No, there are no golden eagles in Hagerstown, Maryland. The bird species that can be found in Hagerstown and its surrounding areas are primarily those that prefer temperate mid-Atlantic environments, such as the bald eagle.
The Bald Eagle’s Comeback in Maryland
The bald eagle, which is native to Maryland, has made a remarkable comeback in the state, with hundreds of pairs nesting along sea coasts, marshes, and rivers. This resurgence is a testament to the power of conservation efforts.
In the 19th century, illegal hunting decimated the population of bald eagles, leading to a decline in their numbers across the country. However, laws such as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (1918) and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (1940) sought to end the common practice of commercial trapping and killing of the birds.
Despite these efforts, the bald eagle continued to decline due to the use of the pesticide DDT, which accumulated up the food chain and made eagle eggs too brittle to hatch. In 1972, DDT was banned in the U.S., and in 1973, the Endangered Species Act was passed, leading to a resurgence in the population of bald eagles.
Bald Eagles in Hagerstown and Surrounding Areas
Image source: Golden Eagle by Atillak
Today, the bald eagle can be found nesting in 20 of 23 counties in Maryland, including Hagerstown, and is easily seen in Blackwater and Patuxent National Wildlife Refuges or online on various eagle cams, the closest being the one at the National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, W.Va.
Bald Eagle Sightings in Hagerstown
Hagerstown and its surrounding areas are known for their bald eagle sightings. The birds can often be seen soaring over the Potomac River, perched on trees, or hunting for fish in the area’s waterways. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts flock to the region to catch a glimpse of these majestic birds.
Bald Eagle Conservation Efforts
The bald eagle’s journey from endangered to abundant is a testament to the power of conservation efforts. The Endangered Species Act, along with the banning of DDT, has played a crucial role in the recovery of the bald eagle population in Maryland and across the country.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while golden eagles are not native to Hagerstown, the area is home to a thriving population of bald eagles, which have made a remarkable comeback thanks to conservation efforts. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can enjoy the sight of these magnificent birds soaring over the Potomac River and other local waterways.
References:
– Return of a Maryland Native: The Bald Eagle Story
– Golden Eagle Foods
– Hagerstown Bird Watching
– Hagerstown Holds Off Golden Eagle Rally to Win
– Golden Eagle or Juvenile Bald Eagle? Maryland, USA
