Mark Twain Lake, January 26, 2009— If you like Eagles, have we got a
place for you. Get out and watch eagles feed in the open water below the dam.
Adult bald eagles, with their striking white heads and 7 foot wingspans, are
significantly larger than the similar birds seen in the area, such as
red-tailed hawks or turkey vultures. Their eyesight is five to six times
sharper than human’s sight. The life expectancy of wild eagles may be 30
years, although, some have lived 50 years in captivity.

	Nests are built near the top of a large tree.  Bald eagles add to
their nest each year to create the largest of any North American bird. The
record nest measured 20 feet deep, 10 feet wide and weighed two tons!

	Fish comprise the bulk of the bald eagle’s diet so Bald Eagles
usually use areas near waterways. Eagles fly 20 to 60 miles per hour in
normal flight and dive at more than 100 miles an hour for food.  The Overlook
and the Warren G. See South Spillway are both ideal places to observe eagles
this time of year. Remember the North Spillway is still closed for repairs.

	Be sure and make a trip to Mark Twain Lake and to look for the Eagles
in the Clarence Cannon Dam Spillway.  Early morning hours are primetime for
viewing.