The Bald Eagle – our country’s national symbol – will be wintering in Missouri and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites people to discover nature through Eagle Days events and by watching bald eagles around the state.
From December through February, Missouri’s winter eagle watching is very popular. Because of Missouri’s big rivers, many lakes, and abundant wetlands, each fall, thousands of eagles migrate south from their nesting range in Canada and the Great Lakes states to hunt in Missouri. Eagles take up residence wherever they find open water and plentiful food.
More than 2,000 bald eagles are typically reported in Missouri during winter.
Watch for eagles perched in large trees along the water’s edge. Early in the morning, find them flying and fishing. Be sure to dress for winter weather and don’t forget cameras and binoculars. Here are some hot spots around the state for winter eagle viewing, including one in our local area – The Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge – located south of Sumner. This has been a popular viewing spot for eagles and other birds.