By Robin Schroffel

I was out for a walk last week when I heard the shrill, distinctive whistle of a bald eagle.
High above, I counted eleven of the majestic creatures soaring in lazy circles before they made a beeline for the sea.
Since then, I’ve spotted them all over the place: perched on a low treetop along Highway 19A, flying over the Driftwood Mall parking lot in Courtenay, and hanging out along the beach near my home.
Spring is here again, and so are the eagles. This annual return is cause for celebration, and up in Campbell River locals are welcoming the bald eagles back from their Washington wintering grounds in style.
On Saturday, February 26, 2011, the Mountainaire Avian Rescue Society (MARS) presents the 6th Annual Campbell River Bald Eagle Festival, taking place in the Maritime Heritage Centre at Discovery Pier.
The festival is a great opportunity for avian enthusiasts to learn about the birds and the birding community on Vancouver Island.