Word around the museum is that, if you're lucky and looking out the Mississippi River Gallery's big windows (Level 5) at the right time, you might see one of two bald eagles that have been hanging out along our stretch of the river.

Once an endangered species, bald eagles have made a spectacular comeback since the pesticide DDT was banned in the United States in 1972. In our area, eagles are becoming common sightings. Each year, the Mississippi River Valley becomes a "highway" for eagles traveling from the northern summer homes to their southern winter homes. But many eagles spend all year here in Minnesota. In fact, Minnesota and Wisconsin are home to the largest nesting population of bald eagles in the United States outside of Alaska.

Mornings and evenings, you might see eagles soaring on thermals or diving for fish, their primary food. During the day, you're likely to see them perched in large trees near the river's edge.

How can you identify a bald eagle? Well, they're big, with wingspans of up to 7 1/2 feet. You'll often see them soaring or gliding with flat wings. When they do flap, wingbeats are slow and powerful. You usually see them near open water. And adult eagles have brown bodies with white heads and tails. For more tips, Visit the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

Where to see eagles during the winter

Where to see eagles in Red Wing

Where to see eagles in Wabasha

Find out about where you can see eagles during the summer, complete with map.

A cool site with lots of questions and answers about bald eagles.

The Raptor Center at the University of Minnesota provides medical care for sick and injured birds of prey, including eagles.