The Bald Eagle, America’s national symbol, faced endangered status a little over a decade ago, but things have turned around for the better.
The Bald Eagle is now flourishing in 48 states.
Matthew Daly reports at the Associated Press:
US report: Bald eagle populations soar in lower 48 statesThe number of American bald eagles has quadrupled since 2009, with more than 300,000 birds soaring over the lower 48 states, government scientists said in a report Wednesday.The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said bald eagles, the national symbol that once teetered on the brink of extinction, have flourished in recent years, growing to more than 71,400 nesting pairs and an estimated 316,700 individual birds.Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, in her first public appearance since being sworn in last week, hailed the eagle’s recovery and noted that the majestic, white-headed bird has always been considered sacred to Native American tribes and the United States generally.“The strong return of this treasured bird reminds us of our nation’s shared resilience and the importance of being responsible stewards of our lands and waters that bind us together,″ said Haaland, the first Native American Cabinet secretary.Bald eagles reached an all-time low of 417 known nesting pairs in 1963 in the lower 48 states. But after decades of protection, including banning the pesticide DDT and placement of the eagle on the endangered species list in more than 40 states, the bald eagle population has continued to grow.
Lexi Lonas of The Hill has more:
“After decades of protection, the banning of the pesticide DDT, and conservation efforts with numerous partners, the bald eagle population has flourished, growing to more than 71,400 nesting pairs,” the agency said .“The recovery of the bald eagle is one of the most well-known conservation success stories of all time,” Service Principal Deputy Director Martha Williams said. “The Service continues to work with our partners in state and federal agencies, tribes, non-government organizations and with private landowners to ensure that our nation’s symbol continues to flourish.”
If you have ever seen a Bald Eagle up close, you may have been surprised by its size. They’re huge birds.
They also make a particular sound. A family took the video below in Alaska who found over 30 birds behind their house during salmon season.
Featured image via YouTube.
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