Take Wing

After all the hubbub of the holidays, what with the consumerism, overindulging and indoor family time, you might just want to break free, get away and breathe in the crisp outdoor air. The eagles are on the same page. As soon as they were done celebrating with their feathered families, they flew the coop and settled down in St. Louis for a little R&R. Sure, they'll do some nest-building and some soaring while they're here, and you'd better believe that they will spend plenty of time riding Mississippi River ice floes and fishing. Yessiree, this is going to be one lovely wintertime vacay for the majestic bald eagles! So why not take a chillaxing lesson from them? Just head to the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge (10950 Riverview Drive) anytime from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday (January 14 and 15) for Eagle Days. At this outdoor, pet-free affair, organized in part by the Confluence Partnership (www.confluencegreenway.org), eagles will go on about their unwinding business, while you peer at them through scopes and learn about them and other birds, thanks to programs put on by the World Bird Sanctuary (every twenty minutes from 10 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. both days) and an exhibit presented by the St. Louis Audubon Society. In addition to the bird-focused fun, Lewis & Clark reenactors set up shop on either end of the bridge, sharing details about the expedition and that long-ago way of life, plus there are warming-tent activities for the kids and more. Admission to Eagle Days is free; comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing (or feathers) are the suggested attire.
Sat., Jan. 14; Sun., Jan. 15, 2012