Eagles Back Home

(Almont  December 26, 2016) After spending the summer in the Flathead River Basin in Montana one might consider wintering in Mexico. It would be the perfect combo. However if you’re a bald or golden eagle the East River may look even better.

“It’s got the kind…you know the kind of fish that makes their beaks stiff,” said Ruthie Roosterson, a spokesman, and little else, over at the Fish and Game Department. “They like the trees and the sunshine, the cold temperatures and the DOW too.”

The proud birds migrate south to Gunnison County in about November, stick around until early spring, then head north again. Although a complicated process the eagles seem to have it down, especially after centuries of repetition.

“It’s something to do with instinct and monogamy,” says Roosterson. “The eagles make life look effortless. There are plenty of folks who could take a lesson here.”
Eagles are generally monogamous, and, with the exception of New Year’s Eve, keep the same mate for life. Many residents here gain a certain security by witnessing their punctual return each fall.

If you wish to observe the birds of prey, take note: They can see you far better than you can see them. Getting out of your vehicle and progressing toward the river bottom only causes them to fly away. Urban viewers: There are no signs or flashing lights to identify the eagle’s domicile. So you are on your own on this one and may have to invest a few minutes searching the tall trees for the birds.

EAGLE OFFICE HOURS: Office hours are currently from 9 am to 2 pm Monday through Friday through the holidays. Extended hours are expected during heavy turkey season. Lame ducks prohibited. PLEASE DO NOT PHOTOGRAPH EAGLES ON THE WEEKEND. It confuses the salmon and causes a negative effect on the entire eco-system as far away as Southern California.

– Small Mouth Bess