The Bald Eagle, our national symbol, graces the Hill Country every Winter. Just off Hwy 29, half way between the town of Llano and Buchanan Dam, a huge nest is home to a pair of nesting Bald Eagles. They have successfully raised 2 eaglets in this nest each year.

Bald Eagles will often use the same nest year after year, adding more branches each time. The Llano eagle nest is about 125 yards off the road way on private ranch land. Texas parks and Wildlife has been keeping an eye on the nest, along with enormous crowds of visitors parked along the road side.

The Llano Eagle nest is the furthest west nest recorded in the state of Texas. There are two categories of Bald Eagles in this area, wintering and nesting. Wintering eagles are more abundant than nesters. Breeding pairs occur primarily in the eastern part of the state, and are usually present from October through May. The female, with a wingspan of 75" to 90", is much larger than the male and can fly 20 to 40 mph in flight, and can dive at speeds exceeding 100 mph. Bald Eagles weigh between 10 and 14 pounds and live an average of 15 to 20 years. Pairs stay together until another dies. The remaining eagle won't hesitate to find another mate.

As you enjoy your visit to this site, please remember that the nest is on private property. All visitors must stay behind the fence line. Crossing it is considered an offense that is punishable by State and Federal law. Disturbances can cause the eagles to leave the nest and the area.

Wildlife photo by Jess and Peggy Thompson of Cottonwood Photography.