Fewer bald eagles at Wolf Lodge Bay

The spike in bald eagles congregating at Lake Coeur d’Alene appears to be over for the season.

Scott Robinson, U.S. Bureau of Land Management wildlife biologist, said only 67 eagles were counted in Wolf Lodge Bay on Tuesday, which was before the record snowfall hit the region.

That count is down from 127 tallied in the previous weekly survey and 88 two weeks ago.

Bald eagles from around the region are attracted by the kokanee that spawn in the bay from November through December.

A record 156 eagles were counted in December 2004. The highest counts usually occur the week before Christmas.

Spokane County

Mount Spokane trails groomed

All roads and parking areas have been cleared from this week’s snowfall, Mount Spokane State Park rangers reported Friday morning. Snowshoers and nordic skiers were making tracks.

Grooming on the park’s 25 miles of cross-country skiing trails has been slow as the snow cat struggles to pack the deep powder. Although no tracks had been set, the groomer was working Friday and rangers hoped to get the system packed before the weekend is over.

In Spokane, snowshoes will be available to rent for a wintry stroll through Manito Park on Sunday. Spokane Parks and Recreation Department staff will be at the Manito shelter off Grand Boulevard from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. with snowshoes to fit all ages.

Rental cost is $8. Reservations are recommended: www.spokaneparks.org and enter class No. 8222, or call (509) 625-6200.

BILLINGS

Sage grouse ruling to be delayed

Federal wildlife officials say a recommendation on whether sage grouse belong on the endangered species list could be delayed until next summer.

Grazing, oil and gas drilling, wildfires and residential development have taken a heavy toll on sage grouse in recent decades. But there’s been sharp disagreement over whether they are in imminent danger.

From staff and wire reports