The Eagles Are Soaring at LBL By Cassie Johnson
O
utdoor activities in the winter may not sound very enticing. Cold temperatures and short daylight hours typically make us want to stay inside. However, winter is the best time for migratory bird watching. Bundle up and flock to Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area during December, January, and February to see many birds, including the majestic bald eagle.
Watch Winter Wildlife
“Winter is a great time to see and observe wildlife as it brings a whole host of bird species to our unfrozen waters,” said Carlin Lewis, Public Affairs Specialist with the USDA Forest Service at Land Between the Lakes. “January is the peak time for observing these amazing creatures. With the leaves off the trees, you get a front-row seat to see everything from eagles’ courtship flights, squadrons of pelicans, loons riding the chilly waves, and more!” Bald eagles prefer habitats away from heavily developed areas and where fish are plentiful, leading them to nest in forested lands along with large bodies of water. Land Between the Lakes (LBL) has 300 miles of forested shorelines that provide some of the best eagle viewing opportunities in the region. The Mississippi Flyway is a bird migration route stretching from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. LBL is near this route, making it prime eagle habitat. The Woodlands Nature Station at LBL has conducted naturalist-guided eagle viewing programs for the public since the mid-1980s. Due to growing popularity, the WNS and the state parks offer several different programs throughout the winter months.
By Land or Lake
Another way to experience bird watching is on the water. This is the 17th year that Captain Paul Masterson with Captain’s Quarters Yacht Charters will be offering eagle yacht tours in coordination with the state parks and LBL.
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Purchase Area Family Magazine
DECEMBER 2021 - JANUARY 2022 15
