This survey by the US Army Corp of Engineers and US Geological Survey in conjunction with the US Fish & Wildlife service known as the Lake Fork Mid-Winter Eagle Survey has been conducted for more than twenty- five years by volunteers.  The Mid-Winter Eagle Survey is held in over 22 standardized areas throughout Texas each year on the second weekend of January.  The 2021 Lake Fork Survey was held this year on Saturday the 9^th and Sunday the 10^th of January by water and land routes around the Lake Fork Reservoir.  Volunteers for the event gathered at the Oak Ridge Marina which has served as the headquarters for the count for many years.  They were given specific instructions about proper documentation of eagle spotting so that the data collection would be reliable. They conduct the eagle count on the same weekend each year nationwide.

Information gathered during the count is used to determine multiple variables of the eagle’s habitat including environmental effects on nesting locations, number of mature and immature eagles, viability of offspring and comparative population data from previous years. Local growth and development of a particular area and population growth within that area are also used to monitor the habitat availability of an area where eagles are frequently spotted. The results are compiled in a national database.  It is noteworthy to mention that the eagles’ need for a water source causes them to often create their habitat close to area Texas lakes.

This year’s participants traveled from a variety of locations near to and far from Lake Fork. The Audubon Society and the Lake Fork Sportsman’s Association has supported the count since 2001 by volunteering boats for water routes and providing volunteers with information on eagle sightings over the year. 

This year’s survey, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, resulted in fewer volunteers.  However, we received wonderful feedback from the ones who were able to participate. This year the eagles showed up in many areas around the lake as excited observers counted 13 eagles on Saturday. Of those, 8 were mature and 5 were immature.  Our Sunday spotters counted a total of 14 eagles with 8 being mature and 6 being immature. It was an enjoyable and productive weekend.     

Special thanks to the Lake Fork Sportsman’s Association, Oak Ridge Marina, the Audubon Society, master naturalists and all the volunteers for making this year’s eagle count a success.  We are looking forward to the 2022 Eagle Survey and hope that more prospective eagle watchers join in.