(KLZA)-- The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and partners will host the 38th annual Eagle Days at the Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge on Saturday, December 3, and Sunday, December 4. This free event offers participants a close-up look at eagles in an indoor presentation by Dickerson Park Zoo staff. Outdoors, visitors often spot waterfowl and eagles attracted by the refuge’s marshes.

Wetlands at the refuge near Mound City, attract large flocks of ducks and geese migrating southward ahead of cold winter weather. The eagles follow and feed on waterfowl or fish in the marsh pools. A driving tour of the refuge offers visitors a chance to see eagles, waterfowl, and other wildlife. MDC staff will be present along the tour route at nature interpretive stations, including some with spotting scopes to view eagles.

An annual highlight of Eagle Days is the Dickerson Park Zoo program. The zoo staff displays eagles that have been rehabilitated from injuries but cannot be released back into the wild. Visitors get a close view of eagles and interesting tips about their abilities in the wild. Live eagle shows will be presented hourly 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday.

The refuge driving tours and nature interpretive stops will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Guided bus tours of the refuge and food vendors will also be available.

For more information about Eagle Days at the Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge, call 816-271-3100.