Down in Dow where the eagles stay
PROTECTED CONTENT
If you’re a current subscriber, log in below. If you would like to subscribe, please click the subscribe tab above.
Username and Password Help
Please enter your email and we will send your username and password to you.
By Austin Andre
Submitted photo
An American bald eagle sits on sheets of ice floating along the Mississippi River.
Eagle Weekends have landed at Treehouse Wildlife Center in Dow, providing opportunities for close encounters of the eagle variety.
The winter season is known for its snow, ice, cold temperatures, and cloudy days. Yet, winter also brings along one of nature’s most majestic animals, the bald eagle.
Eagles are rare in this region, but from late December into early spring, eagles can be found all up and down the area’s many riverfronts. They can sometimes be difficult to spot, though, especially on colder days where staying outside isn’t viable.
However, the Treehouse Wildlife Center is offering a solution to that problem for those eager to snatch an up close look at these birds. The center is currently hosting Eagle Weekends as a part of the great rivers and routes eagle passport program.
Eagle Weekends have been an annual event in the area for several years, giving visitors a rare opportunity to be in close proximity to these elusive creatures as well as a guaranteed viewing of the eagles.
“People can come and get that up close and personal look,” said Interim director, Kelly Vandersand. “Since the enclosure allows people to get so close, we hope they can make that connection to nature.”
The center currently has six eagles in their enclosure, and staff members will be on hand to help educate visitors on the various facts and habits of eagles. There is no fee to come see the enclosures, but donations are always accepted and go back toward the sanctuaries.
Eagle Weekends started at the beginning of this month, and have been making their rounds in the region.
“Turnout has been great,” said Vandersand. “We are usually a hot spot on the program because you can always come see them at the center.”
Eagle Weekends are scheduled to run through the end of February, every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m until 2 p.m. There are many other animals to see at the center as well as many other learning activities and even a picnic area for families.
“It’s a way people are guaranteed to see eagles when it can be difficult in other areas,” said Vandersand.
Anyone interested in further information about Eagle Weekends can visit www.treehousewildlifecenter.com or call Treehouse at 618-466-2990.
