The Arizona Game and Fish Department conducts educational seminars for the public on bald eagle natural history at the Pinetop and Flagstaff regional offices each year in late January or early February. The programs are free to the public, although reservations are required, and consist of a classroom presentation and discussion of bald eagle life history, behavior patterns and their current status in Arizona and North America. This is followed by an optional field trip to a local lake to observe eagle behavior first-hand.

Participants are advised to dress appropriately for weather conditions that day, and to bring a set of binoculars or spotting scope for improved observation. Contact the Pinetop regional office at (928) 367-4281 or the Flagstaff regional regional office at (928) 774-5054 for program dates and more information.

From November through early May, the annual Eagle Watch season is on at Verde Canyon Railroad. It’s easy to understand why the Railroad earned the reputation as Arizona’s longest-running nature show when these majestic birds are headlining. The aerial display of eagles riding thermals overhead or engaged in breathtaking courting rituals captivates both passengers and the crew. Verde Canyon is a protected breeding area closed to the public. Only Verde Canyon Railroad provides an exceptional opportunity to view these extraordinary birds of prey in their nesting areas and natural habitat. On the first Saturday of each month, the experience is enhanced by a visit from Sonora, a rescued bald eagle and educational animal who visits the depot from Scottsdale’s Liberty Wildlife. Sonora is perhaps the only “train-riding” bald eagle in existence! During the excursion, she and her handlers pass through the train, spending time on each open-air car educating passengers about the importance of raptors in our ecosystem.

For reservations and more information: (800) 293-7245 or www.verdecanyonrr.com