Due to numerous inquiries to my personal e-mail address about the Bald Eagle phenomenon in the Conneaut Harbor Area in Ashtabula County, I will try to give some insight into successful viewing of the Conneaut Bald Eagles. First of all, you need a good spotting scope. Second of all, you must arrive as early as possible. The gate to "The Sandspit" is normally open by 7AM. Most of the eagles have dispersed for the day by 10AM or when the sun comes out. After that, around six can usually be found the rest of the day. Overcast, rainy days, are also normally ideal for viewing the spectacular eagle gathering. If you are the first to arrive in the morning, there are commonly 6 to 9 eagles hanging out on "The Sandspit", along with Turkey Vultures, which have numbered up to 90. My observations of the Bald Eagles began back in the Summer of 2007. At that time, 15, was a high count. The sometimes spectacular gathering seems to occur from mid May thru late August, with the peak count being around mid July. As the years have passed by, the numbers have continually increased. Even though Summer is the most consistent for sightings, there are other times of the year that also have high numbers. During the past two years, 42 to 46 were average high numbers being reported by others. My wife Denise and my eagle count yesterday, Wednesday, of 52, was our highest ever. About eighty percent of the eagle count can be seen scoping from the sandspit. One adult to twelve juveniles would be an average sighting ratio. Scan all of the breakwalls, then check all of the aggregate piles to the east, the conveyors, and then the trees in the background behind the aggregate piles for roosting eagles. Six juvenile eagles sitting together is not uncommon. So count numbers can add up quick. To continue the count, take the road next to The Subway Restaurant toward Lake Erie to the top of the hill, there is presently a cable blocking the end of the road, and scan the backside of the piles and the channel sheeting walls and railings. To finish out the count, take the street east from The Subway Restaurant, go around the corner to the right at the gate, to the large parking lot on top of the hill. From this vantage point, the Conneaut Creek channel heading toward the harbor, can be viewed. Why Bald Eagles prefer to congregate in The Conneaut Harbor Area, would be nice to know. All I know is, that it is something pretty special for Ohio. 

Bob Lane / Mahoning County                                        
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