Shepaug Bald Eagle Observation Opening for 29th Season

SOUTHBURY, Conn., Dec. 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Reservation lines will open December 10 for the 2013-2014 Winter Season of the Bald Eagle Observation Area at the Shepaug Hydroelectric Dam in Southbury, Conn.  Observation times this season will be Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. beginning Saturday, December 21, 2013, and running through Wednesday, March 5, 2014.  Please be aware, however, that the observation area is closed both Christmas Day and New Year's Day. 

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All are welcome and admission is free of charge, but advance reservations are required.  To make reservations for individuals, families, and groups, call toll-free at 1-800-368-8954 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays or request a reservation on-line at www.gdfsuezna.com/forms/eagleviewreservations/

This is the 29^th season for the Observation Area, which is run by FirstLight Power Resources, a GDF SUEZ Energy North America company.  FirstLight owns and operates several hydroelectric facilities, including Shepaug, along the Housatonic River. 

"Shepaug Eagle View is one of the true jewels in Connecticut for bird-enthusiasts and those who enjoy nature," said Gary Smolen, FirstLight's longtime coordinator of the eagle observation program.  "We've welcomed nearly 140,000 visitors to the site over the years from not only the Connecticut area, but from all over the U.S. and Canada.  We hope many more will join us this winter."

"Because the viewing season begins during the week of most school vacations, it's a great opportunity for young students as well as their parents, teachers and extended families to visit.  It's a fun and educational experience they will not soon forget," added Smolen.  

In past years visitors have witnessed 10 or more eagles in a single day, not to mention a variety of other birds including red-tail hawks, sharp-shinned hawks, goshawks, great blue herons, and various waterfowl.

Specialists will be on site with high-powered telescopes to help visitors see the eagles in action and to answer questions about America's national symbol.  Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly and to bring binoculars if possible, given the limited number of onsite telescopes.

FirstLight Power Resources is a subsidiary of GDF SUEZ Energy North America, which manages a range of energy businesses in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, including electricity generation and cogeneration, natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) distribution and sales, and retail energy sales and related services to commercial and industrial customers.  GDF SUEZ Energy North America is a part of the international energy group GDF SUEZ. For more information, please visit www.gdfsuezna.com.

SOURCE GDF SUEZ Energy North America