A Day of Eagles and Inspiration at the NJ Meadowlands Eagle Festival

It was a picture-perfect day for the NJ Meadowlands Eagle Festival, held today at the Meadowlands Environment Center in Lyndhurst, NJ. Under clear, sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-40s, nearly 800 birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts gathered for an unforgettable celebration of wildlife, conservation, and community. Sponsored by the Bergen County Audubon Society (BCAS), the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority (NJSEA), and Veolia, this free event offered something for everyone.

The festival kicked off with two highly anticipated Eagle Watch Walks, led by BCAS field trip volunteers. Participants were thrilled to spot an array of 36 bird species, including the majestic bald eagle. The sight of three eagles soaring through the sky was a highlight for many attendees, who came equipped with binoculars and cameras, hoping for that perfect moment.

BCAS President Don Torino set the tone for the day with a heartfelt message about conservation. “We must recognize the great comeback of the bald eagle while ensuring our focus remains on protecting and preserving these birds for generations to come,” he said. Torino also presented a $500 donation from BCAS to the Conserve Wildlife Foundation Eagle Project, underscoring the organization’s commitment to safeguarding New Jersey’s raptors. His words served as a poignant reminder that the recovery of the bald eagle is both a milestone to celebrate and a call to action to continue protecting their habitats.

Inside the Meadowlands Environment Center, the energy was palpable. Visitors explored information tables and exhibits, including a captivating live birds-of-prey demonstration from the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center. Rosetta Arrigo, Land Steward and Raptor Care Specialist at Flat Rock Brook, introduced attendees to Tilly, an Eastern Screech Owl. Tilly charmed the crowd with her diminutive size and fierce demeanor. Rosetta’s engaging presentation offered a close-up look at the care and dedication required to rehabilitate raptors, while also educating visitors on their ecological importance.

Children delighted in games, crafts, and giveaways courtesy of the BCAS, NJSEA, and partner organizations like the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey. Larissa Smith, the foundation's senior wildlife biologist, was on hand to discuss the NJ Bald Eagle Project, which monitors and protects over 300 nests statewide. Meanwhile, festival-goers could explore a Native American display featuring Marcey Tree In The Wind, a member of the Ramapough Lenape Nation, and her husband, Tony Moon Hawk Langhorn of the Unkechaug Nation. Through storytelling and artifacts, they shared the deep cultural significance of eagles within Native American traditions.

Later in the day, Matt Malwitz, an award-winning wildlife photographer and the 2024 Audubon Photography Awards grand prize winner, represented Bergen County Camera in Westwood, NJ. In his dynamic presentation, Matt shared tips on how to photograph raptors, emphasizing patience, timing, and respect for the subjects. His session left attendees inspired and eager to practice their newfound skills, further enhancing their appreciation for the artistry of wildlife photography.

The festival celebrated local conservation champions as well. Don Smith, affectionately known as "Mr. Meadowlands," received the BCAS Frank M. Chapman Award for his lifelong dedication to preserving the Meadowlands' unique habitat. A Little Ferry native and retired naturalist, Smith’s efforts, including the restoration of Harrier Meadow, have left a lasting legacy for both wildlife and the community. Recipients of the Harold Feinberg Conservation Awards, Krishna Rege and Edna Duffy, were also honored for their tireless advocacy and commitment to environmental preservation.

Festival-goers enjoyed a musical treat from Steve Kelman, whose bluegrass and folk tunes provided a fitting soundtrack to the day’s festivities. Meanwhile, a robust lineup of birds—ranging from northern harriers to ruby-crowned kinglets—delighted attendees on the walks, showcasing the diverse avian life of the Meadowlands.

As the festival drew to a close, attendees left with not only cherished memories but also a renewed commitment to conservation. Reflecting on the day’s success, Torino summed it up perfectly: “Thank you for making the Meadowlands Eagle Festival a great success.”

The NJ Meadowlands Eagle Festival was not just an event but a celebration of nature, community, and the enduring resilience of the bald eagle—a symbol of hope, strength, and the shared responsibility to protect our planet.

Written by James Falletti
January 12, 2025 Hackensack, NJ