Today Americans celebrate their national freedom, and no bird better symbolizes that than a soaring bald eagle. Seeing one of these powerful raptors is even easier in Florida now, thanks to a strong recovery of the state's nesting eagle population. According to First Coast News, there are more than 1,400 active eagle nests in Florida this year, a drastic difference from the fewer than 90 nests recorded in 1973 when the birds were still considered endangered.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Audubon Florida have worked for decades to monitor and assist the state's eagle population, and a joint venture that began in 2008 has included citizen scientists to monitor nests. Osceola and Polk counties in central Florida have the highest nesting populations, but are also some of the most heavily populated areas. Appropriate habitat conservation measures will be necessary to help the eagle populations continue to increase.
Have you seen a wild bald eagle? Share your sightings in the comments!
Bald Eagle
Photo © Greg
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