Blackwater NWR Annual Mid-Winter Eagle Survey

The annual eagle count is scheduled for Wednesday, January 4, 2012. Rain date is Thursday, January 5. On the day of the survey participants will meet at the Blackwater NWR administrative building (headquarters) at 2145 Key Wallace Drive.

Non-roost Count

8:00 a.m. - Coffee and socializing, lunch room.
8:15 a.m. - Review of eagle identification, conference room.
8:30 a.m. – Organize survey parties, conference room.
9:00 a.m. – Depart for count stations.
10:00-10:30 a.m. – Non-roost count period
10:30-11:30 a.m. – Return data sheets to conference room.

Roost Count

3:00 p.m. – Meet at headquarters conference room.
3:15 p.m. – Depart for count stations.
4:00-5:30 p.m. – Roost Count Period.
5:30-6:30 p.m. –Return data sheets to conference room.

If you or anyone you know is interested in participating in either of these surveys, please contact Amanda Bessler by email at amanda_bessler@fws.gov or by phone at (410) 228-2692 X114 to sign up for the non-roost count, roost count, or both. If you are interested in a particular observation site or wish to be partnered with a particular person, please provide this information. Please include your phone number in your e-mail or phone message so that we can call you in the case of a cancellation.

If the weather looks questionable early on January 4, please call Matt Whitbeck’s cellular at 443-477-1494 (if calling before 7:00am) or Amanda (after 7:00am) to verify any potential postponements before you begin your commute.

If you have them, please bring binoculars, field guides, spotting scope, clipboards, and warm clothes. If you need directions to the Refuge, visit our FAQ page.