The numerous Bald Eagles that can gather at Onondaga Lake during the winter months can be an amazing site to behold. Where and when to view them is a common question. Here’s some advice on visiting.
There are a few Bald Eagles roosting year round but during winter months the numbers can swell. If area lakes freeze there will be limited fishing opportunities for Eagles. However, the relatively warm water discharged from the waste-water treatment plant keeps a small strip of water from freezing. That open water although relatively small in size serves as a place for hundreds of waterfowl to congregate and dozens of Bald Eagles to fish.
Where is the best place to see the Eagles? There are three areas each with it’s own benefits and challenges.
1. The Mall Parking lot is easy to view from a car. There’s even a raised parking deck that offers a nice view. However the eagles are often on the lake side of the trees – not the mall side. Despite this I have counted as many as 31 eagles in this area.
2. The end of the creek walk is quite accessible. You can park under the bridge and a short 5 minute walk to the end of the creek walk with nice view. The path is plowed so it’s an easy walk on a paved surface. This is probably the best reward for the effort. The eagles often fly from the roosting trees to the open water and pass overhead. It can be crowded with people and is windy since you are right on the water. I’ve seen 25 people in this relatively small area at once.
3. The Pedestrian Bridge is raised and I think has the best view of the eagles sitting on the ice and you can see the action. It’s where I take my Eagle Action Shots. However, the walk from the parking area is about 15 minutes and the path is not plowed so it’s hard packed snow and uneven. It’s also raised which means a good view but windy. It can be brutally cold. As a bonus I’ve seen a Northern Harrier during this walk on many occasions.
Viewing Tips
- Any of these areas have good views but binoculars are definitely worthwhile. Sometimes they fly overhead but roosting trees are up to 1/4 mile away.
- Dress warm. Either outdoor location can be cold but the bridge in particular can be brutally cold.
- Camera. A cell phone is nice for a selfie but a telephoto lens will be needed to get closer to the action.
- Spend some time. Wildlife has its own schedule. Patience can have great rewards.
