Reserve Now—

21st Season Of Eagle-Watching

Starts This Month

SOUTHBURY — The public is now invited to make reservations to visit the Shepaug Bald Eagle Observation Area, located near the Shepaug Hydroelectric Station on the Housatonic River. The observation area will be open from December 28 through March 15 from 9 am to 1 pm on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, except New Year’s Day. Admission is free, but reservations are required.

The Shepaug hydroelectric facility is managed and operated by Northeast Generation Services Company (NGS), and owned by Northeast Generation Company, both unregulated subsidiaries of Berlin-based Northeast Utilities (NU). In addition to the services provided by NGS, volunteer support staff is provided from the Connecticut Audubon Society, and additional guidance is provided by the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection. Staff members are equipped with observation telescopes that will enable visitors to see the eagles in action and answer questions about America’s national symbol. The 2005-2006 season marks the 21st consecutive year that residents have been invited to view the eagles in their natural habitat.

The Shepaug Dam area is especially appealing to eagles in winter months when the station is in operation, because the turbulence below the dam keeps the water from freezing over and the fish provide a reliable food source for the hungry eagles. On average, about eight eagles feed at the dam daily; however, as with any wildlife observation, there is no guarantee eagles will be visible at any given time.

The viewing area is located about 1,000 feet away from the dam, which is enough distance to give the public the opportunity to view the eagles without disturbing them. “Visiting bald eagles are easily upset, and any disturbances during winter feeding can pose threatening situations for them. We’re delighted that we can protect these magnificent birds and at the same time provide a first-rate viewing opportunity for the public,” said Gary K. Smolen, NGS engineer and coordinator of the eagle observation program.

Since the observation area opened in 1985, close to 110,000 people have visited the site to view the wintering birds. “Connecticut Audubon is proud to participate in this program,” said Catherine Urbain, Connecticut Audubon Society. “This will be our fifth season at Shepaug and we are looking forward to assisting the thousands of visitors that are expected to visit the observation area,” added Urbain.

Reservations for individuals and groups can be made Tuesdays through Fridays from 9 am to 3 pm (excluding holidays) by calling toll-free 800-368-8954. In order to serve as many visitors as possible, only one reservation is permitted per family per viewing season. The shelter area is unheated, and visitors are advised to dress warmly. Given the limited number of viewing scopes available, visitors should also bring binoculars if possible.