The Eagles are Soaring at LBL

By Cassie Johnson

Outdoor 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.

“On all 232 cruises we run throughout the years, we have always seen eagles,” Masterson told me. “You will see two or three nests per tour , birds in full flight, and often during a hunt. After all, eagles are birds of prey. Guests watch in amazement as the eagles swoop down from the air to catch a fish from the water. It’s a great experience.”

The tours carry on regardless of fog, snow, or rain. If for any reason the boat has to cancel, each passenger will receive a full refund. To purchase tickets, contact Land Between the Lakes at 270.924.2020, Lake Barkley State Resort Park at 800.325.1708, Kenlake State Resort Park at 800.325.0143, or Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park at 800.325.0146.

The indoor quarters of the yacht are climate controlled, but of course, the outdoor space is not. Masterson recommends dressing appropriately for cold weather. “The colder the weather, the better the eagle viewing,” he said.

Where to View Eagles

Higher numbers of eagles are found along the northwestern bays of LBL. Popular viewing areas are Honker Dam, Kentucky Dam, Lake Barkley Dam, Empire Point, Boswell Landing, Pisgah Point, Smith Bay, and Fort Donelson National Battlefield located in Dover, Tennessee. On warmer days, look for eagles towards the points of the bays, close to the lake. On cold windy days, you can see them in the trees towards the backs of the bays.

What to Bring

Bring your binoculars, map, camera, directions to viewing areas, and warm clothes to enhance your adventure. Be prepared for winter weather conditions, such as snow, ice, or mud. Check the LBL Alerts page for important notices and potential closures before embarking on your eagle viewing journey. Please note the locations on the alerts page including information on maps and signage. Some of these viewing locations become wildlife refuges and are closed to human entry from November through March 15. Refuge closures provide needed sanctuary and undisturbed resting and feeding areas for waterfowl, shorebirds, and eagles.

Eagles are federally protected wildlife. Spectators must keep their distance from an eagle roost or nest at all times. Do not approach nesting birds, as the chicks may get scared and jump out of the nest into the water resulting in tragic circumstances.

“If you want to learn more about bald eagles, ask our friendly and knowledgeable naturalists at the nature station,” said Lewis. “They are very experienced in eagle watching and will help make sure your viewing experience is unforgettable.”

Additional Guided Eagle Watching Opportunities

Free “open house” style guided eagle viewing programs will be hosted by the WNS naturalists throughout the northern part of Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area on select Saturdays and Sundays from 1-3pm. during January and early February. All ages are welcome, and registration is not required. For a complete list of viewing program locations, dates, and times check the event calendar at landbetweenthelakes.us

Although the WNS is currently closed for the season and will reopen in March, you can connect with their naturalists through the WNS Facebook page or by calling 270.924.2299. More eagle viewing tips and a viewing map can also be found on the LBL website: landbetweenthelakes.us.