Bald eagles, revered as a national symbol, are a prominent part of Maryland’s wildlife. These majestic birds are found throughout the state, making Maryland a significant location for their population.
Bald Eagle Presence and Recovery in Maryland
Maryland’s bald eagle population has experienced a remarkable recovery from a historical decline. In the mid-20th century, the pesticide DDT severely impacted bald eagle numbers. This chemical entered the food chain, causing eagles to lay eggs with thin shells that would break during incubation. Maryland’s eagle population was significantly affected, with only 44 nesting pairs recorded in the state in 1977, representing an all-time low.
Following the ban of DDT in 1972 and dedicated conservation efforts, bald eagle populations began to rebound. The Chesapeake Bay region now hosts one of the largest concentrations of bald eagles in the lower 48 states. By 2004, the number of breeding pairs in Maryland had risen to 390. The species was federally delisted from endangered status in 2007. Recent estimates from 2025 suggest there are over 1,400 breeding pairs in Maryland.
Key Habitats and Viewing Locations
Bald eagles prefer habitats near large bodies of water, such as rivers, bays, and reservoirs, which provide abundant fish, their primary food source. They also require tall trees for nesting and perching, often selecting pines or hardwoods at the edge of wooded areas. Maryland’s diverse waterways and extensive forests offer ideal conditions for these raptors.
Several locations in Maryland are well-known for bald eagle sightings. The Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, including the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers, are prime areas. The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge on the Eastern Shore boasts the largest breeding population of bald eagles on the East Coast north of Florida. The Conowingo Dam on the Susquehanna River is another popular spot, especially from November through January, when large numbers of eagles gather to feed on fish. When viewing eagles, it is important to maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them, using binoculars or spotting scopes for closer observation.
Conservation and Protection Efforts
Various conservation and protection efforts support the continued presence of bald eagles in Maryland. Federally, bald eagles are protected under several laws. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (1940) prohibits the “taking” of bald and golden eagles, their parts, nests, or eggs without a permit.
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (1918) makes it unlawful to harm or sell migratory birds, their eggs, parts, or nests, including bald eagles. The Lacey Act (1900) makes it a federal offense to traffic in illegally obtained wildlife. These federal statutes provide a legal framework for safeguarding eagle populations. Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) monitors and manages the state’s eagle populations, often coordinating with volunteer groups to track nests and population trends. Habitat preservation efforts, such as the Chesapeake Bay Protection Act of 1984, which established protections for areas near tidal waters, contribute to the eagles’ environment.