Every year at mid-winter the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), specifically the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, conducts a bald eagle survey as part of a larger nationwide survey. The purpose of the survey is to quantify the bald eagle population as well as identifying nests.

 

In recent years the survey has found that fewer than 40 birds were sometimes residing in the state during the winter. The just-completed 2010 survey found a record 120 bald eagles residing in Delaware; specifically, it found 77 adult birds and 43 immature. The total population includes resident nesting birds as well as winter visitor bald eagles. Even more encouraging news is that the survey found two new bald eagle nests, raising the number of eagle territories in Delaware to 60.

 

According to the DNREC, "during the winter, Delaware is second home for some bald eagles whose breeding grounds are farther north. These visitors come south to take advantage of food resources ranging from fish to carrion that may not be as plentiful in their northern territories in the winter."

 

The Division of Fish and Wildlife had been receiving reports from the general public of up to 40 of the birds in one place at the same time. The even more encouraging news from the survey is that the actual number of bald eagles is probably higher than the tallied 120, due to survey limitations. The survey does not cover parts of western Sussex County and the area north of the C&D Canal in New Castle County, both likely areas where more birds are "overwintering."

 

In 2007, after 40 years classified as endangered, bald eagles were federally de-listed as an endangered species. However, in Delaware the birds are still listed as "endangered" because they still face many threats. According to the DNREC, "bald eagles continue to face many threats such as disturbance, pollutants and habitat loss." Passing cars are one of the biggest threats to Delaware's bald eagles. The birds frequently feed on road-killed animals and are vulnerable because they do not consider passing vehicles a threat. According to DNREC Wilflife Biologist Anthony Gonzon, "In October 2009, a bald eagle was struck and killed by car while feeding along a roadside near Seaford, so motorists need to be especially aware of their possible presence on the roadways."

 

While the news of the population increase is encouraging, Delawareans still need to be vigilant. While 120 is a great improvement from less than 40, the population is still very fragile and the loss of a few or even one bird can be very harmful. Anyone seeking more information on the survey can contact DNREC Biologist Anthony Gonzon at 302-653-2880.