Eagle Watch, by the numbers....

Let’s talk numbers. Two.
That is the number of eaglets our nesting pair of bald eagles successfully raised this year. I’m sure you already know this information if you read Colin’s wonderful story about his last day on eagle watch.

One. One worn out scope that did the trick for showing people our bald eagle nest (If you know, you know!).

310. That is the number of hours that thirteen dedicated Charleston County Park Master Naturalist Docents spent out at Caw Caw manning that scope on one of our dikes, greeting park guests and wowing them with our bald eagle nest. While that number is tremendously impressive, the next number is more important.

3749. That is the number of impactful moments these volunteers had on our park visitors. Visitors that otherwise would have just walked by and not shared a moment with nature. Visitors from all around the world.

Visitors that see bald eagles on a regular basis but just want a little more information to make a connection. I would imagine if you asked any of the thirteen volunteers what sort of reaction these visitors had after seeing one of the eagles, adult or juvenile, or even just seeing the nest through the scope, they would all tell you some version of the same thing. Awe.

I was not present for these 3749 interactions but I do know from experience that each one of them left with a smile on their face. Whether they stayed long enough for a quick glance or were the kind that sat and chatted with you for 45 minutes (again, if you know, you know), each one of these people left with more than they came with.

They each had a connection with nature. What we do as Master Naturalists makes a difference, even if it might be a slight one. Bringing joy is never a wasted moment, and these thirteen folks brought 310 hours of it to 3749 people! Hats off to all of our CCPRC volunteers and your dedication to our parks and making our visitor experience just a little bit more.

If you are interested in becoming a member of our Charleston County Parks Volunteer team, email me at nwilliams@ccprc.com. Share your knowledge and enjoy the outdoors while doing it.