Salt Lake City, Utah

Birding at Farmington Bay

Originally added by Dan Ransom

Wildlife encounters don't get any more impressive than this. More eagles, hawks, gulls, owls, and birds of prey than you can possibly count. Seriously.

Every winter as the ice thaws, eagles gather at Farmington Bay to feed on huge populations of carp. This can produce a pretty amazing set of circumstances where it's not uncommon to see birds feeding just 50 yards from shore.

The prime viewing opportunity happens around "Bald Eagle Day," an event sponsored by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, where managers kill the invasive species of carp using rotenone, and thousands of birds will congregate for the feast.

While the short window around the eagle event is usually prime, it's possible to avoid the crowds and explore the dike road on your own. It's not unusual to see dozens of species of birds in a single day. January and February are generally your best bet.

Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area is located at 1325 W. Glovers Lane (925 South), a short drive from downtown Salt Lake. Many of the best viewing areas are just a short walk off the Dike Road.