KAUKAUNA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – After decades of growth and four years setting records, the population for nesting Bald Eagles in Wisconsin is leveling off a bit.
With a wingspan of about seven feet, an American Bald Eagle swoops onto a branch near the 1,000 Islands Environmental Center in Kaukauna. The big birds typically gather in winter along the Fox River here, looking for open water to fish.
Today, pretty easily, you can come down and probably see about a dozen to two dozen eagles, if you’re looking out for them,” said Debbie Nowak, 1,000 Islands Environmental Center Director and Naturalist.
Nowak says people and scientists are looking out for the birds. The annual Department of Natural Resources survey from the ground and the air indicates in 2019 there were 1,684 active nests in Wisconsin. In 2018, there were a record of 1,695 nests. That turns out to be a drop of 11 active nests around the state. Outagamie County currently has 11 nests. That’s the same number as the year before. Scientists say the 1972 ban of the chemical D.D.T. is a big factor in the birds’ success. The pesticide made eggs thin, causing many nests to fail.
“We are improving habitat. We are improving the environment. We’re allowing these eagles, and many other birds and animals in general, we’re allowing them space and the quality that they need to have a lot of populations rebounding. I think that’s a great example with the Bald Eagle,” said Nowak.
Nowak says winter bird watchers should dress for the weather and be patient.
“Make sure you view from a distance. Try to not startle them or flush them off of their food, or out of their roost. That way they can conserve energy, and they’ll continue to thrive,” she said.
There are events around the area celebrating our nation’s symbol.
That includes Eagle Days at the Thousand Islands Environmental Center in Kaukauna on January 25th.
