PENNSYLVANIA - Not long ago, Pennsylvania's bald eagle numbers were alarmingly low; their remarkable recovery since being classified as endangered is genuinely unique. Thanks to the Pennsylvania Game Commission's pioneering reintroduction program, over 300 nesting pairs are back in Pennsylvania this year alone!
Pennsylvania Bald Eagles
The population of bald eagles in Pennsylvania is so robust that the Game Commission lifted its threat listing in 2014. There are numerous opportunities to observe them throughout Pennsylvania; two active nests can be found in Pittsburgh (Hayes and South Park). Some great locations for wintering bald eagles include Glendale Lake in Prince Gallitzin State Park at Patton, Shohola Lake near Murrysville in State Game Lands 180, and Delaware River/Delaware Water Gap, all prime spots!
Ultimately, the bald eagle's success in a region depends on improving environmental quality. Their success depends on abundant fish populations; thus, water and riparian forest quality play an essential role. Water pollution caused by agricultural pesticides and loss of trees along rivers were significant obstacles facing these birds in earlier parts of this century.
The Game Commission initiated its reintroduction program in 1983 after ten years of declining bald eagle numbers and their conservation status being classified as endangered. Their successful recovery is a testament to dedicated conservation efforts, education, and legal protections.
