COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho — November marks the beginning of a season that wildlife photographers likely dream about all year. Bald eagles are returning to Lake Coeur d’Alene as they gather to feed on Kokanee Salmon.
Members of the North Idaho Life page on Facebook have already snapped some shots of the majestic birds at Higgens Point.
Last year, wildlife biologists with the Idaho Bureau of Land Management spotted the most eagles during a weekly count on Dec 14, with a total of 367. That number included 323 adults and 64 juvenile eagles.
On Nov. 15, 2018, Idaho BLM had already spotted 47 adult eagles and eight juveniles, for a total of 55. Eagle numbers typically peak around Christmas.
Eagles soar over Lake Coeur d'Alene
The BLM began counting eagles around Wolf Lodge Bay in 1974. The number of eagles returning to the area varies each year.
The eagles migrate to Lake Coeur d’Alene between November and February in search of the spawning Kokanee Salmon. As the fish reach the end of their life cycle, they become the perfect feast for the birds.
Popular places to view the eagles are Higgens Point, Mineral Ridge Boat Ramp, Mineral Ridge Trailhea and Wolf Lodge Bay.
The BLM also offered safety and viewing tips for your eagle watching excursion:
- 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 in viewing nearby birds.
- Park off the main road.
- Do not stop on the road or look for eagles while driving