Power for Progress: Revisiting Eagle Pass

Power for Progress…

A weekly column from the Grand River Dam Authority

Revisiting Eagle Pass

From mid-December to March, an area just below the Grand River Dam Authority’s Pensacola Dam, becomes a haven for both the American Bald Eagle and the Golden Eagle. In fact, several years ago, GRDA even designated the area “Eagle Pass” and installed signage to help promote the area to the public.

To access Eagle Pass, follow Broadway Avenue south out of Langley, Oklahoma to N4475 Rd (the road that runs below Pensacola Dam). Go east on N4475 until you cross the bridge, then turn right (south) onto the dirt road and follow it around to the eagle viewing areas. The location is a quiet spot for viewing the majestic birds that are most active very early in the morning, when it is common to see as many as 40 eagles in the area.

Please keep in mind that in early January, GRDA did close off a portion of the dam spillway area (to the east of Eagle Pass) to provide a buffer zone for an active eagle’s nest. That area is marked with signage advising the public of the nest. Disturbing an active nest is a violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and could result in a criminal fine of $100,000. However, the Eagle Pass area remains open to the public for viewing other eagle activity.

The American Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is the only eagle unique to North America. Its range extends across most of the continent from Northern Canada and Alaska all the way down to northern Mexico. The eagles, both males and females, are recognizable by their blackish-brown backs and breasts with yellow feet and bills. They also have white heads, necks, and tails.

The Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) has a much broader range and can be found not only in North America (and below Pensacola Dam) but also in Europe, North Africa. and Asia. These birds are dark brown and the plumage on their heads and necks is a lighter golden-brown. Typically, their feathers go all the way to their toes, while the American Bald Eagle has more leg showing.

Bald eagles will hunt small fish, often snatching them off the surface of the water or even stealing them from other birds. Again, the best time to watch the birds feeding is early in the morning.

GRDA’s Eagle Pass area is just one of many locations where eagle watching is a popular winter past-time. The birds can also be found below many other dams and lakes across the state.