Battle Cry
The most popular legend about the battle cry dates back to the first time Auburn met Georgia on the football field in 1892 and centers on a spectator who was a Civil War veteran. In the stands with him that day was an eagle the old soldier had found on a battlefield during the war. He had kept it as a pet for almost 30 years.
According to witnesses, the eagle suddenly broke free and began majestically circling the playing field. As the eagle soared, Auburn began a steady march toward the Georgia end zone for a thrilling victory. Elated at their team's play and taking the bird's presence as an omen of success, Auburn students and fans began to yell “War Eagle” to spur on their team. At the game's end, the eagle took a sudden dive, crashed into the ground, and died.
But the War Eagle battle cry lived on to become a symbol of the proud Auburn spirit. Whenever Auburn people gather, the battle cry “Warrrrrrr Eagle!” is almost certain to be heard. It has been a part of Auburn's spirit for more than 100 years.
Our Eagles
Since the first War Eagle, there have been seven others throughout Auburn's history that have served as a symbol of the Auburn spirit and kept alive the legendary battle cry.
The Auburn University Raptor Center is currently responsible for daily care of Auburn’s War Eagle. Eagles at the Auburn University Raptor Center belong to the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and are allowed to stay at Auburn University for educational reasons.The Raptor Center has 20 other permanent residents and approximately 300 raptors are admitted to the hospital annually.
Funding for the eagles comes entirely from Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, educational outreach fees, and private donations.
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Golden Eagles are capable of reaching speeds over 120mph, although in Jordan-Hare Stadium they only reach around 40mph.
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Golden Eagles are federally protected by both the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. This act prohibits the take, possession, sale, purchase, barter, offer to sell, purchase or barter, transport, export or import, of any bald or golden eagle, alive or dead, including any part, nest, or egg, unless allowed by permit.
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The average lifespan of a Golden Eagle is around 30 years.
Auburn University Raptor Center
The Auburn University Raptor Center, a division of the College of Veterinary Medicine, is a rehabilitation and education facility providing critical education, rehabilitation and conservation efforts for raptors. Care for War Eagle relies on the generosity and support of individuals, corporations and foundation. For more information, please contact the College of Veterinary Medicine’s development staff at giving@vetmed.auburn.edu or call 334/844-1446.
