Bald eagles descend on John Martin Reservoir in Colorado

Photo byRichard LeeonUnsplash

(Colorado) Colorado is a winter destination for many, including America's bird, the majestic bald eagle.

John Martin Reservoir, located along the Arkansas River, is a winter eagle roosting site, and the eagles have landed.

The remote reservoir has abundant fish and tall trees, making it an ideal seasonal home for large birds of prey.

The number of eagles varies every year depending on several factors, including weather and water level. This variability adds an element of anticipation to the annual midwinter eagle survey, and on Friday, January 12th, volunteers counted 78 bald and golden eagles in the area.

Bald eagles are typically at John Martin Reservoir from November through mid-March, and dawn & dusk are the best times to spot the impressive creatures. They roost in the trees along the reservoir and Lake Hasty.

The magnificent eagles should be admired from a distance to avoid disturbing their roosting sites. Binoculars or spotting scopes enable visitors to observe the birds without being intrusive.