I Am Eagle Watch Me Soar : Eagle Days Are Here Again in Grafton Illinois

It was a rigidly cold day in early February. The bluffs protruding out over the water along the river in Alton, Illinois looked like stark reminders of a long ago ice age. Everything seemed to be a shade of dirty brown or gray. Then you begin to see the dark images floating in the air. At first they seemed like vultures circling, waiting to swoop down to find something in the cold snow. You raise your binoculars to get a better look and you then realize that you are looking at the magnificent American Bald Eagle. Each year at this time they come to visit the cliffs near Alton, just over the river from St. Louis in Illinois.

Every January, experts estimate that some 1,000 eagles will migrate to the region, many reclaiming their winter nests along the Great River Road from Alton to Grafton and Pere Marquette. Through the middle of February, the second largest population of American bald eagles in North America can be found in the region. During January, visitors can plan their own eagle watching adventures, or take part in one of the many eagle meet and greet and touring activities that take place during the season. The Alton Regional Convention and Visitor's Bureau will be partnering with the World Bird Sanctuary for the "Eagle Meet and Greet" every Saturday in January from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Alton Visitor's Center located at 200 Piasa Street. (If you're wondering why a lot of things in the area are named Piasa, it comes from another local attraction: the Piasa bird. The Piasa bird is a local legend that dates back to the time Indians inhabited the area. Supposedly it was a huge flying creature that swooped down and took people away until one of the local Indian chiefs killed it.)

For those of you who want to embark on their own eagle adventure, a good place to start is along the River Road headed towards Pere Marquette State Park. Start out early on the weekend and take advantage of the views and cozy comfort of the Lodge at the park. The Lodge features a walk-in size stone fireplace, an enormous chessboard in the lobby, and spectacular views of the river. You can also enjoy a delicious brunch. If you want to make eagle watching into a weekend getaway, then take advantage of one of the many eagle specials and discounts at one of the hotels or bed and breakfasts in Alton, Grafton, or nearby Elsah. If you really want to experience what the eagles might be dining on, then there are several restaurants in the area that specialize in preparing local fish.

If you're looking for a professionally guided eagle tour or a more educational experience, there are many tours and events happening in the region during January and February. For more information visit www.VisitAlton.com

There was a time when the great American eagle was almost hunted to extinction. Now he's making a comeback. And getting an eagle's eye view by getting up close and personal is an experience that you won't soon forget.