The annual Eagle Festival was held this past Saturday and desite the chilly temperatures, the crowds were out in mass! There were folks lined up all along the banks of the Merrimac to see the beautiful majestic birds nesting along our scenic shores.
Joppa Flats education center provided beautiful views, telescopes, live raptor demonstrations and staff to help guide and entertain its many visitors. The windows from the sanctuary overlooked the nests and provided a great way for novice birders to get a glimpse of the eagles.
Inside the education center there were activites for the whole family. Kids were able to practice scooping fish out of the water with “eagle tallons”, or watch practice making nests.
There were plenty of volunteers on hand to help kids time which kind of bird they were most like. A fun activity that seemed to be a big hit while we were there. Also kids of all ages were able to decorate an eagle mask. All taking these great activities took place in Joppa’s new education room, the Lookout.
Thank you to the Parker River Refuge, The Newburyport Chamber of Commerce, and MA Audubon for hosting such a great event!
