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Bald Eagles: From Endangered to Thriving

In the journey from being a symbol of American pride to facing near extinction, the bald eagle is experiencing a renaissance. This majestic bird, often seen soaring against expansive blue skies, has made a remarkable recovery since the early 2000s. After being removed from the federal endangered species list, its numbers have risen significantly, prompting numerous states to follow suit.

Recently, legislation signed by President Joe Biden has solidified the bald eagle’s status as the national bird of the United States—a move that many thought had already occurred. In January, New Jersey officially declared the bald eagle no longer endangered, a significant achievement considering that only a single nesting pair resided in the state decades ago. Moreover, with football fans on the edge of their seats, it’s noteworthy that the Philadelphia Eagles are competing for a championship in the upcoming Super Bowl.

The recovery story of the bald eagle is intricate and multifaceted. A significant factor in their resurgence was the banning of DDT, a chemical insecticide that adversely affected the species by causing eggshell thinning, leading to a dramatic decline in their population. Following the prohibition of the pesticide in 1972, efforts began to stabilize and grow eagle populations. Conservationists introduced eaglets from stable populations in Canada and employed innovative techniques, such as substituting real eggs with artificial ones in nests, allowing for safer hatching and nurturing of the young.

According to Kathy Clark, the leader of New Jersey’s Endangered and Nongame Species Program, the bald eagle serves as a success story for conservation efforts on the continent. Maia Edwards, the science director at the American Bald Eagle Foundation in Alaska, emphasizes the importance of sharing this narrative to inspire future conservation initiatives. Clark notes the adaptability of these magnificent birds, which now thrive across densely populated areas of New Jersey—from suburban regions near New York to the coastal wetlands in the south.

One particularly memorable instance involves a fledgling eagle found wandering a suburban street, now identified as a juvenile that ultimately grew to maturity. The challenges these birds face are evident, particularly in urban settings where vehicle collisions pose a significant risk. Jilian Fazio, director of the Turtle Back Zoo, shares that the zoo frequently treats eagles injured in traffic incidents. Among them is a male eagle named Freedom, whose injuries prevent him from being released back into the wild.

While the bald eagle is soaring in population, it still encounters several threats. Preservation of their habitats, coupled with access to clean water—which is vital for their fish-based diet—remains a critical concern. Additionally, the recent outbreak of avian influenza has raised alarms among officials, who continue to monitor the situation closely.

The bird’s elevation as the national bird, a milestone achieved through collaborative efforts among lawmakers, Native American groups, and veterans, reflects a growing appreciation for this iconic species. Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota noted the cultural significance of the eagle, with many Native American traditions cherishing the bird as a symbol of strength and resilience. Experts regard the bald eagle as an “umbrella species,” implying that its conservation indirectly supports a multitude of other wildlife reliant on similar habitats.

As the bald eagle reclaims its place as a national icon, it sparks memories and connections for many Americans. Senator Andy Kim, hailing from the region of the Philadelphia Eagles, treasures the memory of attending a recent NFC championship game with his sons while highlighting the timing of the eagle’s official designation as America’s national bird. For birdwatchers like Dan Day, witnessing a bald eagle is a magical experience, contrasting with a childhood spent in Cleveland without ever seeing one.

While enthusiasm for spotting these birds grows, experts urge the public to respect their space. Clark from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection underscores the complexity and financial burden of safeguarding species on the brink of extinction, reinforcing the value of the bald eagle’s journey and the lessons learned along the way.

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