Quick Overview
 Abundant Wildlife
A dramatic event unfolds each year as spawning salmon return to
the rivers followed by hundreds of hungry bald eagles. As salmon reach the end of their life cycle, their rotting carcasses are left behind as food for the
eagles and as rich nutrients that benefit the many inhabitants of the river
and riparian forest lining the banks.
 It’s common to see forest-dwelling black-tailed deer browse for nettles,
huckleberries, and other plants and shrubs. While visiting the upper
reaches of the river system you may be fortunate enough to see black
bear feeding on salmon along the sand bars or a beaver gathering sticks
and mud for his home. Great blue herons live alongside ravens, crows,
owls and osprey. Freshwater marshes are a haven for whistling and
trumpeter swans.
 Did You Know?
- Bald eagles measure 31-37 inches in height with a wingspan of 6 feet or more.
- Eagles weigh between 9 and 14 pounds. Females are one-third larger than males.
- Eagles can see six to eight times better than humans.
- Adults have dark brown bodies, and a white head and tail, with bright yellow beaks and feet. Juveniles are brown or blotchy brown all over.
- Bald eagles may live up to 30 years in the wild. They mate for life and they may use the same nest for several years, raising one or more chicks.
- An eagle's diet consists mainly of meat. They hunt, steal and scavenge for their food, conserving energy while dining on whatever food is available.
SKAGIT RIVER BALD EAGLE NATURAL AREA
Click on map for larger view.
The 8,000-acre Skagit River Bald Eagle Natural Area is dedicated to habitat protection, conservation and educational efforts. This special area
is an example of the Forest Service working with the Washington
Department of Fish & Wildlife, The Nature Conservancy and other
partners to conserve natural resources along the river system.
Bald eagles are seen primarily from late December through early
February. During this period the Eagle Watchers Program, sponsored by
the Forest Service and North Cascades Institute, provides hosts at
designated sites along the river system to assist with viewing these
magnificent birds. You can also learn more at the annual Upper Skagit
Bald Eagle Festival in early February.
 Taking A Look Around
It is recommended that visitors use designated Eagle Watching sites, which offer safe, accessible opportunities for viewing these magnificent birds.
- Eagles can normally be seen feeding on the river gravel bars during
the morning hours, usually between 5 AM and 11 AM. Launching
is recommended after 11 AM from December 26-February 26th.
- Most of the river frontage is privately owned. Use public areas along the river and be courteous to local land owners. Do not beach on the shore or walk across private property.
- To see eagles up close, use a spotting scope, binoculars or telephoto lens. You are more likely to see wildlife if you have time to wait. Be patient and enjoy your outing.
- Try to keep noise low and movements slow. Eagles tend to spook where there is too much activity. Your car can be a great viewing blind!
- For your safety, park your car in pullouts well off the highway, and please use caution when crossing roadways.
- Never walk in the river or stream or conduct other activity that could disturb spawning salmon or their redds.
- Help keep this area clean for all to enjoy. Please do not litter.
|
