Veterans offered bird's-eye view of eagles

The Bureau of Land Management and Idaho Fish and Game are sponsoring a free Veterans' Eagle Watch Cruise on Saturday, Nov. 26 on Lake Coeur d'Alene. The two-hour cruise is focused on recognizing veterans, active military and their immediate families from the local area. The cruise will give those who have served our country a unique opportunity to view these regal birds as they gather on the north end of Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Each year, migrating eagles visit the Coeur d'Alene area to take advantage of the kokanee spawning season. The majestic birds can be seen around the lake as early as mid-November and many stay through mid-January. Last winter 254 eagles, a record number, were counted near Wolf Lodge Bay on Lake Coeur d'Alene.

Reservations are required and priority will be given to veterans, active military and their immediate families. Seating is limited to 160 individuals. Reservations will be taken by voice mail through November 21, and can be made by calling (208) 769-5043. Please leave a contact name, phone number and the number of individuals in the party.

The cruise boat will begin boarding at the Coeur d'Alene Resort dock at 12:30 pm on November 26; departure for the two-hour cruise is scheduled for 1 pm. For further information, please contact Beth Paragamian at (208) 769-1414 or Suzanne Endsley at (208) 769-5004.