Bald eagles are thriving in Georgia, with a record-breaking number of 229 nest territories counted in the state’s first statewide survey in five years. However, it is important to note that bald eagles are not found in South Georgia, as they primarily nest in coastal areas, southwest Georgia, the east/northeast region, north/northwest, and the southeast region of the state.

Where Do Bald Eagles Nest in Georgia?

According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), bald eagles in Georgia primarily nest in the following regions:

• Coastal region (about a third of Georgia’s eagle nests)
• Southwest Georgia
• East/Northeast region
• North/Northwest region
• Southeast region

The DNR monitors eagle nesting by helicopter twice a year, focusing on finding nests in use during the first round of flights and gauging how the nests fared in the second round.

Bald Eagle Population in Georgia

Image source: Pexels by Frank Cone

The bald eagle population in Georgia has shown a remarkable rebound in the last 50 years, with more than 200 occupied nest territories annually since 2015. In 2022, 227 eagles fledged from these nests, indicating a productivity rate of almost 1.6 per nest.

However, the coastal region, home to about a third of Georgia’s eagle nests, experienced a decline in nest success due to the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, with fewer than half of the nests fledging at least one young.

Reporting Bald Eagle Nests

The public is encouraged to report eagle nests to the Georgia DNR via their online form or by phone. This information helps the agency monitor the bald eagle population and ensure the continued success of these majestic birds in the state.

Bald Eagle Habitat and Behavior

Bald eagles are known for their distinctive white head and tail feathers, as well as their impressive wingspan of up to 8 feet. They are primarily found near large bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and coastal areas, where they can easily hunt for fish, their primary food source.

Bald eagles are also known for their impressive nesting habits. They often build their nests high up in tall trees or on cliffs, and they can return to the same nest year after year, adding to it over time. These nests can grow to be quite large, sometimes reaching up to 10 feet in diameter and weighing several hundred pounds.

Bald Eagle Conservation Efforts

The bald eagle was once listed as an endangered species in the United States, but thanks to conservation efforts, the population has rebounded significantly. In 2007, the bald eagle was removed from the Endangered Species List, but it is still protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

In Georgia, the DNR works to monitor and protect the state’s bald eagle population, conducting surveys and working to educate the public about these majestic birds. The public can also play a role in conservation efforts by reporting any eagle nests they may come across.

Conclusion

While bald eagles are thriving in many parts of Georgia, they are not found in the state’s southernmost region. The birds primarily nest in coastal areas, southwest Georgia, the east/northeast region, north/northwest, and the southeast region of the state. By reporting any eagle nests they may come across, the public can help the Georgia DNR continue to monitor and protect these iconic birds.

References:
– https://georgiawildlife.com/dnr-bald-eagles-set-nesting-record-georgia
– https://www.wuga.org/local-news/2022-07-25/bald-eagle-populations-soar-in-georgia
– https://www.gpb.org/news/2022/08/02/bald-eagles-are-nesting-in-record-numbers-in-georgia-0