Spring and Summer 2005 at Patoka

Spring and Summer 2005 at Patoka has been very busy with programs and projects. Many folks have enjoyed a close-up view of DNR, Patoka's resident birds, learning about these fascinating raptors or birds of prey, Bald Eagle C52 and Barred Owl. With their precision tools, talons and beak, both the owl and eagle are very well equipped to grip their food with their talons and tear the meat in pieces with their strong beaks.

April 17th, Sunday, Patoka's resident red-tail Hawk died. Just one month away from turning 21 years old, quite old for a hawk. This amazing red-tail hawk was a vital part of our nature programs for many years from the mid 1980s, with a close-up look at the red tail feathers, the blue-black beak and many colors of feathers, habits and biology of this wild bird.

Owl is healthy at a weight of 1 pound 10 ounces, an average weight for a female barred owl.

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Barred Owl is on the glove of handler, interpretive naturalist Tammy Emmons. Owl is doing well after her recent visit to the veterinarian, Dr. Sam Vaughn. Dr. Vaughn indicated that Owl may be an older bird as her beak is growing at a fairly fast pace. Owl now has three handlers who care for her and see that she is in her viewing area on most days at the Visitor Center.

On June 1st, a decision was made for Bald Eagle C52 to remain in his shelter for 2-3 months in order for feathers to correctly grow on his "elbow" areas of both wings. Eagle continues to see DNR staff who care for him, but he will not be out for public viewing until mid-August. To find out more about our Owl & Eagle programs, please call the Patoka Lake Visitor Center, 812.685.2447.


Bald Eagle C52 taking a bath. Yes, bald eagles and other birds take baths to clean and groom or preen. Patoka's resident bald eagle takes a bath approximately every week. He will step into his pool and dip his head in the water. It is indeed a sight to see. Reports of a bald eagle taking a bath are rare but have occurred on at least 2 occasions here at Patoka Reservoir in the last 10 years.