PHOTOGRAPHING EAGLES AT CONOWINGO DAM

ABOUT THE DAM

As the winter chill sets in at the Susquehanna River in northern Maryland, the rush of water signals the start of the feeding frenzy as sirens blare and gates open, sending tons of fish through the powerful turbines of the dam. It’s a sight not to be missed for any nature enthusiast.

The air is filled with excitement and anticipation as photographers gather to capture their best shots of these magnificent birds. As you stand among fellow photographers, cameras ready, you’ll hear calls of “incoming” as an eagle swoops down towards the river. Circling above, they scan the waters below before diving down with outstretched claws to catch their prey. And once the first fish is seen, the real action begins.

Like a scene from a wild documentary, other birds in the area swoop in to try and steal the prized catch from the eagle’s grasp. Sometimes, two birds become entangled in a fierce battle over one fish, soaring above the river in a daring aerial display. It’s a thrilling sight that showcases these incredible creatures’ beauty and ferocity.

The majestic Conowingo Dam in Maryland stands tall and proud, a feat of human engineering nestled against the lush backdrop of nature. It is a spectacular photography location, especially in November when numerous eagles gather here. Skilled photographers worldwide flock to this spot, eagerly awaiting the perfect shot of these magnificent birds. As the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the Dam and its surroundings, the scene becomes breathtaking and worthy of capturing in film or pixels.

HOW TO GET TO CONOWIINGO DAM

To reach the Dam, a simple journey awaits. One can take the I-95 North toward the Delaware Memorial Bridge from the bustling city of New York. Cruise through the picturesque countryside, past the charming towns and verdant fields, and soon, you’ll find yourself at the entrance to the Dam. As you approach, the towering structure looms large against the horizon, its presence a testament to human ingenuity and the ability to harness nature’s power. The Dam stretches across the Susquehanna River.

THE BEST TIME TO GO TO SEE THE EAGLES

The best time to visit Conowingo Dam to see these magnificent birds of prey is in autumn, particularly in November. During this time, the eagles gather along the river to prepare for their annual migration south. The Dam provides a haven for these majestic creatures, offering ample food for the eagles. We like to pick days above 40 degrees. It’s hard to be outside all day when it goes below. We want an excellent parking spot, so we go into the car every few hours and warm up, so again 6:30 or 7:00 a.m. arrival is best.

PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR TO BRING

Of course, the most essential gear is your z om lens. We highly suggest a minimum of 400mm. If you don’t have one, you can rent one. Bring a tripod to stabilize your camera and a monopod for stability while shooting handheld. It’s also wise to bring extra memory cards, batteries, and lens cleaning supplies to ensure you capture every breathtaking moment without interruption.

WHAT ELSE TO BRING

Food, snacks, water, and a comfy chair or camping stool to set up in one spot for extended periods. Binoculars, a hat, gloves, and layers of clothing are also essential, as the weather can be unpredictable, and the viewing areas can be exposed to the elements—hot pockets for your shoes and gloves. 

Armed with your camera gear, you will embark on this exhilarating journey to capture the beauty of the Conowingo Dam and its avian visitors.