Eagle Watching on the Great River Road

One thing we love about living in Grafton are the eagles that nest and fly in our neck of the woods. Most people think eagles live in the remote wilderness. And, for many folks, spotting a bald eagle is rare. We think we’re pretty lucky many of these majestic birds make their homes along the Great River Road, which is close to our little Spring Hollow property.

We’ve put together this brief article to help our visitors make the most of their stay, and not miss the rare chance to see bald eagles in their natural habitat.

Watch the eagles

Where to Watch Eagles on the Great River Road

Visitors come from near and far to glimpse the mighty bald eagles. When you see an eagle in person, you’ll understand why they are symbols of freedom and power. We encourage our guests to go eagle-watching. Spring Hollow is near several great viewing areas. Even while you’re out and about, keep your eyes on the sky for soaring eagles.

Pere Marquette State Park: Just a few miles from Grafton, Pere Marquette State Park is a fantastic spot for eagle watching. Hike along the park’s many trails or view the eagles from the park’s visitor center, which has an observation deck overlooking the Illinois River.
Brussels Ferry: The Brussels Ferry crosses the Illinois River and bald eagle territory. Hop on the ferry and check out the eagles from the water, or just watch them from the shore.
Grafton Harbor: Boat tours of the Illinois River are another way to view eagles and their habitats. You can also rent boats or kayaks to explore the river. Spending time on the river would give you many spectacular views of eagles.
Loading Dock: is a restaurant and marina in Grafton that also has magnificent views of the river and the eagles. Enjoy a meal while watching the eagles or take a walk along the riverfront.

Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge: About 30 miles south of Grafton, the refuge is a popular spot for eagle watching. There’s an observation deck for eagle watching, which gives clear, unobstructed views. And, while you’re there, take a guided tour of the refuge and learn about the work they do for wildlife.

Tips for Eagle Watching

Wear the right clothes for the season. Eagle-watching is an outside activity, after all. Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be standing a lot. Just make the right preparations based on the season, and you’ll be fine.

Bring binoculars or a camera to get that one-of-a-kind photo or up-close view.
Early morning or late afternoon are the best times for eagle watching. The eagles are most active during these times of the day, and you’ll have a better chance of spotting them. Plus, the lighting during sunrise or sunset adds a flair of beauty to the scenery.
Look for areas of open water. Eagles hunt near rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water for fish and other prey.
Be patient and observant. A keen eye is helpful. Scan the skies and tree branches for signs of eagles. And listen for their distinctive calls, which can help you find them.
Last, respect the eagles’ habitat. Follow the instructions at eagle-viewing areas to guard them and their habitats. Always give them plenty of space to avoid causing stress or harm and don’t disturb their nests or approach them too closely.

The Behavior and Habitat of Eagles

Bald eagles are the most common species of eagle found along the Great River Road, and they have specific behaviors and habitats that are unique to their species. Here are some characteristics of eagle behavior and habitat along the Great River Road:

Behavior:

Bald eagles are primarily active during the day, and roost in trees at night.
They are opportunistic feeders and hunt a variety of prey. Fish is their primary source of food. If you’re lucky, watching an eagle swoop down and snatch a fish from the water is an awesome sight.
Eagles are social birds. During the winter, when open water is scarce and competition for food is high, bald eagles gather in large numbers at feeding sites.
During courtship, eagles show-off with magnificent aerial displays of swooping, diving, and locking talons mid-air.

Habitat:

Eagles live in a variety of habitats, such as forests, wetlands, and open waterways, like rivers and lakes.
They require tall trees or other elevated perches for nesting and roosting.
Eagles build their nests where there's plenty of waterfowl or other prey.
Eagles are fascinating and impressive birds. Watching them in their natural environment will teach you a lot about them and give you a better appreciation.

6 Reasons Why Eagles Make Awesome Symbols

When you see bald eagles in person, you understand why these powerful birds have become symbols. Throughout the earliest days of history and down to our present, the eagle’s image graces everything from coins to flags to battle standards. Here are a few symbolic facts.

Freedom: The bald eagle’s ability to fly represents freedom and liberty. Since 1782 it has been the symbol and national bird of the United States.
Strength: Bald eagles can carry prey that weighs up to half their body weight. They are apex predators at the top of the food chain. It’s no wonder they’re associated with strength and dominance.
Wisdom: In some cultures, the bald eagle is a symbol of wisdom, believed to have spiritual significance, as a messenger between the spirit and the physical world.
Resilience: Once endangered because of habitat loss and hunting, their populations have rebounded thanks to conservation efforts. Because of this, they are symbols of resilience, having undergone trials to emerge stronger than before.
Vision: Bald eagles have excellent eyesight, able to see prey from great distances. With eyesight four times better than a human’s, they symbolize clarity, that ability to see through confusion and chaos.
Leadership: Because of their strength, dominance, and resilience, bald eagles represent leadership in many cultures.

At the End of the Day

In conclusion, the Great River Road in Grafton, Illinois, offers an unparalleled experience for eagle watchers and nature enthusiasts. After a long day of watching the magnificent eagles, Spring Hollow Bed and Breakfast is the perfect place to relax and recharge. Kick back and look over your eagle photos, or plan your dinner for the evening. Spring Hollow is the perfect place to call home during your visit.