Winter is the best time to spot bald eagles in and near the Quad Cities.
Thousands of eagles begin arriving in Iowa in September, and the highest concentration of eagles in the central U.S. is along the Mississippi River according to experts from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
The eagles spend winter along the open water, especially at locks and dams and power plants where water doesn’t completely freeze over so they can hunt for fish.
“Bald eagles generally roost together in large mature trees surrounded by a buffer of smaller trees,” according to the DNR website, “Roosts are chosen by the eagles to provide protection from the weather and avoid disturbances.”
During daytime hours, eagles usually roost within 60 yards of the water’s edge. More than 70% of their feeding happens in the early-morning hours.
The DNR recommends avoiding disturbing eagles by staying at least 400 yards away from a perched eagle.
“If possible, stay in your vehicle, use a blind, or stand behind stationary objects when viewing eagles,” the DNR post said.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources plans and coordinates several eagle-watching events across the state, including locations in Clinton, Dubuque, Muscatine, and in the Quad Cities.
