WEST ORANGE, N.J. — The bald eagle, a symbol of American freedom and strength, is experiencing a remarkable resurgence. After being placed on the endangered species list, the national bird has made a significant recovery since the early 2000s, with various states, including New Jersey, recently declaring it no longer endangered. This change reflects not only a biological uplift but also a cultural celebration of these majestic birds.
In December, President Joe Biden signed a new law formally recognizing the bald eagle as the country’s national bird, a clarification many believed was already established. Recently, New Jersey joined a growing number of states to remove the bald eagle from its endangered list, reflecting a strong comeback for these iconic raptors, which numbered barely a few in the state decades ago.
The return of the bald eagle is a complex success story primarily linked to the ban on DDT, a harmful insecticide that led to the thinning of eagle eggshells. In the 1980s, New Jersey housed just one nesting pair, while today there are around 300. The ban implemented in 1972 marked a turning point, allowing conservationists to take action by importing eagles from stable populations, including those in Canada. They employed hatchery techniques, like substituting eagle eggs with artificial ones to increase the chances of survival for the young birds.
Kathy Clark, who leads New Jersey’s Endangered and Nongame Species Program, has witnessed the transformation firsthand. She emphasizes that the story of the bald eagle is a valuable lesson in conservation efforts. “They are one of the few animals that nearly went extinct yet have come back remarkably well,” she stated. The bald eagles have proved remarkably adaptable, thriving in various environments, including densely populated areas across New Jersey.
Clark shared an anecdote about an eaglet found wandering through a suburban neighborhood, expressing initial concern over its safety. To her relief, a year later, the same eagle was spotted alive and well, a testament to its ability to navigate human environments. “Those birds have an attitude. They are Jersey birds,” she observed with enthusiasm.
While the resurgence of the bald eagle is a positive development, it is not without challenges. Jilian Fazio from the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo reported that many eagles suffer injuries from collisions with vehicles. One wounded eagle named Freedom now resides at the zoo due to an injury rendering him unreleasable. Habitat conservation and clean water, crucial for their fish-heavy diet, continue to be pressing issues, especially in light of the ongoing avian influenza outbreaks.
The recent elevation of the bald eagle’s status has sparked greater public interest. Senator Amy Klobuchar, who sponsored the recent legislation, noted that the formal acknowledgment of the bald eagle as the national bird had been overlooked, given its existing presence on the national seal. Her collaboration with Native American and veteran communities helped garner widespread support for the bill, which passed through the typically contentious legislative process without opposition. The bald eagle holds spiritual significance for many Native American cultures, symbolizing strength and resilience.
The eagle’s role as a national symbol aids in its conservation, as they are classified as an “umbrella species.” Their need for expansive territories and clean waterways supports a broader ecosystem, benefitting numerous lesser-known species. Clark remarked on the deep connection many Americans feel with bald eagles, noting that witnessing one in the wild can be a profound experience.
Dan Day, an avid bird-watcher, expressed the thrill of encountering bald eagles in his adopted New Jersey. Previously, he had never seen a bald eagle during his childhood in Cleveland. Now, as a local and Philadelphia Eagles supporter, he often ventures out with binoculars, delighted by their presence. “Seeing one really makes your day,” he said, highlighting the joy these magnificent birds can bring.
While the resurgence is encouraging, experts urge the public to enjoy watching bald eagles from a distance to ensure their safety. The effort to rescue and conserve species is fraught with challenges and uncertainties. “I’ll never forget how close we were to losing them; saving them is ongoing work,” Clark concluded, reminding everyone of the fragile balance of conservation.
