Photographer Captures Wyoming Bald Eagle Convention

When I first moved to Wyoming, about 16 or so years ago, I went to visit Devils Tower.

Just a few miles from the tower I came across more bald eagles in one place than I had ever seen before.

What is this? A bald eagle convention? I asked.

Carmen Hayes Mickelson is an all-star contributor to the popular Facebook Page, Wyoming Through The Lens. 

She posted these December 2024 photos of another bald eagle convention at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains.

Looks like there is some important business to discuss - because - 'MERICA!

What could be more American than a convention of bald eagles at the base of the Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming?

Not much.

What do you think they talk about when they get together like this?

It must be high-level stuff.

Items of national security perhaps?

She's going to take another picture.

EVERYBODY LOOK LEFT!

I'm thinking any rodents in the area are too scared to look outside their dens.

These birds have quite an appetite.

Does anyone want to reduce the prairie dog population in their area?

Call a bald eagle convention.

On a more serious note, what makes them gather like this?

"Bald eagles gather together, particularly during winter months, primarily due to the availability of abundant food sources in specific locations, often near large bodies of water where they can find fish, leading to what's called a "communal roost" where they perch together overnight and sometimes during the day; this behavior is also thought to serve social purposes like pair bonding and communication among eagles this behavior is also thought to serve social purposes like pair bonding and communication among eagles" (U.S. Fish & Wildlife).

So they are not quite the loners that you might think them to be.

What a perfect photo opportunity.

Thank you Carmen Hayes Mickelson for posting these wonderful photos.

Honestly, look at that guy.

What do you think he's thinking?