Bald eagles are indeed present in Wisconsin, with the state being one of the top five in the U.S. for eagle population. This comeback is particularly remarkable considering that the bald eagle was once an endangered species, with the last known nesting in the state occurring in the 1880s.
The Recovery of Bald Eagles in Wisconsin
The recovery of bald eagles in Wisconsin can be attributed to various factors, including the ban on DDT in 1972, protections under the Endangered Species Act, and the efforts of organizations like the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Madison Audubon, and Milwaukee County Parks Department. As a result, the eagle population in the lower 48 states has quadrupled since 2007, with Wisconsin hosting more than 1,600 known active nests in 2019, a significant increase from the 108 nests recorded in the 1970s.
Factors Attracting Bald Eagles to Wisconsin
Image source: Pexels by Frank Cone
Eagles are particularly drawn to Wisconsin due to its abundant lakes, rivers, and protected forests, which provide ample opportunities for nesting and food sourcing. In winter, the state’s bodies of water, especially flowing rivers, attract migrating eagles from farther north, making Wisconsin a prime location for eagle watching.
Top Bald Eagle Watching Spots in Wisconsin
There are several designated spots for eagle watching in Wisconsin, including the Ferry Bluff State Natural Area, which limits access during roosting season to prevent disturbances. Viewing platforms, such as those in downtown Prairie du Sac, offer excellent opportunities for observing eagles, especially during the winter months when the bare trees make their perches more visible.
Online Resources for Bald Eagle Observation
For those unable to visit these locations in person, online resources such as the Raptor Resource Project’s Mississippi River flyway cam and the National Eagle Center’s Eaglewatch cam provide alternative ways to observe eagles in their natural habitat.
Bald Eagle Population Statistics in Wisconsin
| Year | Active Nests |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 108 |
| 2019 | 1,600+ |
The table above shows the significant increase in the number of active bald eagle nests in Wisconsin, from just 108 in the 1970s to over 1,600 in 2019, a testament to the success of conservation efforts in the state.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Wisconsin is home to a thriving bald eagle population, with numerous opportunities for eagle watching and conservation efforts. The state’s commitment to protecting and preserving these majestic birds is evident in the success of their recovery, making Wisconsin an ideal destination for both casual observers and dedicated birdwatchers alike.
References:
– Travel Wisconsin. (n.d.). Know Before You Go: Bald Eagle Watching in Wisconsin. Retrieved from https://www.travelwisconsin.com/article/birding/know-before-you-go-bald-eagles-watching-in-wisconsin
– Reddit. (2021, March 19). Occupied Bald Eagles Nests in Wisconsin, 1974 vs. 2019. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/wisconsin/comments/m87ko6/occupied_bald_eagles_nests_in_wisconsin_1974_vs/
– Heim, M. (2024, February 28). Here’s the best bald eagle watching on the Mississippi in Wisconsin. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Retrieved from https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/2024/02/28/heres-best-bald-eagle-watching-mississippi-wisconsin/72612067007/
– WPR. (2022, April 4). For the first time in decades, bald eagles begin to take up residence in Milwaukee County. Retrieved from https://www.wpr.org/animals/first-time-decades-bald-eagles-begin-take-residence-milwaukee-county
– Wisconsin DNR. (n.d.). Eagles in Wisconsin. Retrieved from https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/WildlifeHabitat/baldeagle.html
