Responses to CQ #7: Migrating in Daylight or Darkness? Many factors come together to influence eagle migration. What is the ideal situation for a successful migration to the summer nesting grounds? Let's take a look at our question: "Do migrating eagles travel during the daylight or under cover of darkness? Explain why." And your GREAT answers: The bald eagle travels during the daylight. They prefer to glide using the thermals that are created by the sun. The article said that they didn't even like to travel during the day if the sun wasn't out. Even if the conditions aren't perfect, the eagles still move back North to be here to have their nests ready. Daniel, Emily, TJ S, and Brittany, Grade Five, Ferrisburgh Central School, Ferrisburgh, Vermont We Add: Yes! Thermals are warm raising air created when the sun's rays heat up the earth below. They give the eagles a "lift" to soar. This helps them to conserve their energy during long migrations. Any fronts or weather conditions combined with strong tailwinds, are ideal for eagles. Clear, sunny days seem to really set up ideal conditions for migration. My name is Caleb and I am doing my Expert project on Bald Eagles. I am a fifth grader and I was discussing challenge question #7 with my classmates in Mr. Maanum’s room. Here’s what we came up with: Eagles probably migrate more during daylight hours because it is safer. At night they could fly into a tree or high line wires. Their eyes are not as large as that of an owl so their night vision is probably not quite as good as an owl’s would be. In the daylight they can use landmarks to help them navigate. Caleb, Park Rapids, MN We Add: In the daylight they also are able to watch for the presence of physiographic features, such as mountain ridges, river valleys, ocean cliffs, etc. that help them navigate to their nesting grounds. I think the eagles fly during the day because they eat fish and birds and need to see them. Shivani, Iselin Middle School/grade 7 We Add: Good thinking! An eagle uses a lot of energy during migration and must refuel. Copyright 2006 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form