Skagit Bald Eagles

Skagit Bald Eagles

The Skagit River in Washington state stretches 150 miles from the Cascade Range in British Columbia to the Puget Sound. It’s a popular wintering ground for bald eagles in the early winter months. Eagles travel from their northern breeding grounds in central British Columbia, the northern Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Alaska.

At their population peak in January, up to 500 eagles can be found on the upper reaches of the river. The allure lies in the abundance of coho and chum salmon carcasses that line the river banks during the salmon spawn. The Skagit River is home to various salmon species, including chinook, coho, chum, pink, and sockeye salmon. Salmon spawning takes place between October and December, influenced by factors such as water temperature and rainfall. Opportunistic feeders, eagles rely heavily on salmon as part of their diet.

The number of wintering eagles directly correlates with the salmon population. Unfortunately, salmon populations in the Puget Sound have declined due to habitat loss, overfishing, pollution, and other factors. Some species, like chinook salmon, are listed under the Endangered Species Act. While the Skagit River's salmon numbers have fluctuated, efforts are underway to protect and restore their habitat through initiatives like habitat restoration, hatchery programs, and fishing regulations.