ODNR: Winter is the peak time to get a peek at bald eagles

If you, your family, and friends have ever wanted to see America’s national bird in its natural surroundings, there’s no better time than January and February according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

The Division of Wildlife says that bald eagles begin courtship and nest-building activity in the winter months, making now one of the best times to view them.

 The bald eagle was once an endangered species, with only four nesting pairs in Ohio in 1979. Thanks to partnerships between the ODNR Division of Wildlife, Ohio zoos, wildlife rehabilitation facilities, concerned landowners, and conservationists, its population increased.

With an estimated 910 nesting pairs statewide in 2023, eagles can be seen near their preferred aquatic habitats such as rivers, wetlands, and lakes. The absence of foliage makes winter a great time to spot eagles improving their large nests along waterways.

 Bald eagles in Ohio typically lay eggs and incubate in February and March, nesting in large trees such as sycamores, oaks, and cottonwoods. Meanwhile, frozen lakes and rivers force the birds to expand their hunting grounds in search of fish and carrion, their foods of choice.

Lake Erie and other large waterbodies host the highest number of eagles because of easy access to food resources.

Excellent viewing opportunities can be found at several inland locations such as Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area in Trumbull County.

In 2020, there were 26 bald eagle nests in Trumbull County, more than the number of nests in 84 other Ohio counties.   Mahoning County had seven nests and Columbiana County had four.

Winter provides viewing opportunities for immature bald eagles as well as adults. The white head and tail of the adult bird contrast sharply with its dark body, a distinctive feature used to identify the species.

An immature bird is more difficult to identify and has mottled brown and white plumage for four or five years before attaining the recognizable field marks of an adult. A good pair of binoculars or even a spotting scope is recommended to spot birds over long distances.

Ohioans can report active bald eagle nest sites at wildohio.gov or on the HuntFish OH mobile app. By reporting locations when you find a nest, you help Division of Wildlife biologists estimate eagle population dynamics and monitor trends, ensuring this and other species continue to do well in the Buckeye State.

Bald eagles are protected under both state law and the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, making it illegal to disturb bald eagles.

When viewing, remember to respect the bird’s space and stay at least 100 yards away. Disturbing bald eagles at the nest site could lead the pair to abandon the eggs.