 Bald Eagle Watching in Arkansas1 Jan - 28 Feb 2010 (annual)Arkansas is probably best known by most for its one-time governor, Bill Clinton, but there is a more beautiful creature that this southern state is associated with, the bald eagle, commonly see wintering in the state. Reasons to marvel at this majestic air creature include: the ability to swoop at 100 miles per hour from a height of 500 feet to pluck a fish from moving water, performing aerial somersaults to attract a mate, and sporting a mighty wing span average of 7 feet.
Adult Bald Eagles are hard to miss. With their white heads, white tails, brown bodies and graceful moves, they cut an awesome profile in the blue skies above the Arkansas River. They arrive in late October in the wake of waterfowl, returning to Southern Canada and the Great Lakes in mid March. The best time to really appreciate them is during the very cold January mornings - when they dive amongst the thermal updrafts.
Unless you know what you are looking for and when, it's best to investigate and find some local experts to take you out to eagle spot. During the winter months there are plenty of volunteers on the scene, collecting data and ensuring the eagle doesn't disappear. Some areas along the Arkansas River are ideal for eagle watching -in particular are the Corps of Engineers' park just below Dardanelle Lock and Dam; Holla Bend NWR near the town of Dardanelle; and south of Atkins on State Highway 105 paralleling the river for about five miles near Galla Creek Wildlife Management Area.
Wherever you are, make sure you take a warm hat and a decent set of binoculars! |
