It's a Bird! It's a Plane! It's a Bird!

Imagine you're bundled up in winter gear: Heavy socks, a turtleneck, that bird sweater Aunt Thelma knitted you for Christmas, coat, scarf, hat and gloves. You're aboard a boat called the Belle of the Ozarks on Beaver Lake near Eureka Springs. It's the end of January. And it's cold. But you're warm enough because you dressed in layers. Your camera hangs around your neck, and you're gloved hands are cupped around a thermos of hot cocoa. It's quiet. The only sounds you hear are a few whispers of other passengers and the water lapping up on the sides of the boat. Then the captain says, "Look, over there." You follow where his finger is pointing, and you see it. A bald eagle. You set down your thermos, flip your camera on and begin snapping away.

Does this sound like your idea of fun on a crisp January afternoon? If so, you're in luck. On January 26, 27 and 28 it is the 14th-annual Eagle Watch Weekend on Beaver Lake in Arkansas. Mary Anne and Jay Viator run this operation. Jay says the boat gets you within 100 feet of some of the birds, so there are great photo opportunities, so bring your camera. However, the boat does not stop on shore, so for those of you who are concerned about a lot of walking, there is none. And so it might also be a good idea to bring binoculars if you have them. This way you're guaranteed an up-close view of the birds.

Prepaid reservations are required for the tours-there are three tours per day at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Each tour lasts about two hours. Jay says the tours usually sell out, so it's best to call early to make reservations. Cost is $18 plus tax per person. No food is allowed on board the Belle, but you may bring hot drinks to keep you nice and toasty. And yes, there is a restroom aboard the Belle.

If you're wondering why you have to wait until one of the coldest months of the year to view our national bird, it's because eagles are landing in northern Arkansas this time of year in search of open bodies of water that aren't frozen-they come from places such as Canada, Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin. Fish is the diet of choice for eagles, hence their attraction to the water.

Yes, eagles have been an endangered species and have even come close to becoming extinct. But thanks to increased awareness and education about this majestic bird, the eagle has continued to thrive in the United States. Good for us and the Belle of the Ozarks. Oh, and one little tidbit: January is Eagle Awareness Month in Arkansas.

The holidays are over, and spring is still a few months away. So tear yourself away from those DVDs you got for Christmas, round up your family or a group of friends, and take a little road trip for to Eureka Springs for a boat ride.