Tag: midwinter eagle survey

Surveying for Eagles in New Jersey

Posted on by larissasmith
Results of the Midwinter Bald Eagle Count

by Larissa Smith, Biologist/Volunteer manager

Bald Eagle pair © George Cevera

In January 43 states participated in the Midwinter Bald Eagle Count including New Jersey which has participated since 1979. This year in NJ ~70 volunteers surveyed for eagles the weekend of January 14th & 15th.   The purpose of the survey is to monitor bald eagle populations. Since the survey takes place at the start of the NJ eagle nesting season possible new pairs and nests are often found.  New Jersey volunteers also map eagle activity and these data are used to delineate critical eagle wintering habitat.

PRELIMINARY RESULTS
  • 273 eagles in Southern NJ
  •   44 eagles in Northern NJ
  • 317 eagles total

This is a great time of year to get out and see some eagles.  Not only are the resident nesting eagle pairs around but also wintering eagles.

For more details on the National Midwinter Bald Eagle count go to: http://ocid.nacse.org/nbii/eagles/history.php

Thank you to all the volunteers who surveyed!

 

 

Volunteers Survey NJ’s Eagle Population

Posted on by larissasmith
Midwinter Eagle Survey

by Larissa Smith, Biologist and Volunteer Manager

An immature eagle at Forsythe NWR in Oceanville. © Eric C. Reuter

The New Jersey midwinter eagle survey takes place each January and is part of the National midwinter eagle survey to monitor population levels.  Another benefit of the midwinter eagle survey is that new eagle nests and nesting pairs are often located.  The target dates for the 2011  survey was January 8th and 9th.  Approximately 75 volunteers participated throughout the state. This year the snowy winter weather on Saturday did  effect  the count due to the heavy snow fall at times and low visibility.  Sunday was clear and sunny which allowed volunteers to get out and survey.

Preliminary results:
  • 194 eagles – southern NJ
  • 24 eagles – northern NJ reservoirs
  • 17 eagles – Delaware Water Gap
  • A total of 235 eagles were observed this year.

This total is lower than 2010s count of 333 eagles which is in large part due to the weather. Full results will be released soon.

Thank you to all the volunteers who braved the snow, cold and windy weather!