Did you know that Bald Eagles, once on the endangered list, have been making a huge comeback here in the state of CT?!

The number of nesting pairs in the lower 48 United States has increased from less than 450 in the early 1960s, to more than 4,500 in the 1990s. In the Southeast, for example, there were about 980 breeding pairs in 1993, up from about 400 in 1981. Currently, there are an estimated 9,789 nesting pairs of Bald Eagles.

The Audubon Shop in Madison has been conducting winter Eagle Watch trips up to the CT River for 24 years. We're happy to report that Bald Eagles are going strong. Their 6-8 ft wingspan make Bald Eagles the largest predator in the US.

Winter is a perfect viewing time, and we often see them perched near the river, as they scan the water for their prey--typically waterfowl and fish.

Beginning Saturday Feb 4, 2012 The Audubon Shop in Madison will present its Twenty-fifth Annual "Eagle Watches on the Connecticut River". Leader Jerry Connolly of The Audubon Shop will help participants spot eagles from a variety of locations on this land-based trip along the shore of the river, and will discuss the bird's natural history. A variety of wintering birds will be seen.

Dates include (Saturdays) Feb 4, 11, 18, 25, and Mar. 3, 2012.

Tickets are $20.00, and include a soup & sandwich lunch at Oliver's Taverne in Essex.

Pre-registration is required. 203.245.9056

Binoculars are recommended and available for rental.

Space is limited.

Call the shop for tickets and information. 203.245.9056