The Berkshire Evening Eagle And All.

The Bald Eagle is a large, powerful bird that has been the national symbol of the United States since 1782. It is a member of the Accipitridae family and is found near large bodies of water throughout North America. Here are some key facts about the Bald Eagle:

EAGLE BEHAVIOR & HABITAT

SIZE: 3 feet in length, 6-7 feet in wingspan, and 10-14 pounds in weight.
HABITAT: Found near large bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and coastlines.
DIET: Primarily feeds on fish, but also eats other small animals and carrion.
CONSERVATION STATUS: Listed as a species of Low Concern, but was once endangered due to habitat destruction, hunting, and pesticide use.

INTERESTING BEHAVIORS

Bald Eagles are known for their impressive eyesight, which allows them to spot fish up to a mile away. They are also skilled thieves, and have been known to steal food from other birds.
NESTING: Bald Eagles build large nests, called eyries, which can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and measure 10 feet wide and 6 feet deep. These nests are often used for many years and may be added to over time.
MATING: Bald Eagles form long-term monogamous relationships, with some pairs staying together for up to 20 years.
BREEDING: Bald Eagles typically breed between March and May, with the female laying 1-4 eggs per clutch.
HUNTING: Bald Eagles are skilled hunters, using their sharp talons and strong wings to swoop down on their prey. They can also steal food from other birds, such as osprey and hawks.
MIGRATION: While some Bald Eagles are migratory, others are resident birds that stay in their year-round territories. Some Bald Eagles migrate from Canada and Alaska to the contiguous United States each winter, while others remain in their year-round territories. Those that migrate typically travel in large groups, often with other species such as osprey and hawks.
HUNTING TECHNIQUES: Bald Eagles are skilled hunters, using a variety of techniques to catch their prey. Some of their methods include:
DIVING: Bald Eagles will swoop down from high altitudes, using their sharp talons to snatch fish right out of the water.
PERCHING: Bald Eagles will perch above a body of water, scanning for fish and other prey below.
STEALING: Bald Eagles will steal food from other birds, such as osprey and hawks.
PREY: Bald Eagles primarily feed on fish, but will also eat other small animals such as; rabbits, squirrels, mice, and carrion.

The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and The Migratory Bird Treaty Act Overview

The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA) and The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) are two federal laws of the United States that protect birds, including eagles. Here's a brief overview of each act:

BALD EAGLE CONSERVATION STATUS

The Bald Eagle is no longer considered an endangered species in the United States. In 2007, the federal government removed the Bald Eagle from its endangered species list, and in 2024, New Jersey removed the Bald Eagle from its endangered species list, citing a remarkable comeback for the species.

Regardless, the Bald Eagle's status remains of "special concern" in New Jersey, and the species is still protected under The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Additionally, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed listing three subspecies of the Bald Eagle as endangered and two species as threatened under The Endangered Species Act.

It's worth noting that while the Bald Eagle is no longer considered endangered, conservation efforts are still necessary to protect the species and its habitats. Ongoing monitoring, habitat preservation, and public education are key to ensuring the species' continued success.

THE PROTECION LAWS: Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act

The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA):
was enacted in 1940 to protect Bald Eagles and Golden Eagles
The Law prohibits the taking, possession, sale, purchase, barter, transportation, and exportation of bald and golden eagles, including their parts, nests, and eggs

The Law allows for certain exceptions, such as: •

Permits for scientific research, education, and conservation • Permits for Native American tribes for cultural and spiritual purposes • Permits for the use of eagle parts in traditional crafts and ceremonies

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA):

was enacted in 1918 to implement international treaties with Canada, Mexico, and Japan to protect migratory birds
The Law prohibits the taking, possession, sale, purchase, barter, transportation, and exportation of migratory birds, including their parts, nests, and eggs
Covers over 800 species of birds, including waterfowl, songbirds, raptors, and game birds
The Law allows for certain exceptions, such as: • Permits for hunting and trapping under specific regulations • Permits for scientific research, education, and conservation • Permits for the use of bird parts in traditional crafts and ceremonies

KEY PROVISIONS & PENALTIES

Both acts have similar provisions and penalties for violating the laws. Some key points include:

Penalties: Up to $100,000 in fines and/or up to one year in prison for individuals, and up to $200,000 in fines for organizations
Permits: Required for activities such as hunting, trapping, and possession of bird parts
Reporting: Required for the sale, purchase, and transportation of bird parts
Import and Export: Prohibited without a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service