Eagle Creek Park Welcomes New Bald Eagle Ambassador

9-month-old bald eagle to be trained for educational programs

Feb. 5, 2026 at 4:47am

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Eagle Creek Park's Ornithology Center has welcomed a new 9-month-old bald eagle as its newest ambassador. The eagle will be trained by Will Schaust for educational programming that will allow visitors to see a live bald eagle up close.

Why it matters

Bald eagles were reintroduced in Indiana after being nearly wiped out, and their population has been steadily recovering. Allowing the public to see and learn about these majestic birds up close can help raise awareness and appreciation for wildlife conservation efforts.

The details

The new bald eagle ambassador will be trained by Will Schaust, who oversees the Ornithology Center at Eagle Creek Park. The eagle will be featured in educational programs that give visitors a rare opportunity to see a live bald eagle in person and learn more about the species and its habitat.

  • The 9-month-old bald eagle recently arrived at the Ornithology Center.

The players

Will Schaust

Oversees the Ornithology Center at Eagle Creek Park and will be training the new bald eagle ambassador.

Eagle Creek Park Ornithology Center

A facility within Eagle Creek Park that focuses on educating the public about birds and their habitats.

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What’s next

The Ornithology Center plans to feature the new bald eagle in educational programs starting in the spring, allowing visitors to see the bird up close and learn more about its species and conservation efforts.

The takeaway

The arrival of a new bald eagle ambassador at Eagle Creek Park's Ornithology Center provides a unique opportunity for the public to engage with and learn about these majestic birds, helping to raise awareness and appreciation for wildlife conservation.