but didn’t see. To be able to see them and present a program that allows others to see them for the first time is wonderful.” The eagle viewing events are held rain or shine in the sleet or snow. The programs are conducted at the Ozark Chinquapin Nature Center on Highway F, across from campground #3, in Roaring River State Park. The events begin at 3 p.m. For more information on the eagle viewing programs, call the nature center at 417-8473742. Advanced registration is not required, but calls offering information on the number of individuals planning to attend an event are appreciated. Staff members also take time to answer questions. “Most of the common questions are, ‘When can I see eagles? Can we get close enough to get pictures? Do they take fish out of the hatchery?’” said Smith. “The answer to that one is no. They also want to know what to do if they find a dead eagle, and we tell them that they should leave it alone. “It is illegal to have even a feather from an eagle,” said Smith. “You should always call a conservation agent, because you must have permission just to have an eagle or any part of an eagle in your possession.” Individuals and families planning to attend an eagle viewing program at Roaring River State Park should dress for the weather. Even though a portion of the program is conducted indoors, the majority of the event will be held outside. “Bring binoculars, spotting scopes and cameras with high power zoom lens,” said Smith. “We don’t get very close to the
eagles, so a regular camera cannot do them justice. “Come planning to have a great time,” Smith added. The nature center will have one high powered scope available for attendees to use during the event. “I hope those who attend the eagle viewing events learn that we did positive and negative to influence the bald eagle,” said Smith. “I also hope they take the time to experience Roaring River State Park during the winter. The park is not just about trout fishing March through October.” In addition to bald eagles, program attendees often have the opportunity to see other wintering birds, including blue herons. Smith estimates that around a dozen eagles roost in the park during the winter months. Annual counts have ranged from five eagles to 70 eagles. “I love seeing them,” said Smith. “Growing up, eagles were something I heard about
40 | CONNECTION MAGAZINE
DECEMBER 2012