power station
bald eagles

KCPL generating stations cool equipment using rivers or nearby cooling lakes. Of all the species attracted to these cooling lakes, Bald Eagles generate the most interest. Each of our 4 generating stations attract bald eagles during spring and fall migrations, especially during the mid-winter months. Iatan Station, in northern Platte County, has a reputation as a major gathering area for the birds in December and January. They come to feed on migratory waterfowl and fish found in and around the Missouri River water warmed by the plants operation. They can also be observed from bridges over the river, near our Hawthorn Station in Kansas City, Missouri. Warm water discharge from our Montrose and LaCygne Stations during the winter attracts fish, which in turn attract Bald Eagles. Land surrounding both facilities are managed by state wildlife authorities, and observation areas are provided for public viewing and education.

bald eagles            

Our National Bird, the bald eagle is perhaps the best known bird of prey. Adults are easily recognized by their pure white head and tail. They soar on wings spans approaching seven feet, measure nearly three feet in length and weigh 10-15 pounds (females generally heavier). Bald eagles younger than five years lack the white head and tail and vary from solid brown to blotched white. Immature-plumaged birds comprise about 1/3 the population, an indication that it is growing. Bald eagles are often seen in trees along river and lake shores. From this vantage they spy fish, their primary food. They are most numerous in the Missouri-Kansas region during the winter when they migrate south to avail themselves of ice-free waterways. Dozens sometimes concentrate at wetlands where they scavenge for dead and dying waterfowl. Over 3,000 now winter in Missouri and Kansas as compared to only a few hundred in the 1970s. By March, most wintering eagles have departed for northern breeding grounds. An increasing number, however, remain in Missouri and Kansas to nest over 60 in 1999, up from none in 1980. This dramatic population rebound followed their declaration as endangered and the banning of DDT in 1972. Bald eagles still face problems from indiscriminate shootings and the removal of bottomland forests.

• became our national bird in 1782 although Benjamin Franklin favored the wild turkey.
• are protected by the federal Eagle Protection Act which provides a fine of up to $5,000.
• build the largest nest of any bird - up to two tons in weight