Bald Eagle Viewing in Madison, Wisconsin
Viewing Bald Eagles
The American Bald Eagle may be our national bird, but depending upon where you live in the US, sightings of this bird can be rare if not impossible.
In Wisconsin, where I live, there are opportunities for sightings, but the best viewing takes place in nearby Sauk City and Prairie du Sac along the Wisconsin River. Located only 18 miles northwest of the capitol city of Madison, Sauk Prairie, as the two communities are commonly referred to, offers excellent viewing opportunities from late December through late February.
The Ferry Bluff Eagle Council, a grass roots non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of the Bald Eagle, sponsors the annual Eagle Days. In 2011, Eagle Days will take place on Saturday and Sunday, January 14 and 15. This event will feature educational opportunities such as live raptor shows, children's activities and live entertainment. From 10:00 am until 5:00 pm on January 15, the Wollersheim Winery will host a wine tasting event.
The council offer bus tours every Saturday for $5.00 per persons over 5 years of age. Those 5 and younger ride for free. The tour takes guests through the known roosting areas and other areas in which eagles sightings are likely to occur such as the dam at VFW Park and the Eagle Overlook station. Council members are on hand on Saturdays and Sundays to help guests use the spotting scopes at the Overlook and to answer questions.
There is a tiny patch of land in the middle of the river near the Overlook upon which at least one or two eagles are routinely spotted. They provide excellent opportunities for photographs.
While you are in Sauk City, stop into any of their small local diners for homemade lunch and dessert or a coffee to warm yourself. Staff are always friendly an accustomed to guests that pass through only to view the eagles.
If you're heading back to Madison, you may also pop in to the Wollersheim Winery. Tours and tasting events are often available. You can also purchase a few bottles to take home and sip later as you review your photos from the trip.
For more information about tours, the preservation efforts of the council, or about the majestic bald eagle, visit www.ferrybluffeaglecouncil.org.
Eagle Overlook in Prairie du Sac
Young Bald Eagle
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