In southeast Calgary’s Carburn Park, local naturalist Brian Keating quickly spotted two bald eagles near the river. Keating mentioned that this specific pair has been nesting in Calgary for many years, making it almost certain to see an eagle when visiting the park.
The presence of bald eagles in Calgary is common due to the favorable habitat provided by the Bow River, allowing them to reside in the city throughout the year. Across the province, the sighting of these iconic birds is becoming more frequent as their habitat expands and populations increase, thanks to conservation initiatives.
Bald eagles can be found in various locations in Alberta, from the Bow River to the grasslands. Colin Weir, the managing director at the Alberta Birds of Prey Foundation in Coaldale, noted a significant rise in bald eagle sightings along Prairie rivers in the last decade, indicating their expanding presence in the region.
The bald eagle population in Alberta consists of both resident birds, like those seen in Calgary during winter, and migratory birds that nest in places such as Banff but migrate to warmer areas during the winter months. Southern Alberta’s rivers provide an ideal habitat for these birds, offering abundant food sources like fish and migratory ducks.
Furthermore, bald eagles have been observed in unexpected locations, such as agricultural areas far from major bodies of water. They are known to scavenge on dead livestock found on farms and feedlots.
Keating highlighted the results of the recent local Christmas Bird Count, revealing a significant increase in the number of bald eagles spotted in and around Calgary compared to previous decades.
The resurgence of bald eagles is considered a conservation success story, with data from NatureCounts indicating a population recovery across North America. Conservation efforts, including the ban on harmful pesticides like DDT and legal protections for the species, have contributed to the remarkable revival of bald eagle populations.
Despite their population growth, bald eagles in Canada face ongoing threats, including poaching, habitat loss, and environmental contamination. Lead poisoning, in particular, poses a serious risk to these birds, with exposure to lead ammunition and fishing lures being significant concerns for their well-being.
