Eagle Spotting at Loch Raven - January

Spotting a bald eagle brings a sense of joy, whether you’re spotting one for the first time or your hundredth. Join NHSM’s Naturalist Nick Spero to watch for eagles on a winter day, the perfect time of year to find those who migrate here to spend the winter months. We may spot other birds, too, such as widgeon, Lesser Scaup, Hooded Mergansers, Common Mergansers, Bufflehead, and Redhead ducks.

Here’s an eagle recovery fact. Eagle numbers skyrocketed to an estimated 3,000 breeding pairs, up 1,000 pairs from 2016. Maryland is a base for so many eagles, that the state stopped surveying in 2004. Four hundred breeding pairs were counted then, surpassing population goals. And why do we have so many eagles? The Chesapeake Bay supports three populations of bald eagles: those that live in the region year-round, those that come here from the Southeast to spend the summer months, and those that winter here from farther northeast.

Our trip leader Nick Spero loves to hunt and fish, and primitive technology has piqued his interest since he was a child. You can view a video produced by NPR about Nick here.

Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous (derived from the combination of cold weather and trails)

Remember to

• Don’t underestimate the cold. Dress according to the weather. Layers with non-cotton clothing work best.
• Pocket hand or toe warmers may take the edge off the cold, too.
• Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking boots or sneakers with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
• Bring water, snacks, and for your camera, an extra battery, extra memory card, and lens-cleaning cloth.
• Bring binoculars.
• Bring your guidebooks.
• No pets, please.

The exact meeting space will be provided when registration and payment are complete.

Cancellation Policy: NHSM Field Experiences – Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the field experience will receive a refund (minus a 5% processing fee). Cancellations made within the week of the event will not receive a refund but can be transferred to a friend.

For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.