Utah also has a large number of golden eagles. And, where bald eagles are transient birds, golden eagles tend to be permanent residents. And, despite what people may think, said Walter, "The two are not close. Once in a while you'll see a single golden with bald eagles, but it's rare. They're competitors for food. In fact, it's not uncommon for a group of bald eagles to steal a kill from a golden eagle."

Eagles were first placed on the endangered list in 1978 after their numbers fell dangerously low, a result of diminishing prey, loss of habitat, the use of lead pellets used to hunt waterfowl and then ingested by the birds, and the wide use of DDT pesticide, which reduced the amount of calcium in the birds' eggshells.

It was estimated that in 1963 there were only 417 nesting pairs of bald eagles in the lower 48 states. Now it is estimated there are more than 7,000.

One of the main food sources for the birds here in Utah are carp found in the marshes along the Great Salt Lake. But they will also eat everything from rabbits to waterfowl to even domestic animals.

During the winter, bald eagles are largely scavengers, feasting on deer and elk winter kill.

Even though taken off the endangered list, eagles will still be protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Gold Eagle Protection Act.

The nice part about viewing eagles is that as long as people keep a reasonable distance, the birds will remain still and even fly close by, so visitors are able to get excellent views of the giant birds.

And the best time to view bald eagles in large numbers, said Walters, "Is right now and on into March."

To see the greatest number of eagles, plan on visiting between 2 and 4 p.m.

"In midafternoon, the eagles start flying to trees to roost for the night," Walters said. "If you want to see the greatest number of eagles, mid- to late afternoon is usually the best time."

Viewing sites and how to get there

Fountain Green State Fish Hatchery, located east of Nephi.

Split Mountain/Green River, located north of Jensen and below the Dinosaur Quarry in Dinosaur National Monument. It is also possible to view other wildlife, such as prairie falcons, hawks, mule deer, river otters, pheasants, turkeys, sandhill cranes, porcupines, mergansers and Canada geese.

Rush Lake Ranch, located on the Minersville highway, state road 130, about 12 miles north of Cedar City.

Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area, located about 10 miles northwest of Corinne. To reach the WMA, take Exit 365 off of I-15 and travel west to 6800 West, then head north to 6800 North and then west to the management area.

Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area, located on the west side of Farmington at 1325 W. Glover Lane (925 South). Take exit 325 off I-15. Turn left on Park Lane and travel west to Clark Lane at the first traffic light and turn right. Travel west to the 1525 West, and turn South to Glover Lane, and turn right to 1700 West.