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Winter Adventures

Become a Citizen Scientist at the First Annual Eagle Fest!

Throughout the winter of 2019-2020, the Shenango staff and local bird watchers observed seral bald eagles daily. In February and March, they were able to observe more than 90 juvenile and adult bald eagles!

The Shenango River Lake is a prime place for observing bald eagles, with several bests around the lake and river. When the lake freezes and ice begins to form in the winter season, the open water creates prime fishing for bald eagles.

First-Ever Eagle Fest at Shenango River Lake

The Eagle Fest is a free public event where you will have the opportunity to track and document eagle activity at the lake. Bill Spring, Resource Manager at the Corps Shenango River Lake, said they participate in a national survey every year where they go around the lake counting bald eagles and submit those numbers to a national database. This survey is done to track the bald eagle population to see how well they are doing based on the federal and state laws created to protect the bald eagles.

Spring said they shared photos of the bald eagles on their social media page and received many positive responses and interest from the public, motivating them to host an event.

“Our visitation is low in the winter, so we thought it would be a good time to bring people out to the lake. We want to encourage year-round visitation to the lake and provide an opportunity for people to enjoy the public lands,” said Spring.

He also said this activity is one that people can enjoy even during the pandemic since it is outdoors with plenty of room for social distancing while still enjoying the lake. While the event is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 9th, Spring said guests do not have to arrive right at 9 a.m. or stay the entire day but can enjoy the event as their schedule allows.

Staff will be available around the lake to help visitors view and locate bald eagles for photo opportunities. Official survey results will also be available for visitors to reference that information during their self-guided tour around the lake.

Visit Mercer County, PA, for the Eagle Fest!

The Eagle Fest will be held:

Saturday, January 9th, 2021, from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Location: Chestnut Run Swim Beach, 5500 Saranac Drive, Transfer, PA.

For more information, please call 724-962-7746.

Don’t forget to check out the many restaurants, shops, and other attractions during your visit to Mercer County, PA!

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Visit MercerCountyPA
VisitMercerCountyPA is the Tourism Promotion Agency (TPA) for Mercer County, Pennsylvania. We are passionate about promoting Mercer County, PA as a destination for tourists.
Visit MercerCountyPA

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