In 1978 the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service set aside 4,200 acres in southern Oregon to enhance nesting alternatives for the magnificent bald eagle. The Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge consists of 4,200 acres, primarily old growth Ponderosa pine, incense cedar, and white and Douglas Fir.
The mature stands of trees in this particular refuge have open branching patterns of large limbs which allow easy eagle access and can support many birds. Located on the northeast slope, the roost also shelters these raptors from the harsh and prevailing winter winds. As many as 300 bald eagles have used the roost in a single night.
The Refuge has allowed undisturbed nesting habitat for several bald eagle pairs. Since its inception in 1978, the Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge has made it possible for these magnificent creatures to be seen up and down the wild and scenic Rogue River canyon. In fact, the photo above was taken last year by a Whitewater Warehouse client while rafting through the incredible Rogue River canyon.
The Refuge is closed to the public (to protect the privacy of the eagles) but from December through mid-March excellent opportunities are available outside the Refuge to observe early morning fly-outs of large numbers of bald eagles and other raptors.
