No, there are no golden eagles in Kansas. The only eagle species found in the state is the bald eagle. Kansas is home to a growing population of bald eagles, with over 100 nesting pairs reported in 2021. These majestic birds can be seen throughout the year, but their activity increases during the winter months when they migrate south.
Bald Eagles in Kansas
Bald eagles are known for their impressive size, with a wingspan over six feet, and they are second only to the California Condor as the largest birds of prey in North America. They are unique to North America and are found nowhere else in the world. In Kansas, bald eagles are most commonly found near large, unfrozen bodies of water, such as reservoirs and rivers, where they hunt for fish and small mammals.
The bald eagle population in Kansas has been steadily increasing since the 1980s, with the first contemporary documentation of an active bald eagle nest reported at Clinton Reservoir in Douglas County in 1989. Since then, approximately 299 nesting territories have been reported in the state, with new territories reported each winter and spring.
Bald Eagle Research in Kansas
Research on Kansas bald eagle populations began in 1989, but little is still known about the ecology of the species in the state. A three-year research study on the ecology of Kansas-hatched bald eagles began in 2021 with just 13 birds, but has since been expanded to include nearly 30 bald eagles thanks to voluntary contributions made to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Park’s nongame species donation program, Chickadee Checkoff.
Bald Eagle Viewing Opportunities in Kansas
Image source: Golden Eagle by Atillak
Bald eagles can be seen throughout Kansas, but they are most active during the winter months near large, unfrozen bodies of water. Some of the best places to see bald eagles in Kansas include:
| Location | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|
| Clinton Reservoir | December to February |
| Milford Lake | December to February |
| Perry Lake | December to February |
| Tuttle Creek Reservoir | December to February |
These reservoirs and lakes offer ample opportunities to observe bald eagles in their natural habitat, as they hunt for fish and small mammals.
Conclusion
In summary, while golden eagles are not found in Kansas, the state is home to a growing population of bald eagles. These birds can be seen throughout the year, but are most active during the winter months near large, unfrozen bodies of water. Research on Kansas bald eagle populations is ongoing, with the goal of better understanding the ecology of the species in the state.
References:
– Kansas River Organization – Bald Eagles in Kansas
– Scott Bean Photography – Bald Eagles in Kansas (December 2021)
– The Topeka Capital-Journal – Eagles Flock to Kansas
– Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks – KDWP Expands Three-year Research Study of Bald Eagles in Kansas
– Travel Awaits – Best Places to See Bald Eagles in Kansas During Winter
