A Canadian national park is temporarily opening this holiday season to give visitors the gift of a rare opportunity to spot an eagle seldom seen on this side of the globe. Terra Nova National Park, Canada’s easternmost national park in Newfoundland, has announced the surprising presence of a Steller’s sea eagle. Known to have one of the largest wingspans among birds of prey, measuring approximately eight feet, the Steller’s sea eagle is considered about 25% larger than its more common cousin, the bald eagle. Typically found across Japan, the Russian Far East, and the Korean Peninsula, fewer than 5,000 of these magnificent creatures exist worldwide, and the eagle currently residing at Terra Nova is the only one known to be present in the Western Hemisphere.
Despite the park's usual winter closure, officials have opened the Newman Sound Day Use Area Road for public viewing from December 21 to 31, barring Christmas Day and Boxing Day, between 11 am and 4 pm. This initiative allows nature enthusiasts to catch a glimpse of this impressive species, as the rest of the park remains closed during this time of year.
Many birdwatchers and photographers have eagerly sought to observe this unique visitor. Newfoundland photographer Sandra Moss was among the fortunate few who managed to spot the eagle early last week. “It’s just amazing. It’s so unique. It’s huge,” she enthused. She described the feeling of witnessing such a rare sighting as awe-inspiring, recalling her reaction as she returned to her car with hundreds of photographs.
Moss, who had previously documented the eagle's movements via other sightings, initially spotted the bird at Trinity Bay last year. This year, she took action after hearing reports of its new location in Terra Nova National Park. “I can’t explain how exciting it is,” she mentioned, expressing her amazement at realizing the bird had chosen to call the park home for the winter.
Specialists and avid bird enthusiasts recognize Steller’s sea eagles for their distinctive features—most notable are the impressive white stripes over their wings, along with their formidable hooked beaks. These birds are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, which places significant importance on sightings like the one at Terra Nova National Park.
Typically, these eagles feast on fish, crabs, shellfish, and sometimes even small mammals or young seals, showing their prowess as top predators. Sightings of Steller’s sea eagles on the East Coast of North America have been increasing, urging conservationists and wildlife lovers to monitor and protect such magnificent birds.
The special opening has been well-received, with many expressing gratitude for the chance to witness the spectacular sea eagle. Park officials have confirmed the eagle's presence through social media updates and newsletters, which have created considerable excitement among the public and birdwatching communities.
During the park's limited winter hours, enthusiasts and families come equipped with cameras to catch sight of the eagle soaring majestically or sitting regally on the tree branches. “He’d probably take you and the pet,” Moss humorously remarked, highlighting the size and hunting capabilities of this remarkable bird.
Birdwatchers come from far and wide to experience this rare event, showcasing the community spirit among wildlife enthusiasts. For many, the opportunity to glimpse such a rare inhabitant of the skies raises awareness about the importance of wildlife preservation and the need to protect vulnerable species.
The eagle’s presence also emphasizes the natural beauty of Newfoundland and the diverse wildlife inhabiting the region, showcasing how unique events like this can hold significant educational and cultural value for both residents and tourists. The park’s proactive measures to open up during the winter for eagle watching has set a precedent for how national parks can adapt to highlight remarkable wildlife occurrences, even during typically quiet seasons.
The anticipation surrounding the Steller’s sea eagle remains palpable, with daily visits adjusting depending on weather conditions, ensuring safe viewing for park guests. Terra Nova National Park's efforts to accommodate visitors during this unusual circumstance exemplify the fusion of conservation and recreational opportunity.