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Bald eagles migrate each year and from November through February they visit us here in the Coeur d’Alene area. That’s due to the spawning kokanee and salmon in the lake that they feast on. These majestic creates are a marvel to watch and eagle watching is a great winter activity to do with your family.
Reasons To Eagle Watch
There are a million reasons to watch these marvelous birds as they hunt, nest and soar around the area. But here are just a few:
- Perfect Family Activity – People of every age enjoy watching these bald eagles. It’s a relaxing yearly activity you can do with your family and you are guaranteed to make forever memories.
- Educational Opportunity – You can learn so much about these birds just by watching them. And you can do some research before heading out and teach your children about why they’re here, what they feed on and their importance to North Idaho
- Great Outside Time – During these winter months we tend to spend too much time inside, especially during this time of COVID. Eagle watching is a great opportunity to get outside to enjoy the fresh air and there’s plenty of room for social distancing.
Places to Eagle Watch
If you’d like to head out and find a place to spend to watch the eagles outside, there are 3 great places to go:
Higgins Point Address: N Idaho Centennial Trail, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
Mineral Ridge Boat Ramp Address: 7608-7322, ID-97, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
Mineral Ridge Trailhead Address: 9200 ID-97, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
Lake Coeur d’Alene also offers 2 hour cruises with cruise boats that are heated so you can stay warm.
Lake Coeur d’Alene Eagle Watching Cruises – Check out the details by clicking here.
Eagle Watching Etiquette
Eagles are wild animals, so a human presence can stress the birds. Here are a few tips when eagle watching:
- If watching from the roadside viewing location, stay in or near your vehicle.
- Avoid loud noises
- Use binoculars or spotting scope rather than trying to get closer
- Don’t do something to try to make the eagles fly
Since eagle watching will occur mostly in the winter time and if you plan to view the eagles from outside, keep the following in mind:
- Pull completely off the road
- Park in designated parking areas
- Be prepared for snow, ice & mud
- Dress for the extreme cold, including any possible wind chill
- Bring hot drinks and snacks
Safely and politely enjoy watching our friendly visitors over the next few months, before they’re gone!!
Credit: Bureau of Land Management, Delaware Highlands Conservancy, CDA Resort
