Saint Joseph: Missouri Eagle Waterfowl Photography Tour
If you’re drawn to the dramatic spectacle of nature’s winter show—bald eagles soaring in daylight and thousands of waterfowl gathering on icy waters—then the Saint Joseph Eagle Waterfowl Photography Tour might just be your next must-do adventure. Designed for birders, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers of all levels, this two-day experience offers a rare opportunity to capture some of North America’s most majestic birds in their natural habitat.
What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to see anywhere from 100 to over 600 bald eagles—from mature white-headed birds to juvenile mottled browns—and to watch tens of thousands of waterfowl like snow geese, trumpeter swans, and mallards. Second, the guidance of professional wildlife photographer Terry Nunn, whose expertise helps ensure that even beginners come away with stunning images and meaningful memories.
One thing to consider is that the tour involves a good deal of outdoor photography in winter conditions, so you’ll need appropriate gear and a reasonable level of preparedness. Lodging and food are not included, so you’ll want to plan ahead if you prefer a comfortable base near the meeting point.
This tour is best suited for photographers eager to improve their skills, nature lovers who appreciate authentic wildlife experiences, and adventurers ready for a chilly but unforgettable outdoor journey. If your goal is to get up close to soaring eagles and enjoy a small, passionate group, it’s an excellent choice.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 4 participants) ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Expert Guidance: Led by Terry Nunn, a seasoned wildlife photographer whose work has been published widely.
- Prime Locations: Multiple passes through eagle-rich areas maximize your chances of capturing great shots.
- Waterfowl Spectacle: Tens of thousands of ducks and swans provide vibrant movement and sound for dynamic photographs.
- All-Day Excursions: From sunrise to sunset, expect to be engaged in wildlife watching and photography in diverse settings.
- Flexibility: The tour offers tips on camera settings, composition, and post-processing, making it useful for both beginners and advanced shooters.
Experience Overview
Picture this: you arrive just outside of St. Joseph, Missouri, at sunset, and from the start, the excitement is palpable. You’ll meet your guide, Terry Nunn, who’ll load you into his campervan, which will serve as your mobile base for two days. This small, private group ensures plenty of space for personal questions and tailored advice—something larger tours often lack.
The tour’s core focus is allowing you to photograph and observe bald eagles and waterfowl at their most active. You’ll visit several prime eagle and waterfowl locations, each chosen for their potential to showcase these magnificent creatures in different behaviors—perched, in flight, or hunting. The goal is to give you hundreds of opportunities to capture these birds at various distances, angles, and moments.
As dawn breaks, you’ll witness the icy waters reflecting the first light while eagles hunt and soar overhead. During the day, the skies will be filled with tens of thousands of snow geese, trumpeter swans, and ducks. Expect to see ospreys making dramatic dives and herons stalking the shoreline—nature’s own wildlife drama.
In the evenings, after hours of shooting and observing, you’ll return to your vehicle, which makes multiple passes by the same locations so you can keep your gear ready and your food and drinks close. The flexibility of this setup allows you to stay comfortable and well-fed during long, chilly days.
The Value of the Tour
At $800 per person, the tour’s pricing reflects its intimacy, expert guidance, and access to prime wildlife viewing spots. It’s not a casual day trip—it’s a carefully curated experience that balances professional instruction with ample time in the field. With Terry Nunn’s photography tips, you’ll learn techniques for action shots, wildlife portraits, and post-processing, adding value beyond just the experience itself.
Considering the expense, it’s important to recognize that you’re paying not just for the chance to see hundreds of eagles and thousands of ducks but also for the knowledge of an accomplished photographer. This guidance can significantly improve your wildlife photography skills, especially if you’re new to outdoor shooting or trying to capture fast-moving birds.
The tour doesn’t include lodging or meals, but with Missouri’s range of hotels in St. Joseph—about 30 minutes from the starting point—you have options for a comfortable base. The flexibility to bring your own food and beverages, stored conveniently in the campervan, helps keep costs manageable.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1:
- Meet just outside St. Joseph at sunset.
- Board the campervan for the trip, setting out early the next morning.
- Visit several eagle hotspots, with plenty of chances to photograph perched eagles and birds in flight.
- Spend midday capturing the waterfowl congregation, focusing on diving ducks, swans, and geese.
- As the day winds down, enjoy the changing light over the riverbanks, perfect for golden hour photography.
Day 2:
- Early start again, aiming to catch the eagles and waterfowl at their most active.
- Multiple passes in each location give you the opportunity to refine your shots and try different angles.
- The guide offers tips on camera settings and composition to help you get the most out of your shots.
- End the day with the sunset reflecting over the icy waters, a classic scene that’s hard to beat.
Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips
The tour’s small size isn’t just about comfort; it fosters a family-like atmosphere among wildlife enthusiasts. Multiple reviews praise Terry Nunn’s deep knowledge and approachable manner, with one noting, “His guidance made all the difference, especially for someone like me still learning how to shoot moving birds.”
Photographers will appreciate the opportunity to practice in real-world conditions—changing light, cold mornings, and swift birds. Terry also offers post-processing tips, giving you techniques to enhance your images after the tour.
Be prepared for winter weather—layered clothing, warm boots, and waterproof gear will make your experience more pleasant. Since the tour involves long days outdoors, comfort and weather-appropriate clothing are key.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for beginners eager to learn wildlife photography, as well as experienced shutterbugs looking for unique subjects. Nature enthusiasts who want to witness and photograph one of the Midwest’s most impressive wildlife events will find this tour rewarding.
It’s also suitable for those who value small group settings and personal attention. If you’re willing to invest in a guided, hands-on experience that balances wildlife viewing with photography instruction, this trip delivers both.
The Sum Up
The Saint Joseph: Missouri Eagle Waterfowl Photography Tour offers an authentic, well-organized chance to witness and photograph one of North America’s most striking winter wildlife spectacles. With expert guidance, prime locations, and a small group setting, it’s a solid choice for anyone interested in nature photography and wildlife observation.
While it requires a bit of planning—lodging, food, and gear are not included—the experience’s value lies in the quality of wildlife encounters and personalized instruction. It’s a fantastic opportunity to improve your photography skills, see incredible birds in action, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
This tour shines brightest for adventurers who appreciate the outdoors, are prepared for winter conditions, and are eager for a close-up view of nature’s soaring, swarming winter residents. If that sounds appealing, you’ll find it hard to beat the combination of excitement, education, and stunning scenery.
FAQ
What is included in the tour price?
You’ll get a guided two-day wildlife photography experience, led by Terry Nunn, with access to prime eagle and waterfowl locations, and photography tips.
Do I need to bring my own camera?
Yes, participants are asked to bring their own camera and binoculars. The experience is geared toward photographers wanting to capture these birds in action.
Is lodging included?
No, lodging is not included. There are numerous hotels in St. Joseph, MO, about 30 minutes from the meeting point, which you should arrange separately.
Where is the meeting point?
The tour starts at the parking lot of the visitor center outside St. Joseph, MO.
How physically demanding is the tour?
While the tour involves outdoor activities in winter, it’s mainly about standing, walking, and photo-taking. A reasonable level of mobility and winter clothing are recommended.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in planning your trip.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or simply a nature lover eager to see North America’s majestic birds, this Missouri eagle waterfowl tour promises a memorable, picture-perfect experience.
You can check availability for your dates here: