Bald Eagles

The bald eagle, our national symbol, is found only in North America. In South Dakota, many bald eagles spend their winters below the Missouri River dams where they are able to catch fish and prey on waterfowl attracted to the open water. Two hundred to three hundred bald eagles winter in South Dakota. Thirty active nests were found in South Dakota in 2004.

One of the best places to observe bald eagles in Southeastern South Dakota is near Gavings Point Dam, on the Missouri River, west of Yankton. Drive across the dam to a parking area on the north sisde of the spillway. This is a good place to see bald eagles flying up and down the river during winter months

They typically perch within 50 feet of the riverbank in tall cottonwood trees. The birds usually feed in the morning and rest in their roosting trees in the afternoon.

Bald eagles will abandon their roosts if disturbed by humans. For this reason, the Department of Game, Fish and Parks prohibits motorized traffic in state recreation areas with winter bald eagle roosts. Chief White Crane Recreation Area, near Gavins Point Dam, is closed to vehicular travel Nov. 1 - March 31. Walkers and cross-country skiers are allowed in these areas but must refrain from disturbing roosting bald eagles.

Bald eagles are protected by state law as endangered species and by a variety of federal laws. Please do your part to help protect this majestic national symbol.

Bald Eagle Facts

Both males and females are brown and black until they are about 5 years old. At that time, the feathers on their heads turn white, hence the name "bald" eagle.

Females are larger than males. Wingspans can measure 8’ for females and 7’ for males.

Eagles can fly 30 miles an hour, gliding quietly to catch prey.

Using the talons on their feet, eagles catch fish, which is their main food. Other food items include waterfowl, mammals, and carrion (remains of dead animals).

Eagles lose and replace their feathers every year.

Bald eagles can begin nesting in South Dakota as early as February.

Bald eagles usually mate for life, often returning to the same nest each year to lay their 1-3 eggs. Both parents take turns incubating eggs continuously for about 35 days.

Eaglets remain in their nests for approximately 75 days before flying.

Typically, only one eaglet in the nest survives and only about 10% of those live longer than one year.

Bald eagles may live to be 30 years old or more in the wild.

If people come too close, the eagle makes a guttural barking sound. Please leave the area if you hear this sound.