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Officials at DeSoto & Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuges say bird watching season has arrived early this year.
The refuge announced that thousands of birds are stopping to eat and rest in the wetlands of Missouri Valley, Iowa.
The wildlife center says now is the time to check out migrating bald eagles, ducks and geese. Bird watchers spotted 174 eagles, more than 58,000 ducks and more than 15,000 geese one day last week.
Refuge officials say eagles have perched in trees along the Missouri River, a close view from the refuge's visitor center windows. Those wanting to see the birds up close should bring binoculars.
The refuge offers a temporary home to migrating birds in the fall and spring.
