The Bald Eagle has fascinated humans for millennia with its size, strength and soaring flight. Once controversial in Alaska for feeding on salmon where commercial fishing is strong, these eagles remain profound cultural symbols of leadership and resilience in Native cultures. Ecologically, they fill a vital niche as scavengers and competitors—feeding on carrion while also vying with raptors like the Peregrine Falcon for live prey.
In this field-based class in the Skagit Valley, we will observe Bald Eagles and other raptors in their wintering habitat. The Skagit region supports one of the largest winter aggregations of Bald Eagles in the lower 48 states—hundreds of individuals can be seen when salmon spawn and die in the river and its tributaries. We’ll explore how they use nest sites, where they gather, and how they interact with their environment and each other.
Expect a slow-paced walk-through terrain that may be muddy, cold and windy—typical of prime raptor-viewing season in this region. Please wear sturdy waterproof footwear, dress warmly, bring rain gear, lunch, snacks and a warm drink. Two spotting scopes will be provided for excellent views of the birds; binoculars are welcome but not required.
Location:
Please navigate using Google Maps. The approximate street address is 12296 Samish Island Rd, Bow, WA 98232.
Carpooling: Parking at the Samish Unit (West 90) is limited, so please plan to carpool. We will meet at the Kingsgate Park & Ride (north end), 13001 116th Way NE, Kirkland, WA 98034, and carpool from there. A Discover Pass is required for parking.
Cost
Members: $60
Non-members: $80
About The Instructor
Kevin O’Malley grew up exploring Lake Erie’s lands and waters, which inspired his decision to pursue a degree in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Toledo. He became a Naturalist-in-Residence for Juneau schools, and he expanded his skills through the Wilderness Awareness School ‘s (WAS) nine-month Immersion Program and Kamana Four Certification. Kevin has worked as a freelance naturalist, served as In-School Programs Specialist at Seward Park Audubon and taught in the WAS Adult Tracking Intensive Program. A Cybertracker Level 3 Wildlife Tracker, he coordinates the Ellensburg Tracking Club and leads South Sound Nature School, teaching birding field classes statewide and serving as Education Chair of Juneau Audubon for three years.
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