2012 is a Record year for nesting bald eagles in NJ.

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NJ Bald Eagle population continues to increase.

by: Larissa Smith Wildlife Biologist/Volunteer Manager

Three chicks at the Kettle Creek nest © Alex Tongas

In 2012 a new record high of 135 eagle pairs were monitored during the nesting season. One hundred and nineteen of those were active which means they laid eggs.  A total of 165 young were produced this year and fledged (left the nest). That is 46 more than 2011’s 119 young produced.  Twenty-seven new eagle pairs were found this season, 15 in the south, 2 in central and 10 in northern NJ.  While all of these numbers are good news for NJ eagles they still need protection.  The two major threats that bald eagles in NJ face today are disturbance and habitat loss.

The NJ Bald Eagle Project has a dedicated group of volunteers who monitor nests throughout New Jersey.  They help to prevent disturbance at nest sites by educating the public about eagles.  The success of the eagle project is directly related to these wonderful volunteers.

Spruce Run Reservoir © A. W. Gumulak

More details on the 2012 nesting season will be available in the 2012 NJ Bald Eagle Project report.

 

 

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