A Gathering of Eagles(high resolution conowingo eagle images):

The bald eagles at Conowingo Dam are a sight to behold. Dozens of these majestic birds nest and live permanently in Susquehanna State Park near the dam. In winter, near 100 bald eagles have been reported to gather and feast on the disoriented fish. However, the number of eagles has decreased since its likely peak time in the late 2010s. For example, the counting number of eagles was often around 20-30s in November 2023, according to the popular Conowingo Bald Eagles Facebook Page. This decrease could be due to pollution, habitat loss, human disturbance, and natural fluctuations.

A Photographer’s Paradise:

The Conowingo Dam is a popular spot for photographers aiming to capture the beauty of these bald eagles. The best location to see bald eagles at Conowingo Dam is at the public access area at Shures Landing Road. Eagles can be seen perched in the woods along both river shorelines, even in the trees adjacent to the Conowingo Fisherman’s Park car lot. It’s a truly remarkable sight and a testament to the resilience and majesty of these incredible birds.

Getting spectacular photographs of bald eagles fishing can be tricky. Here are some interesting points from my very first trip to the dam.

1.The working condition of the generators at the Conowingo Dam seems to have a significant impact on the behavior of the fish and, consequently, the bald eagles. When the two internal turbines (driving generators no. 2 and 6) are running, this is considered a normal condition and occurs most of the time for the period of my visit. However, when too many turbines are running (sometimes with 6 more external turbines in the middle of the dam), it produces a strong current that pushes the fish further away from the shoreline and even to the other side of the island. This could potentially affect the feeding patterns of the bald eagles and might be one of the factors influencing their numbers at the dam. It’s fascinating to see how the operation of the dam intertwines with the natural ecosystem in such a profound way.

2. The wind and blow direction indeed play a crucial role in the behavior of the eagles and the opportunities for photographers at the Conowingo Dam. Eagles use a moderated headwind to lift fish, and strong or gusty winds may not be favorable for their fishing action. Predicting the headwind direction near the dam can be challenging for photographers due to the variable local wind directions, which can be very different from areas further away from the dam. However, generally speaking, a south wind direction is preferred for capturing the eagle fishing action at the park.

3. Finding the right spot and timing is crucial for capturing the best shots of the bald eagles at the Conowingo Dam. Good Spot: The best close-distance action typically happens near the so-called fishing pier and fence line. These areas provide the best chances of witnessing eagle-fishing and related shows. The close distance could be around or less than 100 yards from the shoreline. Timing: Positioning yourself in the afternoon sun between 12pm and 3pm can offer the best light and action, especially in November or December. As the golden rule of bird photography goes, “distance is the king.” So, being as close as safely possible can significantly enhance the quality of the photographs.

4. Choosing the right camera and lens is important for capturing the best shots of the bald eagles at the Conowingo Dam. Camera: A mirrorless or DSLR camera from a reputable brand is recommended. These cameras typically offer superior image quality, performance, and flexibility compared to compact cameras or smartphones. Lens: A telephoto lens with a focal length of 400mm or more is recommended. In my experience, a telephoto lens with 600mm x 1.4 TC seems to be the best choice. This type of lens allows photographers to capture close-up shots of the eagles from a distance. However, there’s a catch. Eagle-fishing action may occasionally happen at a very close range, something like 10 yards in front of the fence line, as reported on Dec. 8, 2023, on the Conowingo Bald Eagles Facebook page. In such cases, a relatively shorter zoom lens would be a much better choice.

5. Observing the eagle-fishing action at the Conowingo Dam can be a thrilling experience. Eagle Behavior: There are two or more pairs of experienced local eagles who often offer the best shows. These experienced eagles can suddenly dive down from trees behind the parking lots unexpectedly to catch fish in the areas close to the shoreline. They will chase each other, with more juveniles joining in for subsequently spectacular actions! Juveniles, on the other hand, prefer to dive from towers at the island to the right side of the fence line in close distance. Patience and Practice: Patience and practice tracking the eagles in flight are key. Eagles are wild animals, and their actions are unpredictable. Being well-prepared and patient can help you witness these magnificent creatures in action. Photography Tips: Practicing tracking the eagles in flight will help you get clear, focused high-quality images at a relatively close distance. Remember, as the golden rule of bird photography goes, “distance is the king.”

A Community of Eagle Lovers:

The Conowingo Bald Eagles Facebook page is a community where bald eagle lovers, photographers, and visitors can view and share information. It’s a great place to connect with others who share a passion for these magnificent birds. The Conowingo Dam and its bald eagles offer a unique opportunity to witness nature’s grandeur. Whether you’re a photographer, a birdwatcher, or just someone who appreciates wildlife, a visit to Conowingo Dam is sure to be an unforgettable experience.You can view more images of my trip at high resolution conowingo eagle images. Thank you for sharing these valuable insights and tips. They will undoubtedly be beneficial for bird watchers and photographers planning to visit the dam. 😊