Bald Eagles in Maryland: Where to See Them and How to Identify Them

Most sightings cluster around large bodies of water. The Chesapeake Bay shoreline, the Potomac River, and the Susquehanna River near the Conowingo Dam are prime spots. In winter, the dam attracts dozens of eagles feeding on fish. Other reliable areas include Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and the Patuxent River. Check our Maryland wildlife page for more location details.

Late fall through early spring offers the best sightings as eagles congregate near open water. December to February is peak at Conowingo Dam. Early morning (sunrise to 9 AM) and late afternoon (3 PM to sunset) are most active feeding times. Summer sees lower numbers but nesting eagles are still visible near their nests.

Adult bald eagles have a solid white head and tail with a dark brown body. Juveniles are mottled brown and take 4-5 years to get white plumage. Compared to turkey vultures, which have smaller heads and rock in flight, eagles fly with flat wings. Ospreys are smaller with a crook in their wings and a white belly. Check our bald eagle identification guide for more details.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

Watch for eagles perching in tall trees near water, soaring in wide circles, or diving feet-first to catch fish. They often steal fish from ospreys. In winter, dozens may gather at feeding sites like Conowingo Dam. Early mornings you might see courtship flights with talon locking.

Keep at least 300 feet from nests and roosts. Use binoculars or a spotting scope. Avoid loud noises and sudden movements. Many viewing platforms exist at Conowingo Dam and Blackwater NWR. Never feed eagles. For more travel tips, see our birding etiquette page.