The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) invites families, wildlife watchers and nature lovers to experience eagle-watching events across the state this winter. The best time to see the majestic bald eagle in Illinois is during the winter when the raptors seek open water areas for fishing. Certain Illinois state parks and locations, including Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle County and the Illinois State Museum’s Dickson Mounds Museum in Fulton County, host eagle-watching programs during this period. Visitors can enjoy the following eagle-watching events:

Bald Eagle Festival and Bird Show
Jersey County 
Jan. 18, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Visit the Pere Marquette State Park Lodge and Conference Center near Grafton to learn all about eagles. This crowd-favorite festival will feature hands-on educational activities, vendors, opportunities to view eagles and more.

Starved Rock Eagle Watch Weekend
LaSalle County
Jan. 24-25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Enjoy guided hikes, programs, activities and exhibits at four locations in Starved Rock Country: Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center, Starved Rock Lodge, Utica Village Hall Gym and Illinois Waterway Visitors. Go to www.enjoyillinois.com for more information.

Bald Eagle Days at Pere Marquette State Park
Jersey County
Jan. 30, Feb. 2, Feb. 3, Feb. 4, Feb. 18, Feb. 19, Feb. 20, Feb. 25, Feb. 26, Feb. 27, March 6
Pere Marquette State Park near Grafton will welcome visitors for its annual Bald Eagle Days program in January, February and early March. Programs will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the park’s visitors center. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 618-786-3323, ext. 1. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars.

For more information, visit www.enjoyillinois.com