Photo by Tina Evangelista-Eppenstein This is a view of the dam with the observation deck located on the left side. There were many sea gulls flying in this area alongside bald eagles. It was quite a site to see all of the eagles in one spot.
If you are a fan of watching and taking photos of birds and in particular, bald eagles, make sure to visit Conowingo Dam in Harford County, northern Maryland located nine miles away from the Chesapeake Bay. Over 170 species of birds have been attracted to this area but the star of the show from November to February is the bald eagle. Sea gulls and great blue herons among others also attract bird enthusiasts and photographers.
The huge hyrodelectric dam produces electricity for Conowingo. It is located on the Susquehanna River. As the dam creates electricity, fish and water are sucked through the turbines. The fish are stunned and become easy prey for piscivorous birds.
This past weekend, I took an impromptu trip to this destination which drew 800 people on Bald Eagle Day at the dam in November. There were nowhere near that many people while I was there but there were many photographers with their high-powered long lens capturing photos of bald eagles and other species of birds.
The bald eagle was chosen as the emblem of the United States of American, because of its long life, great strength and majestic looks. Watching them fly around is not a disappointment.
When a parking spot was found, all I had to do was look up into the bare tree and see two eagles. I captured this image using my cell phone. Very poor quality. I know. I didn’t bring my professional camera since it was a spontaneous trip.
Photo by Tina Evangelista-Eppenstein As you can see I was not using a professional camera when I caught the image of two eagles above me.
Here is what a professional photographer’s image of three eagles in a tree actually looks like. Stunning and magnificent creatures. Photo by David Lychenheim.
Photo by David Lychenheim
While walking around the grounds, I came across a feather from a bald eagle. Did you know it is illegal to keep one of these feathers? Thank God I didn’t grab it since doing so could cost you a fine of $25,000 and receive a jail sentence. Only individuals of certifiable American Indian ancestry are legally authorized to obtain bald eagle feathers
Photo by Tina Evangelista-Eppenstein Bald Eagle feather on grounds at Conowingo Dam. You can be fined $25,000 and receive a jail sentence for keeping one.
According to a Facebook page for the Bald Eagles at Conowingo Dam run by photographer David Lychenheim, the last recent report he received regarding the number of eagle seen was around 200.
He advises patience since activity of the eagles can be sporadic since they aren’t confined to one area. Some days they are very active other days prove to be slow.
It is also suggested not to visit for only a brief time because you may leave disappointed. Many people arrive in the early morning and stay for hours.
Conowingo Dam is considered one of the best places, if not the best place east of the Mississippi River, to view bald eagles. It is a popular site which brings people as far away as Canada.
I was there for two hours and didn’t leave disappointed. Just a reminder, if you have a good/professional camera, bring it. If you have a scope, you will be privy to seeing these amazing creatures up close.
I captured this photo as an eagle was flying away. I realize the quality doesn’t match a professional’s but the memory of it will stay with me.
Photo by Tina Evangelista-Eppenstein
The following photos were shot by David Lychenheim. This is what you may see if you visit Conowongo Dam. You can see more photos by visiting the Bald Eagle facebook page.
Have a story, please email me at tevangelistaepp@yahoo. Like my tv page at https://www.facebook.com/ACloseUpLookAtAnimalWelfareIssues.
Is it difficult to drive there?
I live in the Pottstown area.
It is approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes from the Pottstown area to Conowingo Dam. There are different routes to go to reach this destination. I would sugges googling the directions or use your navigation/gps device for your car. It isn’t difficult getting there. When you go across the bridge over the Susquehanna, make a left at the sign. You will drive up a hill. You will want to make a sharp left which says NO OUTLET. There is where the parking lots and the observation deck are located. Good luck! Thanks.
$25,000 for keeping an eagle’s feather. People get out on bail for murder on less money than that. Something is off here.
The place looks cool. Those photos by Lychheim are fantastic.
Birds of a feather flock together.
I love birdies.
Never knew Conowingo dam existed. You can sit and watch all day. At least I could.
Amazing photos from David Lychenheim. No offense, Tina. Cell phones can’t take those kinds of photos. I don’t have an expensive camera to take photographs like that but can appreciate those who do.