Reservations Available

 For Free Bald Eagle Viewing  

Reservations are now being accepted for the 2011-12 winter season at the Bald Eagle Observation Area at  Shepaug Dam in Southbury.

 Admission is free, but advance reservations are required. To make reservations for individuals, families, and groups, call toll-free 800-368-8954, between 9 am and 3 pm on Tuesdays through Fridays. 

Bald eagle observation times this season will be Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays between 9 am and 1 pm. The 2011-12 season will open December 28 and continue to March 14. Please note the observation area will be closed on New Year’s Day. 

This will be the 27th season for the observation area, which is run by FirstLight Power Resources.  FirstLight is the largest owner of hydroelectric facilities in Connecticut, located mostly along the Housatonic River.

“FirstLight is thrilled to open up again and we look forward to building upon the more than 130,000 total visitors we have had in the nearly three decades of the observation area,” Gary Smolen, the coordinator of the eagle observation program, said in a statement. “The area is situated to help minimize any disruption to the visiting eagles so people can observe these majestic creatures in their normal winter 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. It’s an experience they will not soon forget,” Mr Smolen added.  

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-tail hawks, sharp-shinned hawks, goshawks, great blue herons, and a variety of waterfowl.

Specialists will be at the observation 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.

In the case of current or anticipated inclement weather, visitors are urged to call 860-895-6468 to verify whether or not the viewing area is open before arriving on the reserved viewing day. Visitors closed out due to bad weather must recontact the reservation line, 800-368-8954, to reschedule their visit.

Additional information is available at FirstLightPower.com/eagles/viewing_Shepaug.