Florida Celebrates American Bald Eagle Day

TALLAHASSEE, FL — National American Bald Eagle Day is cause to celebrate in the Sunshine State. That’s according to the folks at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission who say concerted conservation efforts have paid off for these creatures in a big way.

“The Sunshine State is home to one of the largest bald eagle populations in the lower 48 states, making eagles one of our state’s greatest conservation success stories,” FWC posted on its Facebook page Tuesday in honor of the June 20 observance. “From only 88 active eagle nests in 1973 to about 1,500 nests today, we have come a long way with eagle conservation.”

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To raise awareness for these feathered Floridians, Gov. Rick Scott even proclaimed June 20 American Bald Eagle Day in the Sunshine State, FWC noted.

Bald eagles are now found in nests throughout the state. Fort Myers’ Harriet and M15 reached celebrity status over the holidays in 2016 as thousands of people across the globe tuned into a video live stream to wait for the arrival of the couple's eaglet. Baby E9 captivated audiences well into the spring.

Folks who want to do a little eagle watching on their own are advised to follow “eagle watching etiquette closely.” FWC officials recommend people:

• Use binoculars or telephoto lenses rather than venturing too close to a nest
• Avoid standing directly under a nest or in close view of an eagle, about 330 feet away is optimum
• If pulling off the road to view, remain near the vehicle
• Avoid making loud or sudden noises
• Move quietly to designated observation areas if there are any
• Do not attempt to get eagles to fly or stand up
• Be sure to ask permission before going onto private property to eagle watch
• Do not bring pets along for eagle-watching adventures

FWC maintains an online database of nests reported throughout the Sunshine State. To find the closest nest to your community, visit FWC online. More information about eagles in Florida is also available via the FWC website and on the agency's Facebook page.

Photo courtesy of FWC via Flickr