Group of bald eagles in Alaska, USA

© Marion Vollborn/Minden Picture

Eagles assemble!. Alaska Bald Eagle Festival, USA

Each November, as many as 4,000 bald eagles descend on the Chilkat River near the small town of Haines, in the US state of Alaska. They are there to feed on chum and coho salmon that have died shortly after spawning in the ‘flats’ of the river. It’s a feast for birds and birdwatchers alike, as the raptors tear into a never-ending supply of tasty fish. It’s the largest congregation of eagles in the world, and as such is celebrated by the Alaska Bald Eagle Festival. The event features live raptor demonstrations, educational programmes, guided hikes and live music.