New Eagle Survey Data Released

The bald eagle was removed from the Endangered Species List in mid-2007. It'll be important to see how its numbers fare. The USGS and other agencies and groups released an annual report on wintering eagle populations on Jan. 10, 2008, providing extensive information that can be localized for your audience.

The new report analyzes trends over the past decade or two for 746 routes in 43 states. There are significant differences around the country. Northeastern and Midwestern states tended to see the largest increases, in the range of 3-10% annually. There were consistent annual declines of about 1-2% in the Southwest, and there was little change in the South. Researchers said the shifts could be due to factors such as climate change, alterations in habitat, shifts in pesticide usage, and other influences.

To get the nitty-gritty for your area, see USGS' Jan. 10, 2008, release and the Midwinter Bald Eagle Count Web Site.

The latest winter field survey was completed Jan. 16, 2008, and local participants may be able to provide current information that will flesh out your story.

For more information on the eagle and its delisting, see the TipSheet of Dec. 6, 2006.