McHenry Conservation District to host program on eagles

Representatives from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Friends of Hackmatack Wildlife Refuge, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and the McHenry County Audubon Society will be on hand from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at three locations along the Fox River to help you search for eagles - McHenry Dam, Algonquin Dam and Carpentersville Dam.

Volunteers will have scopes and binoculars available for use at each location. Visit the one closest to you, or visit all three. Maps to the locations are available at www.MCCDistrict.org.

After your outdoor excursions, enjoy free hot chocolate at the Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake, and learn more about eagles in our area through crafts and activities. Also, sign up for a special free presentation titled "Eagles of Illinois."

Part two of the day's event, "Eagles of Illinois," presented by the Illinois Raptor Center and sponsored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, is scheduled for 11 a.m. to noon at Prairieview Education Center in Crystal Lake.

People have been inspired by eagles for centuries. Religions, countries, armies and others have adopted the eagle as their symbol of power. You will also see other birds of prey that are commonly misidentified as eagles.

The program for all ages is free, but space is limited and registration is required. To register, go online at www.MCCDistrict.org and search for "Eagles of Illinois," or register by phone at (815) 479-5779.