It’s not uncommon to spot wild animals in Kentucky, but there’s still that sense of thrill that comes along with seeing a creature in its natural habitat. Whether it’s a river otter while kayaking or even a bear when hiking in Eastern Kentucky, spotting wildlife in the Bluegrass State is always exciting in its own way. One distinct and often recognizable bird that’s been growing in numbers over the years is the bald eagle. This emblem of our nation can now be found throughout most of Kentucky, but there are certain times and places to spot bald eagles in Kentucky if you want to try and track them down.

The beautiful bald eagle has not always been abundantly present in Kentucky, but it can now be found in almost every county of the state. While it's been taken off the federal list of threatened and endangered species, these animals are still protected and monitored very closely.
Facebook/Lake Barkley State Resort Park
Bald eagles are most commonly seen in Kentucky during their migration season, which is typically September through March. You'll find that several Kentucky State Parks host events in both fall and winter that showcase bald eagles and how to find them.
Facebook/Kenlake State Resort Park
These events have come to be in more recent years since bald eagles were not always as easy to find. The photo below is from 1989 and shows 7-week-old bald eagles being released and resettled near Dale Hollow Lake.
Flickr/US Army Corps of Engineers

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During the winter months, bald eagles nest near large bodies of water so they can regularly fish. Your best bet to spot an eagle in the sky or resting in its nest is near these lakes and rivers, especially in western Kentucky where they are most prevalent.
Facebook/Kenlake State Resort Park
Many of the state parks in this area host events and specials, particularly in January and February. Check out Lake Barkley, Kenlake, and Kentucky Dam Village specifically to plan for these events.
Facebook/Lake Barkley State Resort Park
If you want to witness these beautiful birds in person, you are most likely to see them near large bodies of water throughout winter. But always keep your eyes peeled and look to the treetops for nests, as more and more bald eagles are calling all areas of Kentucky home.
Paul Souders/Digital Vision via Getty Images

Yes, indeed, there are bald eagles in Kentucky and they grow in number each year. They are also spotted in areas of Kentucky that you may not expect, so be sure to look to the sky and the treetops the next time you’re out exploring and see if you can witness these majestic birds in person. Have you seen bald eagles in Kentucky? Where was the most surprising sighting? Let us know in the comments!

For more information on bald eagles in Kentucky, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources website and also check out Kentucky State Parks for any upcoming events.

And for more incredible wildlife in Kentucky, take a look at where you can see bison and elk up close.

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