Bald Eagle Appreciation Days in Keokuk, Iowa (2025)

Is there a cost to attend the Bald Eagle Appreciation Days in Keokuk, Iowa?

It is free, there is no admission cost. However, products are for sale related to eagles, along with food available for purchase, as well as costs for those who choose the guided bus tour.

When and where are the Bald Eagle Appreciation Days in 2026?

Saturday, Jan 18th, 2025 9 am to 5 pm

Location: First Christian Church, 3476 Main Street, Keokuk, Iowa

Activities at First Christian Church include:

• Live Raptor Program every hour: 10 am, 11 am, 12 noon, 1 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm provided by the World Bird Sanctuary from St. Louis.
• Lee County Conservation Eagles Nest and Nature Displays
• Native American Displays and Artifacts by the Iliniwek Village
• Insect Zoo Live Bug Displays from Iowa State University
• Various vendors selling products and food served by the Disciple Women from First Christian Church
• Eagle Photo Contest and Voting

Where is my best chance to view wild bald eagles during the appreciation days?

You have three options: Head out on your own, head out to a location with trained spotters, or your last option is a guided bus tour.

Do it on your own: Drive the river road between Keokuk and Montrose is a popular route to spot bald eagles. Another option is to head to the Southside Boat Club, which has free spotting scopes.

Get some help: Stop at Victory Park (8 N Water St, Keokuk, IA 52632) along the riverfront where Lee County Conservation has trained spotters available to assist you.

Guided Tour: In prior years, they have held guided tours – however, I have not been able to confirm this information for 2025. But here’s what they offered in 2024… Join a guided bus tour with Conservationist Clay Steele. There are only two guided bus tours: one leaving at 10 am and another leaving at 2 pm. Each tour is 90 minutes long and seating is limited. Cost is $10 for ages 16 & older, $5 for ages 5 to 15, free for ages 4 and younger.  Payment takes place as you enter the bus for the tour.

Are bald eagles still endangered in 2024?

Although bald eagles are no longer technically listed as endangered, they are listed as threatened in all lower 48 states. In addition, it is not only illegal to hunt or poach eagles, it is also illegal to possess or sell any part of the bird including feathers, talons, etc.

What are some interesting facts about bald eagles?

• Their eyesight is eight times stronger than humans.
• They can reach altitudes of over 10,000 feet
• They mate for life
• Their talons have incredible grip strength of 400 pounds per square inch.