Lecompton, Kansas, was originally named Bald Eagle because so many bald eagles nested there each winter. By the 1950s and 1960s, pesticides harmed many eagles. The species became endangered, and eagles vanished from the state. In 1989, the first bald eagles returned to Kansas, building a nest at Clinton Lake southwest of Lawrence. Now, many places in Kansas have eagles and offer viewing opportunities. Visit Kansas in mid-January to mid-February for the best shot at seeing eagles.