It's eagle awareness week on Lake Buchanan

John Karger (l) and Kelly Rayner present the birds of prey demonstration while at Lake Buchanan. Here Kargar shows off one of his birds. -Staff photo by Briskin

December 6, 2001 -- Many people across the state are privy to the seasonal migration of the majestic bald eagle to Lake Buchanan in Central Texas. At the Canyon of the Eagles Lodge and Nature Park just outside Burnet, December 1-9 is Eagle Awareness week.

This week is a chance to welcome the American bald eagle to its winter home and enjoy activities such as live birds of prey demonstrations and eagle cruises on Lake Buchanan.

The Live Birds of Prey Demonstration is hosted by Last Chance Forever Birds of Prey Conservancy's John Karger and his assistant Kelly Rayner. According to Karger as long as people don't understand the value of all the creatures on earth he will have a job.

Karger has been practicing falconry for 35 years and has devoted his life to educating young and old alike about the need to care for the planet and respect all of it's inhabitants.

The demonstration takes place on the banks of the pristine Lake Buchanan each afternoon. Some of the featured guests include a great horned owl, a golden eagle, a lanner and a vulture. Karger explains each of the animal's habits and hunting methods to the crowd and has the birds demonstrate some of their flying abilities.

Immediately following the demonstration the Vanishing Texas River Cruise sets off in search of bald eagles. There is not a guarantee that an eagle will be spotted, but so far this year the morning (9a.m.) cruise participants have been lucky enough to see a few.

This area is the winter home of the eagles and their young. The adult eagles spend the winter in central Texas' moderate climate teaching their offspring how to hunt and fish before migrating north for the spring and summer months.

Cruise guests are treated to a history and geography lesson on the lake by the boat staff. While the eagles are the main attraction, one can see blue herons, pelicans, cliff dwelling goats and many other wild animals.

For more information on the Vanishing Texas River Cruise visit their web site at www.vtrc.com. To learn more about the Canyon of the Eagles Lodge and Nature Park visit www.canyonoftheeagles.com.