The eagles have landed

COEUR d'ALENE — On Nov. 8, the Bureau of Land Management recorded two adult bald eagles in its first count of the season.

On Nov. 16, the count climbed to 28 adults and one juvenile.

On Wednesday, the count soared to 110, a combination of 91 adults and 19 juveniles. More will continue to arrive as photographers flock to Higgens Point to capture images of the majestic birds.

Each winter from November through February migrating bald eagles visit the Lake Coeur d' Alene area to feed on spawning kokanee salmon. 

The eagles arrive from Canada and even Alaska. They often put on spectacular shows as they swoop down to snag a fish from the surface of Lake Coeur d'Alene.

The eagle count generally reaches its peak in late November to early December. 

The BLM began counting bald eagles around Wolf Lodge Bay in 1974. It reported a high of 383 eagles on Dec. 20, 2017. On Nov. 29, 2018, the count reached 343, while on Dec. 2, 2019, the count totaled 259 eagles.

With the current cool temperatures and a forecast for sunshine and blue skies through Sunday, conditions are ideal for taking pictures and photographers can outnumber the birds.

BLM Eagle-watching tips

• Suggested viewing areas: Higgens Point, Mineral Ridge Boat Ramp, Mineral Ridge Trailhead

• To avoid disturbing the birds, use binoculars or spotting scopes so you may view details without the need to be close. Vehicles disturb eagles less than walking people do, so parking safely off the road and viewing with binoculars is a good method. Watch the bird's body language. If you're too close, it will appear uneasy.

• Feeding activity begins upon arrival at the lake and continues throughout the early morning. Feeding slows at midday, then resumes late afternoon before the flight back to the roost.

   A bald eagle in action at Higgens Point.

   A bald eagle surveys its surroundings at Higgens Point.

   A bald eagle looks around at Higgens Point.