Yes, there are bald eagles in Delaware. The bald eagle population in Delaware has been increasing significantly in recent years and is expected to continue to grow. Every winter, up to 150-200 bald eagles migrate to the region, seeking a reliable food source and undisturbed habitat to survive the cold winter months.
Bald Eagles in the Delaware River Basin
The Delaware River Basin provides prime habitat for bald eagles, with the open water on the Delaware and Hudson Rivers and the associated tributaries and reservoirs offering a reliable source of fish for the eagles. This is a major draw for the bald eagles, who migrate nearly 900 miles from their breeding grounds to winter in this region.
Bald Eagle Viewing Locations in the Upper Delaware River Watershed
In the Upper Delaware River watershed, well-marked viewing sites are located on the river in Narrowsburg and Minisink Ford, NY, and in Lackawaxen, PA. A viewing blind is located on the Mongaup Falls Reservoir, and a viewing area is marked on the Rio Reservoir (Forestburgh, NY). These designated viewing areas offer excellent opportunities for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to observe the majestic bald eagles in their natural habitat.
Bald Eagle Population Growth in the Delaware River Basin
Image source: Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) in Kachemak Bay, Alaska
The bald eagle population in the Delaware River Basin has rebounded dramatically in recent years. In Pennsylvania, over 300 nesting bald eagles were documented in 2019, and in New York State, close to 500 nests were recorded in the same year. This significant increase in the bald eagle population is a testament to the conservation efforts and the availability of suitable habitat in the region.
Bald Eagles as Fish Eaters
Bald eagles are known to be predominantly fish eaters, and their presence in the Delaware River Basin is closely tied to the availability of their primary food source. The open water on the Delaware and Hudson Rivers, as well as the associated tributaries and reservoirs, provide a reliable source of fish for the eagles, making the region an attractive destination for their winter migration.
Bald Eagles and the Delaware Highlands
The Delaware Highlands region, which encompasses parts of Pennsylvania and New York, has become a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts seeking to observe the bald eagles in their natural habitat. The region’s well-marked viewing sites and designated viewing areas offer excellent opportunities to witness the majestic birds in their element.
Bald Eagle Conservation Efforts in Delaware
The increase in the bald eagle population in Delaware is a testament to the successful conservation efforts in the region. Agencies and organizations, such as the Delaware River Basin Commission and the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, have worked tirelessly to protect the bald eagles’ habitat and ensure the continued growth of their population.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Delaware is home to a significant population of bald eagles, with up to 150-200 eagles migrating to the region every winter. The open water on the Delaware and Hudson Rivers and the associated tributaries and reservoirs provide a reliable source of fish for the eagles, making the region an attractive destination for their winter migration. With the bald eagle population in the Delaware River Basin continuing to grow, the future looks bright for these majestic birds in the state of Delaware.
References:
– Bald Eagles Soaring in Delaware
– Wintering Eagles in the Delaware Highlands
– Bald Eagles in the Delaware River Basin
