Hundreds Of Bald Eagles Visit The City Of Le Claire In Iowa Every Winter And It’s A Sight To Be Seen
Just a short while ago, seeing a bald eagle was almost impossible. Thanks to a nationwide conservation effort, though, these rare birds are no longer endangered, and if you know where to look, you can watch them hunt and nest right here in the Hawkeye State! Spot hundreds of bald eagles in Iowa this winter, as they flock to a stretch of the Mississippi river near the town of Le Claire, at the river Lock and Dam 14.
Every year, birdwatchers and nature lovers across the Midwest plan trips to Iowa, where an estimated 2,500 bald eagles begin to nest along the Mississippi River.
These mighty birds put on quite a show! They first arrive in November, and stick around through the winter as they begin to hatch and raise their young.
Iowans gather to watch bald eagles fish, nest, and fly over the Mississippi River. Lock and Dam 14, in Le Claire, is one of the most popular spots to park and watch!
Lock and Dam 14 was originally built in the 1920s and 1930s, and opened its first section in 1938. Since then, it's been a popular spot for eagle-eyed photographers!
While you're sure to see plenty of hunting birds if you hang out here, keep your eyes on the skies and see if you can find nesting pairs while they rest!
You don't have to travel to the river to spot these giant, majestic birds. You may even see one flying around the countryside in Iowa's driftless area!
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
