Yes, there are bald eagles in Kansas City. The Kansas City District is known for its thriving bald eagle population, with up to 3,000 eagles migrating to the area during the winter months.
Bald Eagle Population in Kansas City
According to a 2022 aerial survey, 138 bald eagles were counted at Smithville Lake in Missouri, and it’s not uncommon to view 70 to 80 eagles at Milford Lake in Kansas during a typical December or January afternoon. The area’s Corps lakes have provided critical habitat for hundreds of wintering birds in portions of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska for over 30 years, leading to the hatching and fledging of 215 juvenile eagles from more than 30 nesting territories.
Why Do Bald Eagles Migrate to Kansas City?
Image source: Pexels by Anrita Krause
Bald eagles are drawn to Kansas in the winter when rivers and lakes in the northern parts of their range freeze over. They are attracted to places where the water remains open and they can go fishing. The construction of large water impoundments, such as lakes and reservoirs, has also provided new habitat for bald eagles, leading to the expansion of their population in the Midwest.
Bald Eagle Protection in Kansas City
Bald eagles are still protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act as well as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is a violation to “take” an individual, which can also result from disturbance such that a nesting attempt is not successful. No active nest should be approached any closer than 100 yards on foot or in a boat until and unless the pair exhibits an acceptance of such behavior.
Bald Eagle Viewing Opportunities in Kansas City
The Kansas City area offers numerous opportunities to view bald eagles in their natural habitat. Some popular spots include:
- Smithville Lake in Missouri
- Milford Lake in Kansas
- Riverfront Park in Kansas City, Missouri
- Parkville Nature Sanctuary in Parkville, Missouri
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kansas City is home to a thriving bald eagle population, with up to 3,000 eagles migrating to the area during the winter months. The Corps lakes in the Kansas City District have provided critical habitat for these birds for over 30 years, leading to the hatching and fledging of hundreds of juvenile eagles. While bald eagles are no longer listed as endangered or threatened, they are still protected by federal law, and it is important to respect their space and not disturb their nests.
References:
– Reddit post on Overland Park bald eagle
– Corps Lakes action drill on bald eagles
– Kansas River Organization’s page on bald eagles
