COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — The Bureau of Land Management says that there was a record number of bald eagles that visited Lake Coeur d’Alene on Dec. 20!
Each winter from November through February a migrating population of bald eagles visits the Lake Coeur d’ Alene area to feed on spawning kokanee salmon.
The BLM has begun counting the amount of bald eagles that return to the area year to year and on Dec. 20 there was a 409 eagles that soared by!
Based on counting from the BLM, there were 363 adults and 46 juvenile bald eagles on Lake Coeur d’Alene.
This is the highest number they’ve seen since they started keeping records in the last 50 years!
If you are wanting to see these majestic birds, some of the recommended viewing spots include Higgins Point, Mineral Ridge Boat Ramp and Mineral Ridge Trailhead.
But, now that birdwatchers are soaring over to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho State Police say there can be a danger when passersby come to see the nation’s bird fly.
Cpl. Tulleners from the Idaho State Police said they received several calls just this week about parking infractions on Highway 97, a popular bird-watching area.
Birdwatchers are beginning to congest the highway by parking on blind corners or in areas where it is hard for oncoming traffic to get around.
If you are heading to Coeur d’Alene to watch these eagles, be aware of parking and be courteous to others who are driving by.
Also, BLM has offered some safety and viewing tips:
Avoid disturbing the birds. Do not approach them on foot.Stay as far away from the birds as possible. Binoculars are essential.Stay in your vehicle if viewing nearby birds.Park off the main roadDo not stop on the road or look for eagles while driving. (Interstate 90 and Highway 97 are heavily traveled. Remember, it is illegal to stop in any traffic lane.)
For more information about Lake Coeur d’Alene Eagle Watch, go to the Bureau of Land Management website.
