The 7 Best Places and Times to See Bald Eagles in Illinois

The founding fathers knew what they were thinking when they decided to choose the bald eagle as their national symbol. The bald eagle is a majestic bird of prey that exudes elegance. The eagle stands for freedom because it freely roams in the sky. It also stands for strength because it is one of the most powerful creatures on Earth. But where can we see bald eagles? During the winter, American bald eagles usually go to various states throughout the nation. Alaska has the most wintering bald eagles in the country, followed by Illinois.

Let’s take a look at the seven best places and times to see bald eagles in Illinois. The state is home to around 3,100 eagles during winter. Usually, the eagles arrive around December and they stay in the state until about March. The best times to go and eagle watch are any time, especially mornings.

Four Rivers

No matter where you are in Illinois, you’re bound to see eagles roaming around. But one of the best locations is Four Rivers. You can learn about eagles at the Four Rivers Education Center in Channahon. You can join several fun-filled activities, besides watching the eagles. But one word of caution, make sure you dress for the weather. It’s cold during winter and you must stay warm while outdoors.

Quincy

Located in central Illinois, Quincy is a small town that is perfect for bald eagle watching. Just imagine the town nestled next to the Mississippi River where you can watch the eagles in their natural state, soaring through the sky and catching fish. Every January, there’s also the Great River Eagle Days where you can watch eagle activity throughout the day. There’s even a weekend of fun-filled activities for the whole family.

Gladstone

The town of Gladstone is located in central Illinois and you can see eagle activity galore in this picturesque town. Gladstone sits next to the Mississippi River and the eagles love roaming around its waters, waiting for fish to appear to snatch them up. You can see eagles all around you, from the minute you park your car to the banks of the Mississippi. The sights will all be picture-perfect.

Quad Cities

The Quad Cities Region is filled with bald eagles, all communicating with each other and flaunting their wings. They’re ready to catch fish that float up, risking their lives. Hundreds of bald eagles line up around the Mississippi River and it’s truly a majestic sight to see. The Quad Cities Region is located in northern Illinois and if you want to discover eagle fun, head to Rock Island for the Eagle Days Environmental Fair.

Starved Rock State Park

One of the best places to see bald eagles is Starved Rock State Park, located in northern Illinois. You’ll see plenty of eagles roaming around, communicating with fellow eagles, and waiting for food. There are various trails to go hiking and see the eagles from different angles. There is also a sandstone bluff that is 125 feet high where you can see 360-degree views of the Illinois River and the bald eagles in their natural habitat. If you want guided tours, you can always book a ticket on the Bald Eagle Trolley Tours to learn more about these majestic creatures.

Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge

Wintertime is amazing as the bald eagles migrate south and you can see them in their splendor from various places in Illinois. Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge is about 4,000 acres and it’s all preserved land where eagles are free to soar in the sky and roam around. Located in southern Illinois, you can watch the eagles in their natural habitat, but also see the wildlife that lives on these lands. The best time to see eagles is in late January. There are even bald eagle nests for you to witness.

Pere Marquette State Park

Located in southern Illinois in the town of Grafton, Pere Marquette State Park is just filled with eagles during winter. Every January, the town of Graton holds its annual Bald Eagle Festival. So you can enjoy some fun-filled activities perfect for the entire family besides eagle-watching. Just make sure you bundle up because it will get cold outside.

Conclusion

And there you have it, these are the seven best places and times to see bald eagles in Illinois. If you’re thinking of trekking to the state, you’re going to be in luck during the winter because that’s where eagles like to migrate to for the season. You can go to any of these amazing places to see the eagles in their natural habitats. When you’re there, it will be an experience to remember as you witness the majestic creature, the national symbol of the United States, in its purest form.