Local Veterans to Enjoy Celebration of Hudson Valley Bald Eagles

Croton-on Hudson, NY – In 1782, as America was spreading its wings as a fledgling nation, we adopted the bald eagle as our national emblem, symbolizing our liberty and strength. Once on the list of endangered species, more than 150 bald eagles now spend the winter on Hudson Valley waterways. An admirer of these majestic birds, Senator Terrence Murphy has been working to improve the health of the Hudson River for wildlife and its residents. To celebrate the return of the bald eagle to its winter home, Senator Murphy will partner with Teatown Lake Reservation to sponsor the 13th Annual Hudson River EagleFest.

Eaglefest 2017 will be held Saturday, February 11, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Croton Point Park, 1 Croton Point Avenue, Croton-on-Hudson. The event boasts the participation of over 25 environmental organizations, and will feature live eagle shows, bird walks, bus tours, live music, children’s activities and food trucks loaded with mouth-watering meals. Multiple eagle viewing sites staffed by birding experts will be available along the Hudson for viewing the eagles.

“EagleFest is a reminder that all wildlife is sacred and should be preserved,” said Senator Murphy. “To be able to see these magnificent birds in their natural habitat is an awe-inspiring sight, and a great way to spend a winter afternoon in the Hudson Valley.”

Kevin Carter, Executive Director for Teatown Lake Reservation said, “Teatown is honored to present EagleFest – it brings our community together in a fun and positive way and encourages people of all ages to take active steps to protect our natural environment. We thank Senator Murphy and Westchester County Parks for their incredible support.”

Singer/songwriter and storyteller Tom Chapin and other local performers will provide entertainment. Brother of the late Harry Chapin, Tom Chapin’s career spans five decades, 24 albums and three Grammy Awards. He hosted the Sunday Morning TV show “Make a Wish,”  has acted on Broadway, and worked extensively in television, radio and film.

Each winter between December and March, bald eagles from Canada, New England and northern New York migrate south to the Hudson Valley to feed on fish and waterfowl in the open water. The Hudson River is such a notable location to view bald eagle it has been designated as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society.

Senator Murphy and Teatown Lake Reservation will offer FREE admission to EagleFest for veterans. In addition, each veteran is allowed one guest free of charge. Pre-registration is required. Veterans can call Senator Murphy’s District Office at 914-962-2624 by February 3, 2017 to reserve a spot.

In the event of snow, EagleFest will be rescheduled for the following day, Sunday, February 12, 2017.  For more information about EagleFest, including directions, parking, ticket prices and a schedule of events, visit the Teatown Lake Reservation website at www.teatown.org or contact them at 914-762-2912.