Yes, there are bald eagles in Maine. According to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, bald eagles are primarily fish eaters in inland settings like lakes and rivers, but they eat a more varied diet in coastal estuaries and offshore areas, including seabirds and waterfowl.
Bald Eagle Population in Maine
As of 2023, there are 734 confirmed bald eagle nesting pairs in Maine, representing a 16.1% increase in the last ten years. The birds mate at the age of five, and females lay between 2 and 4 eggs each year, with only two eggs typically hatching.
Best Places to Spot Bald Eagles in Maine
Image source: Pexels by Anrita Krause
Bald eagles are often seen near sources of water, especially large, open expanses like big lakes. Here are some of the best places to spot bald eagles in Maine:
- Acadia National Park
- Androscoggin County
- Aroostook County
- Cumberland County
- Damariscotta River
- Franklin County
- Hancock County
- Kennebec County
- Knox County
- Lincoln County
- Oxford County
- Penobscot County
- Piscataquis County
- Sagadahoc County
- Somerset County
- Waldo County
- Washington County
- York County
However, wildlife authorities report that York County is the least likely county to spot bald eagles due to fewer wildlife resources and protection areas.
Specific Locations to See Bald Eagles in Maine
Here are some specific locations in Maine where bald eagles can be spotted:
- Great Falls of the Androscoggin River in Androscoggin County
- Banks of the Androscoggin River in Androscoggin County
- Aroostook County, especially in the morning between dawn and 11 a.m. when they are searching for food
- Damariscotta River
- Penobscot River, which is the second-longest river in Maine and empties into Penobscot Bay
Bald eagles are known to fly as far as 124 miles in search of food, but when they have chicks in their nest, they tend to protect a small area close to the nest by staying close.
Conclusion
Maine is home to a significant population of bald eagles, with confirmed nesting pairs increasing by 16.1% in the last ten years. The birds are primarily fish eaters and can be spotted near sources of water, especially large, open expanses like big lakes. Acadia National Park, Androscoggin County, Aroostook County, Cumberland County, Damariscotta River, Franklin County, Hancock County, Kennebec County, Knox County, Lincoln County, Oxford County, Penobscot County, Piscataquis County, Sagadahoc County, Somerset County, Waldo County, Washington County, and York County are some of the best places to spot bald eagles in Maine.
References:
– Hancock Wildlife Forum
– Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife
– A-Z Animals
– Acadia National Park
– Three Rivers Whitewater
