SNOW HILL – Area residents will have a rare opportunity to appreciate America’s national animal in its natural environment this month as Pocomoke River State Park hosts three Eagle Watch events.
As it has for several years, Pocomoke River State Park will offer three Eagle Watch dates this month. They are scheduled for Jan. 17, 24 and 31. Participants will have the chance to view the birds as they cruise the Pocomoke River by boat.
“On one ride last year they saw 40 eagles,” said Kelly Beall, naturalist at the park. “It’s really fun.”
On each of the scheduled dates, the park will offer a three-hour program — starting at 2 p.m. — that features a hike, a chance to see the park’s Scales-N-Tales display and a one-hour boat ride.
Although it is one of the coldest times of the year, Beall said Eagle Watch was always set for January because that was when participants were most likely to catch sight of the birds since they were roosting.
“There’s a greater chance of seeing them in January,” she said.
Beall said the hike would give attendees the chance to explore the forest and look for roosting bald eagles while the Scales-N-Tales display would give them the opportunity to see one of the birds up close. The display also includes a turkey vulture.
“Scales-N-Tales features animals that can’t be released because of injury or imprint,” Beall said.
She said the highlight of the Eagle Watch for most people was the boat ride, which is an hour-long, several mile trip down the Pocomoke River from Milburn Landing. Ten people accompany the boat’s captain and a naturalist on the voyage, which usually provides passengers with glimpses of anywhere from 20 to 40 birds. Beall said a boat trip down the river was considered the easiest way to see a large number of eagles. She is looking forward to taking part for the first time.
“I’m very excited,” Beall said.
She says 14 people have already registered for Eagle Watch and she encourages anyone interested to contact her soon at 410-632-2566. Attendees can pay $30 each to participate in the entire program or can pay $10 for the hike and Scales-N-Tales and $20 for the boat ride.
Beall said the event usually attracts a good mix of people, ranging from youth groups to families.
Last year, interest was so high park staff created a waiting list.
“It’s a great opportunity for people to get outside,” Beall said.