Get Outside

See the Nation’s Bird

The majestic bald eagle is easier to see this time of year, catching fish at open water sources. See Page 5 for all the Eagle Days events that celebrate this national treasure.

Pass the Suet, Please

Woodpeckers are looking for another food source this time of year — suet. Get your suet feeders ready and watch as downy, hairy, pileated, and red-bellied woodpeckers put their sharp, chisel-shaped bills to work.

Northeast Region

Waterfowl Hunting Clinics: Women’s Duck Clinic/Hunt

Friday, Dec. 8 • 5:30–8:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 9 • 5 a.m.–1 p.m. Northeast Regional Office 3500 S. Baltimore, Kirksville, MO 63501 Registration required, call 660-785-2420 by Dec. 4

This women’s event is an opportunity to learn tactics for a successful waterfowl season. Identification, cover, decoys, and calling are just a few of the topics covered during the Friday evening clinic. A hunt will take place the following morning. Weather and bird activity will determine the exact location. It is recommended that participants practice shooting trap or sporting clays, or take a basic shotgun course before attending the event.

Fishing Skills: Winter Fly-Fishing for Beginners

Saturday, Dec. 16 • 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Roaring River Hatchery 24390 Farm Road 1135, Cassville, MO 65625 Registration required, call 417-847-2430 by Dec. 15

Learn about trout management, fishing rules and regulations, fly-fishing, and fish cleaning and preparation. All equipment will be provided, but bring your own if you desire.

Goose Call

Canada geese make a surge this time of year. In fact, their population is at its peak in the Show-Me State. Get out and see how many you can find.

Midwinter Love Calls

Red foxes begin mating this month. Listen for their barks and squalls.

Natural Events to See This Month

Here’s what’s going on in the natural world.

• Black Bear cubs are born
• Eastern Cottontail rabbits use abandoned dens during heavy snowfalls
• Squirrels gather in nests to conserve energy
• Beavers feed on sapling reserves
• Raccoons take to their dens during snow and ice storms

Xplor — Inspire the children in your life to get outside!

Looking for a way to coax your kids to put down their devices, climb off the couch, and get outside? Then check out Xplor, MDC’s free magazine for kids and kids at heart.

Six times a year, Xplor serves up stories about Missouri’s coolest critters, niftiest natural places, and liveliest outdoor activities. The magazine is free to Missouri residents (one subscription per household, please). Out-of-state subscribers pay $5 per year; 0ut-of country subscribers pay $8.

Don’t keep the door closed any longer. sign up for your free subscription at mdc.mo.gov/xplor