Winter is fast approaching. Beginning in December and continuing through February, Missouri’s winter eagle watching is spectacular. Because of Missouri’s many rivers, lakes, and wetlands, it is one of the leading lower 48 states for bald eagle viewing.
Every fall, these national birds 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. With the Eleven Point River running through Oregon County and the abundance of local ponds, Oregon County is a favorite place for eagles.
Where To See Eagles
You can see eagles perched in large trees along the water’s edge. Early in the morning, you can find them flying and fishing. You may need binoculars to see them fly. However, they can be spotted in trees in the nearby woods. A camera is a good item to bring outdoors.
MDC (Missouri Department of Conservation) has generated a list of the best places in the state to see eagles. While they are abundant along the Mississippi River, one can usually see eagles near home every year.
Diet
An eagle’s diet dictates where it goes. An eagle eats fish, small mammals, reptiles, and carrion (dead animals). With dead deer carcasses discarded on public property, eagles are quick to swoop in and feast.
More than 2,000 bald eagles are typically reported in Missouri during winter.
