darker browns, giving them a less uniform look compared to adults.

While some may confuse the large size and long dark wings as defining traits, these attributes apply to golden eagles at any age, including both immature and adult birds. The other characteristics, such as a white head and tail, pertain to adult golden eagles rather than immatures, and the suggestion of a smaller size and shorter wings does not accurately represent the physical development of young eagles, as they are typically large and robust even during their immature stage.