The Conowingo Dam on the Susquehanna River in Maryland is a popular spot for viewing bald eagles. The best times to see eagles at Conowingo Dam depends on several factors.
Why Do Eagles Gather at Conowingo Dam?
Eagles are attracted to Conowingo Dam because of the abundance of fish. The dam holds back water, creating a reservoir that provides habitat for fish species like gizzard shad, alewife herring, and white perch. Eagles prey on these fish, so large numbers of eagles congregate below and around the dam to feed.
In addition, the Lower Susquehanna River below the dam provides important habitat for spawning fish like American shad and river herring. Eagles take advantage of this seasonal food source as the fish move upriver to spawn in spring.
Best Times of Day
The early morning hours just after sunrise tend to be the best time to view bald eagles at Conowingo Dam. Here are some key reasons why:
- Eagles are most active in the morning as they leave their roosts to search for food. Their energy levels are highest at this time of day after resting overnight.
- Thermals – columns of rising warm air – begin developing after sunrise. Eagles will ride these updrafts to gain altitude and survey the area for fish.
- The lighting is ideal in the morning sun. Eagles are illuminated against the backdrop of the dam and river.
- There is less recreational activity in the morning compared to midday, so the eagles are less likely to be disturbed.
The hours around sunset, as eagles return to their roosting areas, can also be productive times to spot eagles at Conowingo. Their activity picks up again as they return from foraging.
Seasonal Patterns
The number of bald eagles at Conowingo Dam fluctuates throughout the year. The dam sees the highest concentration of eagles during the late fall and early winter. Key reasons include:
- Migrating eagles from northern areas join the resident eagles at Conowingo in winter.
- Ice limits food availability further north, so eagles migrate south to areas like Conowingo where open water allows for fishing.
- Spawning fish provide abundant food in late fall through early spring.
The number of eagles declines in summer as some migratory birds return north. However, Conowingo remains a productive summer location too. Immature eagles stay year-round until they are old enough to breed.
Best Vantage Points
There are several excellent spots from which to observe bald eagles at Conowingo Dam:
- Conowingo Dam Visitor Center – Views of the dam face and parts of the reservoir. Close sightings of eagles fishing and soaring.
- Fisherman’s Park – Below the dam on the Harford County side. Close views of eagles on the rocks by the river’s edge.
- Deer Creek Vista – Above the dam on the Cecil County side. Spot eagles fishing the reservoir and perched in trees.
- Octoraro Creek Access – Just below the dam on the Lancaster County side. Great for seeing eagles swoop in to grab fish.
- Conowingo Creek – This creek flows into the Susquehanna below the dam, attracting spawning fish.
- Rock Run Grist Mill – Offers a unique top-down view of the dam and eagle activity.
Tips for Eagle Viewing
Here are some top tips for spotting bald eagles at Conowingo Dam:
- Use binoculars or a spotting scope for best viewing.
- Look for white heads and tails to spot eagles at a distance.
- Scan the tops of trees along the reservoir as perching spots.
- Listen for distinctive eagle shrieks.
- Chat with photographers and other viewers for eagle sighting tips.
- Dress warmly in layers as you may be standing a while!
- Bring cash for the visitor center and food vendors.
- Aim for weekdays if possible to avoid weekend crowds.
Bald Eagle Viewing Ethics
When viewing eagles at Conowingo Dam, follow these ethical practices to ensure the birds are not disturbed:
- Keep a respectful distance and use binoculars or long camera lenses for close views.
- Speak softly and avoid making loud noises.
- Do not approach eagles if they are feeding or interacting.
- Stay back from active nest sites during breeding season.
- Follow instructions from local rangers and guides.
- Do not impede the eagles’ normal activities and movements.
Conclusion
In summary, the prime viewing hours for bald eagles at Conowingo Dam are early morning and late afternoon in the winter months. The abundant fish and open water attract eagles from across the region to converge here. With great vantage points and responsible viewing practices, Conowingo offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe these majestic raptors.