Yes, there are bald eagles in Onslow County, North Carolina. The New River and its vicinity are sometimes inhabited by these majestic birds, as evidenced by recent sightings and wildlife reports.

Bald Eagles in Onslow County: A Closer Look

Onslow County, located in the coastal region of North Carolina, is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the iconic bald eagle. These birds, once endangered, have made a remarkable comeback in the United States, and Onslow County is no exception.

According to the Wikipedia page for Onslow County, the New River and its surrounding areas are known to be inhabited by bald eagles, among other wildlife species. This information is further corroborated by eBird data, which shows a recent sighting of a bald eagle in Onslow County on April 8, 2024.

The Center for Biological Diversity’s report on the bald eagle population in the lower 48 states and the District of Columbia also lists North Carolina as one of the states where bald eagles were once common in the coastal lowlands and at specific locations such as Knott’s Island, Currituck County, Roanoke Island, Cape Hatteras, Onslow County, and Bladen County.

Unique Opportunities for Birdwatching and Wildlife Photography

Image source: Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) in Kachemak Bay, Alaska

For nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, Onslow County offers a unique opportunity to observe bald eagles in their natural habitat. The New River, in particular, is known to attract these majestic birds, providing a picturesque backdrop for those interested in wildlife photography and outdoor exploration.

Bald Eagle Facts and Figures

The bald eagle is a truly impressive bird, with a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet (2.3 meters) and a weight of up to 14 pounds (6.35 kilograms). In 2007, the bald eagle population in the lower 48 states and the District of Columbia was estimated to be around 9,789 breeding pairs.

Despite their removal from the Endangered Species List in 2007, bald eagles remain protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Real-Life Incidents and Statistics

In 2021, a bald eagle was spotted in Onslow County with a tracking device attached to its leg. The bird had been released in Virginia as part of a conservation project and was tracked traveling over 1,000 miles to its wintering grounds in Onslow County, highlighting the importance of the region for these majestic birds.

Conclusion

Onslow County, North Carolina, is home to a thriving population of bald eagles, with the New River and its surrounding areas providing a suitable habitat for these iconic birds. For nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, Onslow County offers a unique opportunity to observe and appreciate these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.

References:
– Wikipedia: Onslow County, North Carolina
– eBird: Onslow County, North Carolina
– Center for Biological Diversity: Bald Eagle Population Report
– Our State: Onslow County – From the Country to the Coast
– Birds of North Carolina: Onslow County
– U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Bald Eagle Recovery
– WWAY3: Bald Eagle Spotted in Onslow County with Tracking Device