Bald eagles are present in Arkansas. These national symbols have made a remarkable return to the state, representing a significant conservation success story.
Bald Eagle Presence in Arkansas
Arkansas hosts both resident bald eagles and a substantial number of winter migrants. Around 80 breeding pairs reside in the state year-round, primarily along the Arkansas River. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission estimates there are between 150 and 160 active bald eagle nests across Arkansas.
A larger population of bald eagles migrates to Arkansas for the winter, with approximately 1,700 individuals arriving as northern waters begin to freeze. These birds stay from late October until March. Bald eagles prefer habitats near large bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, which provide abundant fishing opportunities, their primary food source. Northern Arkansas, with its open water, food, and shelter, is a particularly attractive destination for these winter visitors.
Prime Viewing Locations and Times
For those hoping to observe bald eagles in Arkansas, the winter months, from November through February, offer the best viewing opportunities, as this is when migratory populations are at their peak. January is designated as “Eagle Awareness Month” in the state, often featuring special events. Mid to late morning is frequently the best time to spot them soaring as temperatures begin to rise.
Several state parks and wildlife refuges provide excellent viewing locations. Lake Dardanelle State Park, Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area, Bull Shoals-White River State Park, and DeGray Lake Resort State Park are known for eagle sightings and often offer guided tours. Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge is another prime spot, with year-round sightings that become more frequent in winter and early spring. The Eagle Watch Nature Trail near Gentry, where water remains unfrozen due to a power plant, also attracts eagles seeking fishing opportunities. Using binoculars or spotting scopes is recommended, and maintaining a respectful distance is important to avoid disturbing them.
Conservation Success Story
The bald eagle faced severe population declines in the mid-20th century, largely due to habitat destruction, illegal shooting, and the widespread use of the pesticide DDT. DDT entered waterways, accumulated in fish, and caused eggshells to thin, leading to reproductive failure. By the early 1960s, there were no known eagle nests in Arkansas, and only about 412 breeding pairs remained in the contiguous United States.
Major conservation efforts, including the federal ban on DDT in 1972, played a significant role in their recovery. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 provided habitat protection. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940 and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act also protect eagles, their nests, and eggs. These protective measures and reintroduction programs, such as one initiated in Arkansas in 1982, enabled bald eagle populations to rebound, leading to their removal from the federal endangered species list in 2007.