Smithville Lake is gearing up for its 28th annual Eagle Days, a much-anticipated weekend event taking place at the Paradise Pointe Golf Course Clubhouse on Jan. 6-7. Organized by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), and the Clay County Parks and Recreation Department, the event promises a range of engaging activities from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday and 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Highlights of Eagle Days include a unique live raptor program by Operation Wildlife, showcasing birds that have recovered from injuries. Inside the clubhouse, attendees can explore a variety of exhibits and information booths presented by the Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary, Friends of Lakeside Nature Center, Wings of Love, and the Clay County Parks and Recreation Department. These exhibits will feature live raptors and other terrestrial wildlife like turtles.
Don’t miss the captivating captive eagle shows by Operation Wildlife, scheduled for 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. on Saturday, 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Please note that seating for these popular shows is limited.
Eagle viewing opportunities will be announced during the event as officials identify locations around the lake where eagles and waterfowl gather. These majestic birds are often seen catching fish or following waterfowl on the lake.
The event venue, Paradise Point Golf Course Clubhouse, is conveniently located at 18212 Golf Course Drive, Smithville, on the lake’s west side. For further information on eagle watching in Missouri, including details on winter spots and other events, visit the MDC website at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Zt6.
*This article was written from a press release from the Missouri Department of Conservation. Bill Graham
Published Date 12/29/2023.
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