runakid Loc: Shelbyville, TN

Heading that way and am wondering if early in May is too early or too late?

MrPhotog

https://www.eopugetsound.org/science-review/10-bald-eagles

Link has info on eagles around Puget Sound. They start nesting in Jan and Feb.

Since the eggs hatch about 35 days later, that would be early March to about now.

https://hancockwildlife.org/hancock-wildlife-reference/bald-eagle-biology/eggs-incubation-hatching/

I don’t know how long the babies stay in the nest after hatching, and before they fly, but that is probably close to now.

JFCoupe Loc: Kent, Washington

Seabeck is an area a short distance from Silverdale where there is a wide shoulder for parking along the highway as well as the beach when the tide is low.
There is a small fish, the midshipman, I think, that starts spawning in the spring and is food for the eagles. I have typically gone to Seabeck in May and June, but April may be good as well. Typically days with low tides are the best as the fish are easy to catch in the tide pools or shallow water. I have found that it is best to get to the location as the tide starts going out as it keeps the eagles closer to shore and you can fill the frame easier. Extreme low tides when the water line is significantly out is not as good as the eagles seem to work the waterline.

I have seen upwards of twenty eagles on the beach at one time. Plus there are usually a good contingent of Great Blue Herons feeding as well. Canada Geese and Gulls will also be in the area.

I would suggest that you probably will want a lens with at least 400mm reach and even 600mm is very good.

jeff1234 Loc: Kirkland, WA

I would also recommend May in Seabeck. Also lots of herons.

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

It’s about 58 days for the eaglets to fledge.

MrPhotog

Is that measured from the time the eggs are laid, or from when they hatch?

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

From when they hatch.