The national bird of the U.S. was seriously endangered by the 1970s due to the effects of DDT and other
pesticides. It has made a gradual comeback and is no longer listed as
endangered. Can often be found around open water in the winter, including around
the Big Sioux River near Sioux Falls.
Habitat:
Typically near rivers or
large lakes. Generally found around water, but can be found in open dry
country, particularly during migration.
Diet:
Mostly fish when available. When fish are scarce, may eat birds (ducks,
coots, others) or mammals (rabbits, muskrats, others). Very opportunistic, often
feeds on carrion or steals fish from other birds, such as Osprey.
Behavior: While Bald Eagles will sometimes steal prey
items from other birds, or feed on carrion, they also can be powerful hunters.
Nesting: Rare breeder in various
parts of the state.
Song: Both sexes utter gull-like
squealing cackle of kleek-kik-ik-ik-ik or lower kak-kak-kak.
Migrations: Some
coastal populations are permanent residents, but birds in the interior of the
country are generally migratory. Winters throughout the U.S., many birds
summer in Canada.
Status: Has greatly expanded in numbers
since the 1970s.
Similar Species: Juvenile similar to
Golden Eagle. Adult unmistakable.
South Dakota "Hotspot": Winter
time below the Missouri River dams is great for finding concentrations of Bald
Eagles. Directly below Gavin's Point Dam has always been great for
me. There's one cottonwood tree on the south side of the dam (actually in
Nebraska) that almost without fail holds an eagle in the winter (I've seen up to
8 at one time in this one tree!). Just cross the dam to the Nebraska
side. The road will turn to the east. Just past the visitor entrance
to the dam is a fence you'll drive past. The Cottonwood tree immediately
on the left is where you'll likely see one or more Bald Eagles in the winter.
Anywhere near the dam (and open water) is great in winter, though.
2)
Cornell University's "All About Birds - Bald Eagle"
3)
E-nature.com: Bald Eagle
Photo Information: December 15th, 2002 -- Below Gavins Point Dam -- Terry L. Sohl
Additional Photos: Click
on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Bald
Eagle photos.
