The Golden Eagle Migration

Each spring large numbers of Golden Eagles fly from their wintering grounds (the mountain states of western U.S.A. to as far south as northern Mexico) to breeding grounds in Alaska and Yukon. They return south in the fall.

The population of Golden Eagles is widely scattered in their wintering and breeding grounds and therefore almost impossible to study.

But along the migration route(s), they pass by in relatively narrow streams and large numbers can be observed.

Our main study efforts have been concentrated at observation sites in the front ranges of the Rocky Mountains of Alberta where one large stream of Golden Eagles passes twice each year.

Another stream uses geological features along the Rocky Mountain Trench in British Columbia, and some regular observations have started there near Cranbook, BC.

When do they migrate?

The first Golden Eagles go north in late February. The peak migration period lasts from mid March to the end of April. The spring migration is over by the end of May.

In the fall some Golden Eagles are seen to return south in late August. The peak migration lasts from mid September until the beginning of November. Dwindling numbers are seen until early December.

When can they be seen?

Migrating Golden Eagles roost on the ridges during the nights and some start moving soon after dawn. We have found over many years that, in good migrating weather, the movement tends to build up during the morning and reach a maximum in mid afternoon. Movement stops as it is getting dark and we often see the birds settling on the peaks.

We cannot predict when a big movement will take place. Very often, perfect migrating conditions at our observation sites produce few sightings because the flow may be blocked by poor conditions elsewhere. At other times our own bad weather is the cause.

Some years ago eagle enthusiasts from Japan came to see the unique migration. Every day the mountains were shrouded by cloud but about noon on their last day the wind shifted, the clouds lifted and that afternoon over 500 Golden Eagles flowed through. It was almost as if a dam had burst.

For weather comfort, together with plenty of eagles, we have found early October to be the best time of year – beautiful warm days and beautiful fall colours. However come prepared for sudden changes.