Alaska Eagle Photography | 4 places to photograph eagles in Juneau, Alaska
Mary Parkhill photographing wildlife in Juneau, Alaska
If you have visited Juneau, Alaska, then you have probably spotted a few Bald Eagles flying overhead or sitting on lamp posts and have heard their distinctive cries. Their massive wing spans, powerful jaws and impressive talons all add to this bird’s allure.
I often receive the question of “where should I go to photograph bald eagles?” To see the most amount of eagles in the shortest amount of time (to give yourself as many opportunities to photograph these majestic eagles), then continue reading.
Based on spending my summers in Juneau, Alaska, below is a list of the best areas to photograph Bald Eagles.
Where to photograph Bald Eagles in Juneau, Alaska?
Shores of the Gastineau Channel: During low tide, Bald Eagles flock to the sides of the channel in search for treats that the sea has left behind. As the salmon runs start and as the summer season progresses, the volume of eagles increases.
Statter Harbor: In an area known as Auke Bay (north of the city of Juneau), Statter Harbor is one of the more prominent harbors. It’s home to commercial fishermen, fishing charters, whale watching and personal boats. In this area, you will often see Bald Eagles hanging around the docks and in the nearby pine trees.
Around Humpback Whales: When Humpback Whales feed, often times they churn the ocean waters and bait fish (ex. herring) will swim/float closer to the surface. Eagles will swoop in and snatch up the fish in their talons making for great action shots!
DIPAC Hatchery: When the salmon begin to run, Eagles can be found waiting around DIPAC salmon hatchery (even in the trees across the road). This area offers unique opportunities to catch eagles eating salmon along the shore - just watch-out for the anglers in the area! While in the area, at a low tide check out Salmon Creek just a few hundred yards north of DIPAC for a great vantage point of eagles preying on incoming salmon.
Bald Eagle Photographs Taken in Juneau, Alaska
Two eagles fighting each other during a feeding frenzy in Juneau, Alaska
Bald Eagle’s spread wings as it takes flight with a herring in it’s talons
I captured this photo as the Bald Eagle flew directly overhead