Your Guide to Eagle Watching in Klamath Falls, Oregon

Oregon, especially the southern region, boasts some of the best eagle-watching spots in the contiguous United States. These large, majestic birds are a symbol of the nation. Everyone from the seasoned birder to the casually interested will have an excellent time eagle-spotting in Oregon. Here is your guide to eagle-watching in Klamath Falls, including common eagle species, the best sites and when to visit.

Types of Eagles in Oregon

Most of the United States is home to two eagle species. Here are the types of eagles you will find in Oregon:

• Bald eagles: When you think of eagles, the bald eagle is probably the first to come to mind. These birds have a well-known white head and tail and a wingspan of up to six feet. 
• Golden eagles: This eagle species has brown feathers with golden feathers along the back of the head and neck. They get even bigger than bald eagles, with wingspans up to seven feet. 

Though the state only has two eagle species, visitors might spot other raptors, like falcons, hawks and vultures. Like eagles, these birds are predatory, feeding on other invertebrates. They also share characteristics like powerful talons and sharp beaks, which make them ideal hunters.

Best Eagle Sites in Oregon

Head to Southern Oregon to see the largest eagle concentrations in the state. Klamath Basin sits along the Oregon-California border and houses many bird species, including eagles. Here are a few prime eagle-watching locations in the basin:

• Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge: The government created this protected area because it is a popular wintering spot for bald eagles, with old-growth roost trees.
• Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge: Many migrating bird species roost in the park and around the connecting Agency and Upper Klamath Lakes. 
• Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge: This location is a bit further north, but it is an excellent place to visit for observing eagles. 

While along the California border, consider crossing state lines to continue bird-watching in the Klamath Basin. The best places to see eagles in Northern California include Tule Lake and Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuges. 

The Best Time of Year to See Eagles

When planning a bird-watching trip in Klamath Falls, Oregon, aim to visit during the winter months when you will find the largest populations of eagles in the lower 48 states. Eagles, like many species, seek warmer climates during the winter. While some animals visit tropical areas, eagles stop in the Pacific Northwest, especially in Southern Oregon. 

Klamath Falls eagle populations begin entering the region around late November and stay until early March, when they return to interior Alaska for courtship, nesting and egg-laying. The largest eagle populations come in January and February. Thousands of birds nest near prime hunting areas in the basin. 

The Winter Wings Festival is an excellent opportunity to see eagles during their peak season. The event occurs from February 16 to 19 at the Oregon Institute of Technology. It includes vendors, educational presentations and a mixer event.

Whether you come for the festival or at some other time, plan to visit eagle-watching sites at morning or dusk, as these are the times you are most likely to see them rousing from their roosts or returning for the night. Often, multiple eagles roost together, creating excellent opportunities to see many in one place.

Reserve Your Site for Eagle-Watching

Klamath Falls KOA Journey offers a central location to explore nearby wildlife refuges with thousands of eagles. The friendly staff and comfortable camping and lodging options make your stay more enjoyable — reserve a site online today.