From late December through early March, hundreds of American Bald Eagles take up residence along the Illinois River. To promote the Illinois River Wildlife, the Rotary Club of Chillicothe along with the Lions Club will host its annual Eagle Watch Breakfast serving pancakes and sausage from 7:30–10:30am on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at Shore Acres Clubhouse at 100 Park Blvd in Chillicothe. Along with the breakfast, there will be a children’s storyteller, a presentation with live animals from the Peoria Zoomobile, and the Audubon Society will be on hand with educational materials, spotting scopes, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. Illinois River wildlife photographer, Jami Haffner will be present with eagle educational information and photos of the surrounding area river habitat.

The Chillicothe Public Library is holding an “Eagles & Life on the Illinois River” photo and art contest. The contest winners will be displayed during the breakfast and the winners will be announced at 10am. All entries will be on display at the Chillicothe Public Library from February 5–February 29, 2024. 

Tickets for this event are available in advance from the Rotary and Lions Club members and at the door for $10/adults, $5/children 6–10 and children age 5 and under will be free.

The event is sponsored by CEFCU, Riverside Chevrolet, Arc at Chillicothe, Chillicothe Park District, and the City of Chillicothe Marketing & Tourism Commission.