Bald eagles winter along the Arkansas River at Pueblo

Winter has its own reward around Pueblo: bald eagles. When higher country freezes, eagles move to places that stay open and full of fish, and the Arkansas River corridor and the water around Lake Pueblo fit the bill. From late fall through winter, it is not unusual to spot them perched in big cottonwoods along the river or soaring over the reservoir.

This is one of the easier wildlife thrills in the county, because you do not have to go far or hike hard to find it. The cottonwood and willow banks of the Arkansas form a green ribbon through the plains that draws eagles, hawks, and herons. A pair of binoculars and a slow drive or walk along the river can turn a gray January day into something memorable.

The respectful part matters. Eagles spend winter conserving energy, and being flushed off a perch again and again wears them down. Keep your distance, stay in or near your car when you can, and never crowd a roost tree or a nest. Good viewing is patient viewing.

For where and how to watch eagles responsibly near Pueblo, see the bald eagle and Lake Pueblo pages from Colorado Parks and Wildlife.