Bald eagles in winter

Minnesota's wintering bald eagles

Each year, the Mississippi River valley becomes a migration corridor for many species of waterfowl, raptors, and shorebirds moving through from their northern summer homes to warmer southern wintering grounds. During this time, southeastern Minnesota is host to significant numbers of bald eagles making their way south. Approximately 50-75 bald eagles prefer to overwinter in the Wabasha area of the Mississippi River, where the current of the inflowing Chippewa River maintains open water throughout the winter. Eagles may also be found along the river in Red Wing, Minnesota.

The eagles begin to congregate in early November, with the best viewing opportunities in December through March. Mornings and evenings, the eagles can be seen soaring and diving for fish. During the day, they typically perch on tall trees at the river's edge.

Winter roosting areas:
Red Wing area
Wabasha area