The coming winter months are great for eagle watching in Missouri.
According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, now through February is an excellent time for spotting eagles across the Show-Me State. Thanks to its many rivers, lakes and wetlands, Missouri is one of the leading lower 48 states for bald eagle viewing, according to the conservation department.
“Each fall, thousands of these great birds migrate south from their nesting range in Canada and the Great Lakes states to hunt in Missouri,” MDC said in a news release. “Eagles take up residence wherever they find open water and plentiful food.”
More than 2,000 bald eagles are reported in Missouri during a typical winter.
One of the best places to look for eagles is perched in large trees near the water’s edge. They’re usually flying and fishing in the early morning.
“Be sure to dress for winter weather and don’t forget cameras and binoculars,” MDC said.
Here are upcoming MDC Eagle Days Events
As part of the season, MDC is hosting Eagle Days events around the state. Events include a variety of activities, including live eagle programs, exhibits, videos, and guides with spotting scopes. Some events require registration. Locations include:
- Smithville Lake at Paradise Pointe Golf Course Clubhouse in Smithville: Jan. 7, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Jan. 8, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Springfield Conservation Nature Center in Springfield: Jan. 21, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Jan. 22, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.
- Runge Conservation Nature Center in Jefferson City: Jan. 28, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Live eagle programs are at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. Registration is not required.
- MINGO (Puxico School’s FEMA building, viewing stations at Mingo and Duck Creek): Feb. 4, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Audubon Center at Riverlands St. Louis: Feb.11, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Preregistration is required for live-eagle program.
For more information, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov/events.
