Bald eagles, birds of prey spread their wings in Geneva

Whether they're nesting at Mooseheart Child City and School near Batavia or soaring along the Fox River, bald eagles can be spotted from afar throughout the suburbs.

A few dozen visitors to Peck Farm Park in Geneva, however, got to see the majestic American icon and other birds of prey up close Sunday afternoon during a presentation by SOAR Illinois, which stands for Save Our American Raptors.

Besides providing educational opportunities for kids and families, the Earlville-based organization rehabilitates injured, sick or orphaned raptors, and, when possible, returns them to the wild, according to founders George and Bernadette Richter.

"Bald eagles are here to stay if we're smart about it and don't keep ruining this environment that we have," Bernadette Richter said, pointing to various environmental protection projects in which SOAR partakes. "We've only got a few shots left."

Bald eagles are very intelligent birds of prey, she said, and about 20,000 inhabit the continental U.S.

Deshka, a 16-year-old bald eagle named after the Alaskan river where she was found, was scheduled for euthanization when she arrived at SOAR 15 years ago. She had a broken wing and damaged tendons, meaning she would never be able to fly. But that didn't hinder Deshka's formidable, aggressive personality, which is common for a female eagle.

Now, Deshka will likely outlive her owners, Bernadette Richter said, as bald eagles can live to be about 50 years old in captivity.

During the presentation, the Richters also introduced a vulture named Bashful and a silver gyrfalcon named Mirage.

Seven-year-old Ellie Chihowski, who has an interest in birds, watched intently as the raptors flapped and spread their wings. She and her grandfather, Jim Skar, Campton Township residents, said it was fascinating to be so close to the birds.

"And you learn a lot," Skar said. "I liked seeing the bald eagle and having (SOAR representatives) explain what it does and what it's like."

Traci Wicks, director of marketing and public relations for the Geneva Park District, said the event is especially relevant because of all the bald eagles found throughout the Fox Valley.

"But if we see a bald eagle at all, it's way from a distance," she said. "To have them up close and personal is a unique experience for anybody. It's such a cool way for kids to see the magnificence of a bald eagle and have fun and learn at the same time."