ST CHARLES COUNTY – Our nation’s favorite raptors are flapping their wings to fish in our area and and if you want to see the nation’s mascot, you’ll have to brave the frigid temps too.
Bald eagles flock to Missouri in the winter due to its large rivers, lakes, and wetlands, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDOC).
As they migrate to the area, families flock to events to catch the majestic sight of these feathered friends. For those that can not or do not wish to attend an event but still wish to see bald eagles, the Missouri Department of Conservation recommends getting out early in the morning and scan large trees near lakes and rivers. Some of their favorite viewing spots may be found here.
Jan. 18, 2025
Eagle Saturday: 301 Riverlands Way, West Alton, Illinois, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This event is also on Jan. 25 and Feb. 1.
With a donation visitors may enjoy the Swan and Eagle walk, a guided tour around the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary on a paved trail to view the overwintering birds. Event hosts recommend brining binoculars, comfortable clothing, and footwear for the outdoors. Attendees may learn about Bald Eagles and Trumpeter Swans. Sessions are at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.
For $10, visitors may meet and greet Liberty, a bald eagle presented by the World Bird Sanctuary. Sessions are at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m.
A campfire where donators may enjoy s’mores is also an option.
Eagle Explorations: 801 Strodtman Road, Saint Louis, Missouri, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
MDOC says the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area is a great place for Bald Eagle viewing in winter. In the classroom building, MDOC will teach some interesting facts about the big birds before beginning the drive. After the drive, visitors will take a short walk and spend time outside. Register for a spot here.
Jan. 19, 2025
Self-guided Sunday: 301 Riverlands Way, West Alton, Illinois, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This event is also on Jan. 26, Feb. 2 and Feb. 9.
Visitors may use the center scopes or their own devices to view wild eagles and swans. Additionally, there are DIY crafts, local vendors, education and art engagement.
Jan. 25, 2025
Grafton Eagle Meet and Greet: 950 E. Main Street, Grafton, Illinois, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (rescheduled from Jan. 11)
For free, visitors can see an American bald eagle live at the Grafton Visitor’s Center. Boasting a wingspan of over 7 feet, and weighing in as much as 14 pounds, the meet and greet gives visitors a chance to see these raptors up close and learn more about them. The World Bird Sanctuary is providing the eagle for viewing.
Jan. 28, 2025
Clarksville Eagle Days: 702 S 2nd St, Clarksville, MO, Clarksville, Missouri from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event is also on Jan. 29.
Visitors can enjoy live eagle shows, vendors, crafts, and movies. Naturalist will help anyone searching for eagles by using high powered spotting scropes at the Clarksville Riverfront Park.
In addition to eagle watching, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park rangers and volunteers will offer free public tours of the lock every half hour beginning at 10:30 a.m.
Jan. 29, 2025
Virtual Bald Eagles in Missouri: Register a spot at this link, the event is from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
This is the only virtual option on our list. Wendy Lott will discuss the history and characteristics of bald eagles in Missouri which has one of the largest populations of nesting birds in the U.S., and the number continues to grow.
Jan. 30, 2025
Pere Marquette Bald Eagle Days: 13653 Lodge Blvd. Grafton, IL, opens at 8:30 a.m. This event is also on Feb. 4, 7, 11, 21, 24, 26, 28, and March 7.
Pere Marquette State Park will present informative programs on Bald Eagles. Attendees will learn what to look for in distinguishing young eagles versus mature eagles, what eagles eat, why they love Missouri, and more. Reservations are required for the programs, but they are free. Call 618-786-3323 to reserve a spot.
Feb. 8, 2025
Eagle Days with Missouri Department of Conservation: 301 Riverlands Way, West Alton, Illinois, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Trained volunteers will help visitors view eagles through spotting scopes. The World Bird Sanctuary will provide live Bald Eagle programs so attendees can see one up close and learn about about the large raptors.
Presentations are at 9:15, 10, 11:30, 12:15, 1:45, and 2:30.
Meet and greets are at 10:45 and 1.
Children and adults alike may enjoy hopping inside the life size bald eagle nest replica. Also, they may enjoy posing like an eagle against the giant eagle wingspan banner. Partnership organizations will feature staffed educational tables for people to interact and learn from.
