For decades, the bald eagle was an endangered species, but conservation efforts bolstered populations, particularly in Missouri.
Conservationists point to the insecticide DDT, which was banned in the 1970s, as one of the main threats to bald eagles. But now, more than 2,000 of them migrate into Missouri alone during the winter to feed at the state’s abundant rivers and lakes.
Bill Graham is a media specialist for the Missouri Department of Conservation. He says that conservation efforts are ongoing, and will continue to help bald eagle populations.
"We still want to protect them, enhance them, and grow them if we can," Graham said. "It's been a really beautiful conservation success in America and in the state of Missouri."
The MDC offers group "Eagle Days" throughout the winter and has tips for eagle watching on its website.
Here's a list of places in Missouri and Kansas where eagles might be found feeding or nesting:
- Clinton State Park Lake, Lawrence, Kan.
- Bowersock Dam, Lawrence, Kan.
- Longview Lake, Lee's Summit, Mo.
- Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge, Forest City, Mo.
- Smithville Lake, Smithville, Mo.
- Watkins Mill State Park, Lawson, Mo.
- Bean Lake, Marshall, Mo.
- Lock and Dam 24, Clarkville, Mo.
