Concurrent Bald Eagle counts are held at Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, Lake Silverwood, Lake Perris, and Lake Hemet. Volunteers are stationed at vantage points around the lakes, where they watch for bald eagles during a 1-hour period on the count mornings. Volunteers record their observations on maps and data sheets. This is a wonderful opportunity to catch a glimpse of our breath-taking national symbol. A brief orientation is conducted prior to the count so volunteers know where to go and what to do. “Through this method, the agencies and land managers have learned a lot about which areas are important to eagles and how the populations are doing. But we can’t do it without a lot of volunteers – we need their eyes to help us look,” said Forest Service biologist Robin Eliason.
The bald eagle counts for this winter are scheduled for the following Saturday mornings: December 15, January 12, February 9, and March 9. No experience needed. Signing up ahead of time is unnecessary – just show up at the designated time and location, dress warmly, bring binoculars and a watch.
- Big Bear Lakearea volunteers will meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Forest Service’s Big Bear Discovery Center on North Shore Drive for orientation. Contact Robin Eliason ([email protected] 909-382-2832) for more information. Contact the Discovery Center (909-866-2789) for information about Eagle Celebrations.
- Lake Arrowhead/Lake Gregoryvolunteers will meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Skyforest Ranger Station for orientation. Contact Robin Eliason ([email protected] 909-382-2832) for more information.
- Silverwood Lake State Recreation Areavolunteers should plan to meet at the Visitor Center at 8:00 a.m. for orientation. Contact Kathy Williams or Mark Wright for more information about volunteering or taking an eagle tour (760-389-2303 between 8:00 and 4:00; or email: khwilliams@parks.ca.gov).
- Lake Hemetvolunteers should plan on meeting at the Lake Hemet Grocery Store at 8:30 a.m. for orientation. Contact Anne Poopatanapong ([email protected] 909-382-2935) for more information.
- Lake Perris State Recreation Areavolunteers should plan to meet at the Lake Perris Regional Indian Museum at 8:00 for orientation. Contact the office for more information at 951-940-5600.
