Bear Valley Bald Eagle count results

   On Saturday March 14th, the final bald eagle count of the winter was conducted by local Federal and State biologists and volunteers around lakes in the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains. They had beautiful weather conditions – warm and calm and large numbers of volunteers turned out for a chance to see one of our magnificent national birds. The effort was successful in tallying the bald eagles spending their winter vacations at local mountain lakes.
   A grand total of 12 eagles (8 adults, 4 juveniles) were observed in the four lake areas during the 1- hour count. Five eagles (3 adults, 2 juveniles) were observed in the Big Bear/Baldwin Lake area; three eagles (2 adults, 1 juvenile) at Lake Arrowhead; two eagles (1 adult, 1 juvenile) at Silverwood Lake; and, two adult eagles at Lake Hemet. Juvenile eagles are distinguished by a brown head and tail; adults are recognized by the famous white head and tail - it takes 4-5 years to acquire full adult coloration.  Juvenile eagles are the same size as the adults.  
   The US Forest had a phenomenal turnout of volunteers - approximately 180 volunteers participated in the 1-hour eagle census at four lakes; 80 at Big Bear area; 18 at Lake Arrowhead; 41 at Lake Hemet; and 38 at Silverwood Lake.
   The Forest Service and State Recreation Area biologists would like to thank the volunteers – it would not be possible to do this census without the help of the public!

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