During the winter season, the iconic symbol of America, the bald eagle, is known to call Illinois its home, marking primetime eagle spotting.

The frozen waters of more northern states typically drive the eagle to head further south, but not very far. In fact, Alaska is the only state that has more eagles in the winter than Illinois.

Illinois has more than 3,100 bald eagles that choose the state as their location to spend the winter. The eagles arrive in Illinois in December and typically stay until March. The state is particularly attractive to them because of open, not always frozen, water during the winter months.

To find eagles more accurately, download the application eBird on a cell phone or visit ebird.org for information on all local eagle sightings. Visit https://eagles.illinois.gov/ for more information.