GENTRY -- Northwest Arkansas Audubon Society will host a field trip at Eagle Watch Nature Trail on SWEPCO Lake just west of Gentry on Saturday, Feb. 4. Those attending are asked to meet in the parking lot at 9 a.m.
Terry Stanfill, manager of the Eagle Watch Nature Area, along with Joe Neal, a local expert on birds and bird migration, will cohost the event.
The event, which includes a short walk down the trail to viewing pavilions includes a good potential to see bald eagles, various species of hawks and sparrows, ducks and other water birds.
Those with walking impairments will be able to drive in.
The original viewing platform has been repaired and upgraded, and a new viewing pavilion was recently completed at Eagle Watch. The new pavilion provides a blind for viewers and photographers and includes a ramp that makes it accessible for those with walking impairments. It includes places to sit or stand, at several heights, and even a picnic table to sit and write field notes or enjoy a meal or snack.
The parking lot has a fresh layer of gravel, and the walking trail has been remodeled. EW draws visitors from area schools and clubs, birdwatchers, and many with cameras seeking to capture something of northwest Arkansas's wildlife heritage.
All are welcome to attend on Saturday. Membership in the local Audubon Society is not required to participate.
More information about Eagle Watch can be found at: http://www.nwarkaudubon.org/placestobird.htm and https://www.swepco.com/environment/EagleWatch.aspx. The Eagle Watch Facebook page is at: https://www.facebook.com/SWEPCOEagleWatch.
Community on 02/01/2017