Eagle watching back at Shepaug Dam
Eagle watching at Shepaug Dam
Published 5:18 pm, Saturday, January 5, 2013
SOUTHBURY -- From now until mid-March visitors to the Bald Eagle Observation Area at the Shepaug Dam can observe the once near-extinct bird of prey in its natural habitat.
Observation times will be Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This is the 28th season for the observation area, which is run by FirstLight Power Resources.
"It's amazing to think that we have been here for nearly three decades and have welcomed over 136,000 visitors from throughout the U.S. and the world to the site," said Gary Smolen, longtime coordinator for the eagle observation program. "We are fortunate that the Shepaug Dam and the surrounding areas are situated in such a way that minimizes disruption to the eagles."
More InformationBald eagle information: The bald eagle is not bald. Rather, the adult has a gleaming white, feathered head, which contrasts dramatically with its dark brown body and huge yellow bill. A white tail and massive yellow legs and feet complete the unmistakable adult plumage. During this species' first four years as an immature bird, the plumage is mottled brown and white over the entire body, especially underneath. Both head and tail are mainly dark during these years. Plumage is similar for males and females. Females, however, are larger than males. A large female might be 38 inches long and weigh 14 pounds, while a small male might only be 28 inches long and weigh 6.5 pounds. The eagle's wingspan averages just under 7 feet. (Information from the National Audubon Society, Inc., website)
Bald eagles have made a remarkable recovery, from near extinction in the lower 48 United States in the middle of the 20th century.
Some years, visitors to the Shepaug observation area have spotted 10 or more eagles in a single day as well as a variety of other birds, including red-tail and sharp-shinned hawks, goshawks, great blue herons and various waterfowl, Smolen said.
Visitors should dress for the weather and bring binoculars, if possible, since there is a limited number of onsite telescopes.
The event is free of charge, but advance reservations are required.
Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-368-8954 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Thursday through Friday.