Watch bald eagles in their natural winter habitat here in Illinois

The fourth Saturday in January is designated as Eagle Day in Illinois

Every winter, Illinois presents visitors with the opportunity to see more than 3,100 bald eagles in their natural habitat – more wintering American bald eagles, in fact, than in any other state outside Alaska. The first eagles of the season are spotted in Illinois in December and remain in residence until they migrate back north in March, with January and February the optimal time for visitors to see eagles.

To accommodate visitors who want to take advantage of the opportunity to experience the bald eagles’ majesty and glory, towns and parks across much of the state will host specially planned eagle observation programs and exhibits throughout the prime-viewing season. For anyone interested in American history, bird-watching and the environment, bald eagle season in Illinois is a not-to-be-missed opportunity.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is pleased to highlight a number of eagle-watching locations and events planned for this winter:

Lake Shelbyville Eagle Day
February 11 (9:30-2:00)

  • Lake Shelbyville Visitor Center (off of Route 16 East of Main Dam) 9:30 – 2:00
  • Bald Eagle Program for Kids 10:00 – 10:30 (seating is limited)
  • Eagle Talk & Gawk (Q&A/pictures) 11:00 – 12:00
  • Birds of Prey Program 12:30 – 1:30 (seating is limited)
  • Tickets are first come, first served and can be reserved by phone or in person at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Shelbyville Project Office Monday – Friday from 8:00 – 4:30. Remaining tickets will be available the day of the event.
  • Free Admission
  • For more information call (217) 774-3951or http://www.mvs.usace.army.mil/Media/News-Releases/Article/643699/lake-shelbyville-eagle-day/