Tranquility here: Eagles have landed (WA)

[Donna]

January is the time of year bald eagles roost in the trees along the Skagit River during their annual migration. It makes for spectacular viewing, and thanks to the U.S. Forest Service, volunteers will be available to help visitors better appreciate the majestic birds.

There are three viewing stations with off-highway parking along North Cascades Hwy. 20 that provide spotting scopes and binoculars to help people see the birds up close. Volunteers will be available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays in January.

Eagle-watching stations are located at Howard Miller Steelhead Park in Rockport, the Sutter Creek Rest Area near milepost 100 and the Marblemount Fish Hatchery. Look for the yellow signs. For more information, call 360-856-5700.

Here are some tips from the U.S. Forest Service for eagle viewing:

• Eagles typically can be seen feeding on the river gravel bars during early morning hours.

• Most of the river frontage is privately owned. Use public areas along the river.

• To see eagles up close, use a spotting scope, binoculars or telephoto camera lens. You are more likely to see wildlife if you are patient.

• Keep noise low and movements slow. Eagles tend to spook when there is too much activity.

• For your safety, park your car in pullouts well off the highway. Use caution when crossing roads.

• Never walk in the river or stream or conduct other activity that could disturb spawning salmon or their egg sacs, called redds.

Herald Staff