Bald eagles are present in Ohio and represent one of the state’s most compelling conservation success stories. The striking raptor, instantly recognizable by its white head and dark body, is now a regular sight across the Ohio landscape. Their presence signals a significant environmental recovery, transforming them from a species on the brink of extirpation to a thriving population.
Status and Population Recovery
The bald eagle population in Ohio reached an alarming low point in 1979, with only four nesting pairs remaining. This decline was primarily due to the widespread use of the pesticide DDT, introduced in the 1940s. The chemical bioaccumulated in the eagles’ diet, causing reproductive failure where females laid eggs with shells too thin to survive incubation.
Following the 1972 ban on DDT and protection under the federal Endangered Species Act, Ohio initiated intensive conservation programs. These efforts included protecting remaining nesting sites and a captive breeding program that placed captive-hatched eaglets into wild nests. The 2024 annual spring survey estimated 841 active eagle nests.
The sustained success is reflected in productivity data. The 2024 survey showed an average nest success rate of over 81% and 1.6 eaglets per active nest. This rate is well above the one eaglet per nest needed to maintain a stable population. The species was removed from the federal threatened and endangered species list in 2007 and from Ohio’s state list in 2012.
Key Habitats and Distribution in Ohio
Bald eagles are strongly associated with aquatic environments, as their diet consists primarily of fish. Their preferred habitats are large bodies of water, including lakes, reservoirs, and extensive river systems, which provide abundant food resources and tall, mature trees for nesting. The highest concentration of nests is found in the northern part of the state, particularly along the Lake Erie shoreline and its islands. Counties like Ottawa, Sandusky, and Erie consistently report the most active nests due to the rich food sources offered by the lake and associated wetlands.
Significant nesting activity also occurs around large inland water bodies, such as Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area in the northeast and Grand Lake St. Marys in the west. Beyond the Great Lakes region, eagles are increasingly distributed along major waterways like the Muskingum, Scioto, and Maumee Rivers. During winter, when northern waters freeze, eagles often migrate toward open water, concentrating along major rivers and unfrozen reservoirs. This seasonal movement provides viewing opportunities in non-traditional areas, including open farm fields where they may scavenge.
Observing Eagles and Legal Protections
When viewing bald eagles in Ohio, the public should prioritize the well-being of the birds by maintaining a respectful distance. Experts recommend observing eagles, especially near a nest, from a minimum distance of 330 feet, or approximately 100 yards. Using binoculars or a spotting scope is recommended for close-up viewing without causing disturbance. Disturbing nesting eagles can cause them to abandon their eggs or young, making distance and quiet observation important for their survival.
Bald eagles and their nests are protected by both federal and state laws, even though the species is no longer listed as endangered. The federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act prohibits the “take” of eagles, which includes pursuing, shooting, poisoning, or capturing the bird. The act specifies that “disturb” also constitutes illegal “take,” meaning any activity likely to injure an eagle, decrease its productivity, or cause nest abandonment is prohibited. Nests are protected year-round, regardless of activity, and cannot be removed or tampered with without a permit. Violations can result in significant legal penalties.