Bald Eagles at Table Rock Lake 

Each year in January, park rangers take a day to survey the bald eagle population at Table Rock Lake. This year a total of 136 bald eagles (113 adults plus 23 juveniles) were counted in three count zones. This number is a marked increase over the survey conducted in 2011 when 43 bald eagles were counted (37 adults plus 6 juveniles).

The bald eagle is a success story in wildlife conservation. With a seven-foot wingspan, this symbol of the United States is a thrill to watch as it glides overhead. The gleaming white feathers on the eagle's head contrast with the dark brown feathers of its body. During a bald eagle's first four years, the plumage is mottled brown and white over the entire body, especially underneath. Both head and tail are mainly dark during these years. Plumage is similar for males and females. Adult females are larger than males. A large female may be 38 inches long and weigh 14 pounds, while a small male might only be 28 inches long and weigh 6.5 pounds.

Bald eagles have also been seen at the visitor center and dam this winter.

Larry Hurley is a Civil Engineering Technician at Table Rock project. He began his career at Table Rock in 2000 as a park ranger working in both recreation and natural resources for 8 years.  Larry accepted his current position in 2008. . His chief responsibility is administering all maintenance contracts for facilities at Table Rock Lake.  He is the Team Leader of O&M (Operations & Maintenance), supervising 3 employees. Larry also ensures safe operations during all construction and maintenance projects at Table Rock as the Collateral Duty Safety Officer.  The best parts of his job, according to Larry, are establishing excellent communication with contractors and being able to see the end result of each project.  The rehabilitation of Baxter Park has been his favorite project to date.

Larry is originally from Houston, MO and is a 2003 graduate of Missouri State University in Springfield. His major course of study was wildlife conservation & management with a minor in agronomy (soil and crop science). He's a family man, living in the Hollister area with his wife and 4 year old daughter. He enjoys hunting and fishing in his off-time. He possesses a great mechanical aptitude and likes to work with his hands, building and fixing any project that comes his way.

Thanks Larry, for all you do at Table Rock Lake!