Pierre Fradette, a biologist from Regroupement QuébecOiseaux, took an interest in an eagle reported by a park warden-patroller in 2001. Knowing that in Québec the Golden Eagle population is estimated at 65 breeding pairs, and that there are only about 50 known nesting areas, it is easy to understand the importance of finding out if the species nests in the park. With a team of park wardens, he conducted research at the park in the summer of 2007, hoping to locate the eagle’s nest.

Initially, potential nesting areas were identified based on cliff angle, since south-facing cliffs are more suitable for nesting. In the field, the research team watched these cliffs with and without binoculars for signs of activity. They particularly looked for long white or orange marks on the cliffs left by bird droppings. These marks often reveal the presence of a perch or nest. Once a potential site was identified, the team would activate a sound system that reproduced the bird’s call, which could be heard as far as 1 kilometre away. The call would be followed by a period of watchful waiting. Usually, if a bird is nearby, it cannot resist the call and flies to the sound’s origin, thus making itself more visible. Once the bird has been spotted, the team hopes it will reveal its nest location.

After completion of this project Pierre Fradette’s team enthusiastically confirmed the sighting of a Golden Eagle, a nest the bird used, and a secondary nest. This sighting confirms that the species is indeed nesting in the park. Given the importance of protecting this bird species, the team will be taking the necessary measures to maintain appropriate conditions for the pair, and will monitor the area to see whether or not the species will continue making it home as the years go on.