Got the go-ahead to redesign the terrible "bird" companion entry into something that would actually be at least a little useful. Was thinking I'd try to blend elements of the roc companion with the base eagle stats. Something like:
Eagle: small; +4 natural armor; Spd 10 ft., fly 80 ft. (average); 2 talons (1d4), bite (1d4); Str 10, Dex 17, Con 13, Int 2, Wis 15, Cha 7; Special Qualities low-light vision.
7th-Level Advancement: Str +2, Dex +2, Con +2, +1 natural armor, pounce
--what do you think? More defensive and maneuverable than the roc or a large cat or the other popular companions, but also significantly less potent on the offensive.
I feel like it's still not very good by comparison, but I'd rather that than swing too far the other way.