Although it wasn’t until 2024 that the bald eagle was declared the national animal, it has long been a symbol for those of us who inhabit this land. Present in 48 states and visible almost year-round, these majestic creatures captivate birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. As you head out, as always, remember to respect their space, leave no trace, and care for the environment so future generations can enjoy these magnificent birds. That being said, let’s explore the best places to spot them.
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Are bald eagles endangered?
Bald eagles are no longer considered endangered in California. Their population has been steadily growing, with breeding pairs now occupying territories in 41 of the state’s 58 counties. Reintroduction programs have supported this growth, and the winter population has remained stable, sometimes exceeding 1,000 birds.
While their numbers continue to rise, the future for bald eagles in California and the nation looks bright, with increasing opportunities for people to spot them, especially during winter months.
What is the best time of the year to see bald eagles?
The best time to see bald eagles is during the winter months, from November to March, when they migrate to warmer areas with abundant food sources, making them easier to spot. As temperatures drop, they tend to gather near open water, where fish are plentiful, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
What are the best places to see bald eagles in SoCal?
Throughout California, there are several places where bald eagles can be found, but according to various local reports and the experiences of locals we were able to gather online, the locations with the highest chances of spotting them are:
- Big Bear Lake Area: Big Bear Lake is a hotspot for bald eagle sightings, with a well-known nesting pair (Jackie & Shadow) that can often be observed via live webcams and during guided tours.
- Santa Ana River (Riverdale Park, Anaheim): Local birders recommend Riverdale Park along Tustin Ave in Anaheim, where utility poles near the park offer great vantage points to spot resident bald eagles.
- Lake Casitas: In Ventura County, bald eagles nest in large eucalyptus trees, and the area offers organized eagle-watch tours during winter months. These locations offer a mix of natural settings and organized viewing opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. Enjoy exploring these sites while respecting the habitat and local guidelines.
- Lake Henshaw, San Diego: Known as a favored winter site for bald eagles, Lake Henshaw offers frequent sightings and scenic overlooks.
For more details, you can access a detailed map with all the nests recorded up until 2016 by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
What to do if you see or encounter a bald eagle?
If you encounter a bald eagle, it’s essential to maintain a respectful distance. The recommended distance is at least a quarter of a mile to avoid disturbing the bird, as eagles are sensitive to human interference.
Close proximity can stress them out and cause them to abandon their nests. Additionally, drone activity near eagles, especially around their nesting sites, can also be harmful. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service warns that following flying eagles with drones is illegal and can disrupt their natural behavior, potentially leading to nest abandonment.
To further minimize your impact, avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle the eagle. Never take eagle feathers, bones, or any other parts of the bird, as this is illegal and disrespectful.
Be sure to pick up after yourself and leave no trace in the environment. If you spot an injured or sick bald eagle, it’s important to report it to local wildlife authorities or rescue organizations so that the bird can receive proper care and attention.
Bald eagles live stream
If you can’t make it to the locations we mentioned, you can still see these animals up close without leaving your home, thanks to live streams available online. The main one is the live stream from Big Bear Lake, a dream destination for lovers of cold weather and snow sports. There’s also a live cam of a 22-year-old bald eagle nest on the NCTC Campus in West Virginia.
Additionally, here are other links that might interest you: