QUINCY, IL -- The weather may have kept few sightseers from coming out today, but it sure didn't hold back America's national symbol from soaring in large numbers.

It was the 12th annual "Eagles Along the Mississippi" event.

People had the chance to view bald eagles at the city park located below Lock and Dam 21.

While our KHQA crew was there at least 40 to 50 eagles could be spotted soaring, and feeding for fish.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineer Rangers were available to assist with spotting scopes and to answer questions concerning bald eagles.

We caught up with some people who were glad they didn't miss out on this opportunity.

 "I've really only seen them at the zoo, I've never seen them wild and flying and I've seen 4 or 5 catch fish and fly off with them.." said Olivia Rwell, 9 year old sightseer.

Rwell thought the experience was "pretty neat."

By the way the Illinois Endangered Species Protection Board has recommended that bald eagles no longer be listed as threatened.

The state Department of Natural Resources says public education and prohibition of pesticides have increased eagle numbers.

There are now more than 100 bald eagle nests in Illinois.