ROGERS, Ark. – Eagle Watch cruises on Beaver Lake return to Hobbs State Park this winter. The popular cruises were canceled last winter due to COVID-19.
Bald eagles typically migrate through southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas, mainly around rivers and lakes, from November through February.
Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area offers boat tours most weekends and holidays this fall.
The tours start punctually at 3:00 p.m. in the Rocky Branch Marina. To make reservations, call Hobbs State Park at 479-789-5000. Tickets must be purchased in advance and cost $ 15 for adults and $ 7.50 for children ages 6-12.
Tour dates are:
• November 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 27th, 28th.
• 4th, 5th, 18th, 19th, 23rd, 26th, 27th, 31st Dec.
• 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30th January.
• February 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 26th, 27th.
Steve Chyrchel, interpreter guide at the park, told me that while bald eagles live all year round, winter is the best time to spot them in the area and he also told me that the best time to see them is is when you do I don’t want to be outside – drizzle, cold weather when the eagles like to sit in trees.
Park officials say they have never failed to spot eagles – some adults and others without the distinctive white head – and often see other wildlife such as ospreys, herons, kingfishers, and more. The cruises go to the Van Winkle arm of the lake where there is less development.
Participants are asked to dress appropriately for the weather.
“You have to remember that eagle watching is not a warm weather sport,” Chrychel told me too. “Down on the water it feels like it’s 10 degrees colder. The boat is also moving, so you better dress warm. “
