Eaglets at White Rock Lake Learning to Fly

The bald eagle family at White Rock Lake is under the watchful eye of the Dallas Park and Recreation Department as the eaglets begin learning to fly.

The city put out a press release with the eagle family update on Tuesday. According to the release, the department placed signs near the nest asking visitors to keep noise levels low and dogs on leashes.

This week, the department will install water-filled barricades near the nesting area. That will temporarily affect vehicle access along East Lawther Dr. between the playground and the Dreyfuss split.

Drivers should expect briefs delays, and cyclists should slow down in the area. The playground will close once the barricades are in place. However, the Dreyfuss area, White Rock Trail, and Lake Highlands Dr. will remain open for walking and biking.

The eagle family includes three eaglets that are entering a life stage wildlife experts call branching. During this time, eaglets are often found on the ground or in low trees as they learn to fly.

According to Texas Parks and Wildlife officials, this is a sensitive time in the young birds' lives. That's because they may fall from trees or appear to be in distress. Adults can also become more protective during this period. Keeping a safe distance from the eagle family helps prevent problems for both the family members and park visitors.

As bald eagles are protected under federal law, Dallas Park and Recreation is working with Texas Parks and Wildlife and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service to keep the eagle family safe.