BLOOMINGTON — Nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers are flocking to Monroe Lake this weekend for the annual celebration of bald eagles and local birdlife. The event, which runs from Friday, February 13, through Sunday, February 15, offers a mix of guided hikes, educational workshops, and self-guided tours during the peak of eagle-viewing season.
Most activities are centered at the Paynetown State Recreation Area (SRA), though several specialized hikes will take place at other locations around the lake. Organizers urge attendees to check the schedule carefully, as several popular sessions have already reached capacity.
ALL WEEKEND
- Self-Guided Bald Eagle Driving Tour: Create your own self-guided driving tour during the peak of eagle-viewing season! Consult our online map for the best viewing locations and times, grab a pair of binoculars and a warm drink, and head out to Monroe Lake on your own schedule to look for eagles. Click here for the online, interactive map.
- Warming Station: The Activity Center at Paynetown SRA (next to the beach) will be open on Friday, Feb. 13, from 4 to 6 p.m., and on Saturday, Feb. 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Take a break while searching for eagles or stop by between scheduled programs. Complimentary hot tea, hot cocoa, and snacks – also winter birding checklists and property maps.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13
- 10 a.m. Bottomlands Birding Hike, Click here for details & registration (FULL, waitlist available)
- 1 p.m. Bald Eagle Hacking Tower Hike, Click here for details & registration (free, reg. by 2/12 at 4 p.m.)
- 5 to 6 p.m. Sunset Eagle Watch, Click here for details (free, no reg. needed!)
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14
- 10 a.m. Paynetown Birding Walk, Click here for details (free, no reg. needed!)
- 12:45 p.m. Photographing Eagles (and other birds!) at Monroe Lake, Click here for details (free, no reg. needed!)
- 2 p.m. LIVE Bald Eagle Program (FULL, no walk-ups allowed)
- 3 p.m. Winter Wings: Birding Basics for Beginners, Click here for details (free, no reg. needed!)
- 4 p.m. LIVE Bald Eagle Program (FULL, no walk-ups allowed)
- 5 to 6 p.m. Sunset Eagle Watch, Click here for details (free, no reg. needed!)
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15
- 10 a.m. Fairfax Birding Hike, Click here for details & registration (FULL, waitlist available)
- 10:30 a.m. Owls in Love, Click here for details (free, no reg. needed!)
- 12:30 p.m. From Head to Toe: Building a Bird, Click here for details (free, no reg. needed!)
