Watching the eagles

Watch the gorgeous American bald eagles as they return to Kentucky’s western lakes. For more than three decades, the Kentucky State Parks have offered Eagle Watch Weekends, a chance to view the eagles from land and water and learn about our national symbol and other wildlife.

Tours take place at four resort parks during weekends in January and February on an excursion yacht, barges, pontoon boats, and by van, depending upon the location and tour. They are led by state park naturalists and Department of Fish and Wildlife biologists.

Ticket prices for the tours range from $20 to $50 a person. Most tours last between two and three and one-half hours. The weekends also include an evening program on birds of prey.

Registration is required for the Eagle Watch Weekends. Call the parks for details and fee information or visit www.parks.ky.gov/specialevents/default.htm.

The parks, phone numbers, and dates for the Eagle Watch Weekends are:

• January 18-19 and 25-26; February 15-16: Dale Hollow State Resort Park, (800) 325-2282

• January 18-20: Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, (800) 325-0146

• January 25-27: Lake Barkley State Resort Park, (800) 325-1708

• February 1-3: Kenlake State Resort Park, (800) 325-0143

Guests should bring warm clothes, rain gear, and binoculars. These trips can take place under extreme weather conditions. These resorts offer lodges, cottages, and restaurants. Guests attending Dale Hollow tours on a barge or pontoon need to bring their own personal flotation devices.