Bald Eagle Sightings Show Majestic Birds Thriving in South Dakota

It's no secret that South Dakota is home to some incredible wildlife, but seeing our national bird up close is always a jaw-dropping moment. Thanks to a local amateur photographer, we have some fresh proof that these majestic birds are thriving right in our backyard.

Local amateur photographer Nicholas Schnider recently managed to capture some beautiful images of two different bald eagles in the Minnehaha County area. The stunning photos show the distinct behavior of these massive raptors, with one captured mid-flight, soaring effortlessly through the air, and another patiently perched high in a tree canopy.

What makes these photos special is where they were taken. One of the bald eagles was spotted soaring just east of the small town of Humboldt. The other was photographed relaxing at Family Park, right on the western edge of Sioux Falls. It proves you do not have to travel deep into the wilderness to spot these incredible creatures.

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Bald Eagle Glides Over The Open Sky Near Humboldt

Bald Eagle Surveying Its Territory At Family Park In Sioux Falls

Eagle Nest In The Sioux Falls Area

Seeing them active right now makes perfect sense. June is a highly active month for bald eagles in South Dakota. According to wildlife experts, this time of year is peak nesting season, and many local eagle pairs are busy hunting to feed their rapidly growing eaglets, who are preparing to leave the nest by mid-summer.

While bald eagles were once a rare sight 60 years ago, conservation efforts have brought them back in a big way. South Dakota now boasts an estimated 140 to 150 breeding pairs across the state. Keep your eyes on the skies around Humboldt and the Sioux Falls parks - you might spot South Dakota’s most majestic residents looking right back at you.

Story Source: World Population Review Website