Discover the world of eagles, ospreys virtually and along the Fox River Jan. 9
Celebrate the eagles of the Fox River Valley on Saturday, Jan. 9. Winter is a perfect time to see eagles in the wild as they congregate to feed near the open waters at dams along the Fox River.
An outdoor event, "In Search of Eagles," will be held at three dam sites on Saturday morning. In the afternoon, an online presentation will focus on the recovery of bald eagles and ospreys in Wisconsin.
It will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the dams in Algonquin, Carpentersville and McHenry.
Representatives from Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, McHenry County Conservation District and McHenry County Audubon will help search for eagles and identify other birds using the river.
Attendees are asked to bring and wear their face masks and bring their own binoculars if they have a pair, but binoculars are not needed to enjoy seeing birds in the wild. Maps to all locations are posted at MCCD.me/Eagles21.
From 1 to 2 p.m., McHenry County Conservation District is hosting "Eagles and Osprey, Back from the Brink," a virtual program that will be presented online via the Zoom platform.
Christian W. Cold, retired wildlife technician and educator for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Wildlife Management, will present an overview on the biology, life history and current status of bald eagles and ospreys in Wisconsin.
He will provide a historical account on the decline and subsequent recovery of these iconic fish-eating raptors which are valued as living barometers of the health of the environment.
The program content is appropriate for ages 14 or older. Preregistration is required at MCCD.me/EaglesOsprey21 or by calling (815) 479-5779.
The program is free for McHenry County residents and $2 for nonresidents. Access information will be sent to registrants via email.
In addition to the events planned for Jan. 9, the cooperating organizations are asking area residents to report where they are seeing eagles.
Sightings are being collected at tinyurl.com/eaglesightings as a resource for people who want to go out looking for eagles on their own.
Sightings and photos can be shared to the Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge at www.facebook.com/FriendsHackmatackNWR or at eBird.org.