High above the Gorge, eagles soar.  But they are new residents of the area, after being gone for quite some time.  Their friends the peregrines are new to the neighborhood as well. While you may not be into birds, this is a pretty cool story.  A story of the impact the National Park Service has on the area and their efforts to bring these once native birds back to our habitat.

The bald eagle was once a rare sight in the Gorge.  Today, catching a glimpse of this national icon is a bit more commonplace.

Just a few years ago a pair of bald eagles laid eggs in the Brooks area of the Gorge in Summers County.  Since then, they've returned.  Today the National Park Service (NPS) has set up a barrier around the nesting area for protection, as eagles are a bit skittish to human interaction.  It is believed that now five different eagle pairs can be found in the general area.  See pictures of the eagles here.

The Park Service is also making an impact in the regeneration of the peregrine falcon.  A cage-like structure is being used to protect the birds during the pre-flight period while allowing them to acclimate to the Gorge. Once they are ready to fly, the birds will be released but will continue to be fed as needed until they build up their own hunting skills.

If you’re interested in seeing these birds in their natural Gorge habitat, consider attending the New River Birding & Nature Festival May 2-7 or visit the Brooks overlook with your binoculars.

Now how cool is that?