{"id":15601,"date":"2018-12-28T16:17:39","date_gmt":"2018-12-28T22:17:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/visitmo.com\/articles\/bald-eagles-put-on-a-show-in-missouri\/"},"modified":"2025-12-30T18:05:16","modified_gmt":"2025-12-31T00:05:16","slug":"bald-eagles-put-on-a-show-in-missouri","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.visitmo.com\/articles\/bald-eagles-put-on-a-show-in-missouri","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Guide to Eagle Watching in Missouri"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Back in the late 1970s, bald eagles were well on their way to extinction in the lower 48 states \u2013 it was rare to see one in the wild. Thanks to good environmental management in the years that followed, bald eagles have made a comeback.<\/p>\n

Missouri is known for its beautiful landscape and abundant wildlife. Because of this, there are many opportunities for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers to witness bald eagles in their natural habitat. In fact, there are about 600 active nests in the state.<\/p>\n\n\n

Best Times for Eagle Watching<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

December to February marks the peak of bald eagle viewing in Missouri. During winter, the Show-Me State is an eagle magnet as the birds move south following open water. Locks, dams and power stations along the state’s rivers and lakes, especially the Mississippi River, keep a portion of the water from freezing. This has a tendency to stun fish \u2013 eagles’ favorite food. So, bundle up, grab your binoculars, and head outside to catch a glimpse of our national symbol soaring through the skies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While bald eagle watching in Missouri is an awe-inspiring experience, it\u2019s important to be mindful of the environment and welfare of the birds. Observers should stay on designated paths, minimize noise and avoid behaviors that could stress or disrupt the eagles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eagle Days<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Eagle watching is a big draw for residents and visitors alike. The Missouri Department of Conservation hosts Eagle Days<\/a> events at locations throughout the state from December through February. Activities include special programs and eagle viewing with assistance from volunteers and spotting scopes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lake of the Ozarks Eagle Days<\/a> features live eagle programs, a photography contest and two locations for viewing eagles in the wild.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Places to See Bald Eagles in Missouri<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In addition to Eagle Days events, there are many places in Missouri to see eagles. Some of the best viewing spots include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n