Local naturalist Brian Keating easily spotted two bald eagles at Carburn Park in southeast Calgary. These eagles have been nesting in the area for many years, providing a common sight for visitors. The Bow River in Calgary serves as an excellent year-round habitat for bald eagles, contributing to their increasing presence in the city and the province.
Bald eagles have expanded their habitat in Alberta, with sightings not limited to mountainous regions but also extending to Prairie rivers. The Alberta Birds of Prey Foundation in Coaldale witnesses this expansion firsthand, with a notable rise in the eagle population along the rivers in southern Alberta. The province hosts both resident and migratory bald eagles, attracted by abundant food sources like fish and migratory ducks in the region.
Apart from the expected areas, bald eagles have been observed in unexpected locations, such as agricultural fields, drawn by the presence of dead livestock. Conservation efforts have led to a significant increase in bald eagle populations in North America. The species, once endangered, has made a remarkable recovery due to initiatives like breeding programs and the banning of harmful pesticides. The ban on killing bald eagles in the U.S. and successful conservation measures have contributed to this resurgence.
Despite the conservation success, bald eagles in Canada face ongoing threats, including poaching, habitat loss, and environmental contamination. Lead poisoning, primarily from lead ammunition used in hunting and fishing, poses a severe risk to bald eagles. Conservationists emphasize the importance of addressing these threats to ensure the continued well-being of these iconic birds.