Bald eagles are majestic birds of prey that are found throughout North America. In Utah, bald eagles can be found year-round, but they are more numerous during the winter months when birds from farther north migrate to the state. Bald eagles build nests and raise their young near lakes, reservoirs, and rivers where they can find ample food. Some of the best places to spot bald eagles in Utah include the following:
Northern Utah
Northern Utah provides excellent bald eagle habitat thanks to its many large freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Some prime bald eagle viewing spots include:
- Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge – This large wetland area near the Great Salt Lake is home to one of the largest wintering populations of bald eagles in the state. Hundreds of eagles congregate here from November through March.
- Willard Bay State Park – Bald eagles nest and winter along the shores of Willard Bay Reservoir. The cottonwood trees provide ideal nesting spots.
- Ogden Bay Waterfowl Management Area – Located on the eastern shore of the Great Salt Lake, this wetland area hosts nesting bald eagle pairs and large numbers of wintering eagles.
Northeastern Utah
The mountains and valleys of northeastern Utah also provide good bald eagle habitat. Some of the best viewing areas include:
- Steinaker State Park – Several breeding pairs nest around Steinaker Reservoir near Vernal. The park provides great shoreline access for spotting eagles.
- Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area – Bald eagles flock to Flaming Gorge Reservoir on the Utah-Wyoming border during winter. Look for them perched in trees or soaring over the water.
- Red Fleet State Park – This reservoir near Vernal attracts bald eagles year-round. Winter is the best time to spot large numbers of eagles.
Central Utah
The bald eagle population has flourished in central Utah in recent decades. Some prime viewing spots include:
- Strawberry Reservoir – Nesting eagles and wintering populations are found at this high-elevation reservoir southeast of Provo.
- Jordanelle State Park – Bald eagles can often be seen fishing along the Rock Cliff Nature Trail. Several pairs nest around the reservoir.
- Deer Creek Reservoir – This reservoir near Heber City hosts up to 20 wintering bald eagles each year.
Southern Utah
The mild winters of southern Utah draw in many migrating bald eagles. Look for them along these lakes and reservoirs:
- Quail Creek State Park – A growing number of bald eagles nest and winter along this reservoir near St. George.
- Sand Hollow State Park – Bald eagles frequent this popular state park near Hurricane and have been spotted catching fish near the boat launch area.
- Lake Powell – Bald eagles patrol the shores and waters of Lake Powell during winter, often perching on boats and docks to fish.
Best Times to See Bald Eagles
While bald eagles live in Utah year-round, the best viewing opportunities occur during the winter months from November through March. During winter, migrating eagles from Alaska, Canada, and other northern regions flock to Utah to take advantage of the milder climate and open waters.
Month | Viewing Opportunities |
---|---|
November | Migrating bald eagles begin arriving in Utah. |
December | Eagle populations peak as more migrants arrive for the winter. |
January/February | The best months to see the highest numbers of bald eagles throughout Utah. |
March | Eagle viewing remains strong, but some birds start migrating back north. |
The highest bald eagle populations occur from December through February. During the coldest winter months, eagles congregate near open waters where they can still find fish, waterfowl and other prey. Reservoirs, lakes, rivers and wetland areas in northern, central and southern Utah will have peak numbers of bald eagles throughout the winter.
Where to Look for Bald Eagles
When searching for bald eagles in Utah, keep an eye out for these telltale signs:
- Large, bulky nests high up in trees near water – Bald eagles often use the same nests year after year. Look for nests up to 8 feet wide.
- Mature trees for perching – Eagles prefer tall cottonwoods, pine trees and other prominent perches with wide views for spotting food.
- Waters with adequate food sources – Eagles usually stay near open waters with lots of fish, waterfowl or other prey. Rivers, lakes, reservoirs and wetlands that don’t freeze over are best.
- Remote areas away from human disturbance – Bald eagles are sensitive to human presence, so favor undisturbed habitats.
Productive viewing locations will provide ample prey for the eagles in a setting with minimal human activity. Refer to the hotspot list above for some of the best places to spot bald eagles in Utah.
ID Tips
When you spot a large bird of prey in Utah, check for these characteristic bald eagle identification features:
- Dark brown body and wings
- Bright white head and tail
- Yellow beak
- Massive wingspan up to 7 feet
- Perches upright or soars flat with straight wings
Juvenile bald eagles have mottled brown and white markings until they reach maturity at 4-5 years old. If you spot any large bird of prey near water, always check carefully for bald eagle characteristics.
Best Practices for Viewing
When looking for bald eagles, please follow these best practices to respect the birds and their habitat:
- Watch from a distance with binoculars or spotting scopes – don’t approach nests or perched eagles.
- Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that can disturb the birds.
- Never feed or engage with the eagles.
- Give nesting areas a wide berth and obey all area closures.
- Take care not to trample shoreline vegetation when looking for perched eagles.
Responsible eagle watching ensures healthy populations of these magnificent birds in Utah for future generations to enjoy.
Conclusion
Whether you are a Utah resident or visitor, keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles at lakes, rivers and wetland areas, especially during winter. Responsible viewing and conservation measures will help protect these iconic raptors. With abundant prey and habitat, Utah provides essential shelter for thriving bald eagle populations.