WILDLIFE OUTINGS BRIGHTEN WINTER

The eagles are here. So are the seals. On land and at sea, wildlife watching is a favorite winter pastime in Western Connecticut, where some fascinating creatures feel at home even when the temperature drops. Eagle-eyed spectators once again are invited to see graceful eagles in action through high-powered telescopes at the Shepaug Eagle Observation Area. Those who sign on for Seal Spotting cruises with the Norwalk Aquarium will be the first to experience the brand new 63-foot RV Spirit of the Sound, a revolutionary new catamaran that went into service in December.

SEAL SPOTTING ABOARD SPIRIT OF THE SOUND

The sleek new R/V Spirit of the Sound™ has launched just in time for the annual Seal Spotting cruises operated by the Norwalk Aquarium. It is the only research vessel in the world with virtually silent hybrid-electric propulsion. The 30-passenger 63-foot all-aluminum vessel replaces the aquarium’s current 34-year-old diesel-powered trawler, providing more room and far less noise for passengers.

The unique two and one-half hour cruises on Long Island Sound offer a chance to spy some of the harbor seals, gray seals and the sea birds that regularly winter in Long Island Sound. These invigorating outings are held many weekends through early April, the season when the seals come down to Fairfield County for shelter from much colder northern waters. Cruises are timed for low tide, when the seals are most likely to be spotted hanging out and basking in their favorite spots, exposed rocks, shoals and shoreline on and near the Norwalk Islands.

Educators tell about the seals’ natural histories and the special anatomy that lets them survive nicely in winter. They also point out the plentiful winter waterfowl and fill in passengers on what happens in winter on the Sound, who migrates in, who migrates out and who stays put Participants are advised to dress in warmly in layers. Passengers must be over 42 inches tall and those under age 21 must be accompanied by an adult. For prices and the schedule for 2014-15, see www.maritimeaquarium.com

EAGLE WATCHING IN SOUTHBURY

The graceful bald eagles that fly down from more frozen northern climes each winter have good reason to stop in Southbury in Western Connecticut’s Litchfield County. The birds have learned that the running waters of the Shepaug Dam on the Housatonic River in Southbury prevents ice from forming, insuring a ready supply of fish, the eagles’ favorite dish. To make things even better, when the fish come through the dam turbine, they’re a bit stunned and tend to lay on top of the water, making for a tasty buffet.

Every year since 1986 when the Shepaug Eagle Observation Area opened to the public, bird lovers have flocked to watch the birds swooping and diving through the telescopes thoughtfully provided by FirstLight Power Resources. Volunteers from Connecticut Audubon are on hand to help spot the eagles and to answer questions about the birds. Past sightings have ranged from 15 eagles to a low of zero on a few unlucky days.

Weather permitting; the Shepaug Dam Bald Eagle Observation Area is open from December 20 To the first weekend in March on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Reservation are required to insure that the area is not overcrowded and may be made by calling 800-368-8954 from Tuesday through Friday, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. For details, seewww.shepaugeagles.info.

For more information about outdoor activities and a free copy of Unwind, a full-color, 152-page booklet detailing what to do and see, and where to stay, shop and dine in the Litchfield Hills and Fairfield County in Western Connecticut, contact the Western Connecticut Visitors Bureau, P.O. Box 968, Litchfield, CT 06759, (860) 567-4506, or visit their web site at www.visitwesternct.com