Are Bald Eagles Endangered?

Are Bald Eagles Endangered?

Eagles are no longer endangered. Bald Eagles are easily distinguished by their proud white heads and powerful brown bodies. These birds are native to North America and were on the brink of extinction 40 years ago. However, Bald Eagles have made a remarkable recovery after the Endangered Species Act was enacted in the United States.

Identification

Male eagles are smaller than females, weighing a maximum of 10 pounds with a wingspan of 6 feet. Females often weigh up to 14 pounds and have 8 feet wingspans.

Habitat

To survive, eagles must have an abundance of food, a proper nesting place, and areas to safely perch. These birds are most often seen near lakes, rivers, and marshes. While fish are their primary source of food, eagles will also eat snakes, turtles, rabbits, and other small mammals.

Extinction

In 1940, Congress passed the Bald Eagle Protection Act, which was designed to save these majestic birds from extinction. This act placed these birds on the endangered species list, which made it unlawful to capture or kill eagles.

Recovery

In 1963, there were fewer than 500 pairs of nesting bald eagles. With the endangered species act in place, eagles have made a remarkable recovery. By the summer of 2007, Bald eagles were removed from the list of endangered species. While these birds are no longer considered threatened or endangered, it is illegal to harm eagles, their eggs, or their nests.

Resources

“Bald Eagle Fact Sheet.” U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Home. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Nov. 2012.  http://www.fws.gov/midwest/eagle/recovery/biologue.html

“Threatened and Endangered Species: Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus Fact Sheet | Montana NRCS.” Montana NRCS. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Nov. 2012. http://www.mt.nrcs.usda.gov/news/factsheets/baldeagle.html