Bald Eagle Observation Area Has Opened For The Season

SOUTHBURY — Reservations are being accepted for the 2010-11 winter season of the Bald Eagle Observation Area at the Shepaug Hydroelectric Dam. Admission, as always, is free but advance reservations are required.

Observation times this season will be Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, between 9 am and 1 pm, continuing to Wednesday, March 16.

To make reservations for individuals, families, and groups, call toll-free at 800-368-8954, Tuesdays through Fridays between 9 am and 3 pm.

This is the 26th season for the observation area, which is run by FirstLight Power Resources, a GDF SUEZ Energy North America company. FirstLight owns and operates several hydroelectric facilities, including Shepaug, along the Housatonic River.

“FirstLight is proud to open the Eagle Observation Area for a 26th straight year,” said Gary Smolen, longtime coordinator of the eagle observation program. “We’ve had approximately 130,000 visitors in that time and hope to have many more this year. The area is situated to help minimize any disruption to the visiting eagles so people can observe these majestic creatures in their normal habitat.

“The viewing season begins during the week of most school vacations, so we’d love to have kids with their families, seniors, and anyone having an appreciation of wildlife come and visit,” he continued. “It’s an experience they will not soon forget.”

Local experts report an average of eight eagles per day at the dam this time of year. Other birds seen in the area include red-tailed hawks, sharp-skinned hawks, goshawks, great blue herons, and a variety of waterfowl.

Specialists will be on site with high-powered telescopes to help visitors see the eagles in action and to answer questions about America’s national symbol. Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly and to bring binoculars if possible, given the limited number of onsite telescopes.