If only bald eagles were as plentiful as pigeons.
Well, for a few weeks during this time of the year they are. But you have to travel to Alaska to witness it.
Today kicks off the 12th Annual Alaska Bald Eagle Festival in Haines, Alaska. The festival focuses on a local phenomenon in which some 3,000 bald eagles converge on a four-mile section of the Chilkat River to feed on a late season salmon run. According to the festival’s website, it is “the largest gathering of eagles in the world.”
Eagles from as far away as the Pacific Northwest visit the river every year at this time due to a natural warming of the waters which keeps the Chilkat free of ice much longer than surrounding bodies of water, and full of tasty salmon.
Guided tours during the festival provide a wonderful opportunity to witness this marvelous bird in such high numbers. In addition, the festival will also feature musical entertainment, wildlife and photo workshops, guest speakers, and a touching release of rehabilitated bald eagles back into their natural habitat.
Sounds like a great time for everyone but the salmon!