In southeast Calgary’s Carburn Park, local naturalist Brian Keating quickly spotted two bald eagles near the river. Keating mentioned that this particular pair has been nesting in Calgary for many years, making eagle sightings a common occurrence in the area. The Bow River provides an ideal habitat for bald eagles to thrive year-round in the city.
Bald eagles are now more prevalent across Alberta, from the Bow River to the grasslands. Colin Weir, managing director of the Alberta Birds of Prey Foundation, noted an increase in bald eagle sightings along Prairie rivers in the last decade. He explained that the province’s bald eagle population consists of both year-round residents and migratory birds, attracted to the abundant food sources like fish and migratory ducks found in southern Alberta’s rivers.
The latest local Christmas Bird Count revealed a significant increase in bald eagle numbers in and around Calgary, with over 400 eagles spotted. This surge in bald eagle populations is reflected in data compiled by NatureCounts, showing a steady rise in the species across North America. Conservation efforts, such as banning harmful pesticides and protecting the birds from hunting, have led to a notable resurgence of bald eagles.
Despite their population recovery, bald eagles in Canada still face threats like poaching and habitat loss. The Alberta Wildlife Act prohibits the hunting and harassment of bald eagles in the province, yet poaching incidents continue to occur. Keating emphasized that habitat loss and environmental contamination, particularly from lead poisoning, pose serious risks to bald eagle populations. Lead exposure through hunting ammunition and fishing gear remains a major concern for the birds’ well-being.