The bald eagle, a symbol of American wildlife, is present in West Virginia. These birds, known for their distinctive white heads and tails, soar across the state’s diverse landscapes. Adult bald eagles, with wingspans up to 7.5 feet, are a captivating sight. Their return signifies a triumph for conservation efforts and highlights the state’s rich natural heritage.
Bald Eagle Comeback in West Virginia
The bald eagle in West Virginia experienced a significant decline, with only one nest reported by the early 1980s in Hardy County. This near demise was attributed to factors like widespread DDT use, habitat loss from logging, and historical bounties. DDT severely impacted eagle reproduction by disrupting calcium metabolism, leading to thin-shelled eggs that broke easily.
The banning of DDT in the 1970s marked a turning point, allowing eagle populations to slowly begin their recovery. Conservation initiatives, including protection under the Endangered Species Act in 1973, further aided their comeback.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service delisted the bald eagle from its endangered and threatened wildlife list in 2007, a testament to successful preservation efforts. By 2022, West Virginia had documented over 130 bald eagle nests, with the number of active nests increasing annually.
Where Bald Eagles Reside in West Virginia
Bald eagles in West Virginia favor environments close to large bodies of water, which provide their primary food source: fish. These areas offer suitable nesting sites in tall, mature trees and ample opportunities for hunting. During the winter breeding season, eagles remain near water, and their nests, which can grow to be five feet in diameter and three feet deep, are often reused for many years.
Sightings are common along major rivers such as the Ohio River, from Huntington to Liverpool, and the New River watershed, including the Bluestone Lake area. The Eastern Panhandle, particularly along the Cacapon and Potomac watersheds, also hosts a significant population.
Locations like the South Branch of the Potomac River, where the state’s first documented nest was found in 1981, continue to be prime viewing spots, including along the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad. Eagles have also been observed in the state’s mountains, congregating at lakes during fall migration, and at Spruce Knob Lake.
Protecting Bald Eagles in West Virginia
Bald eagles, while no longer federally listed as endangered, continue to receive legal protection at both federal and state levels. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668-668d), enacted in 1940, prohibits the “taking” of bald or golden eagles, including their parts, nests, or eggs, without a permit. “Taking” is broadly defined to include pursuing, shooting, wounding, killing, capturing, collecting, or disturbing the birds. Violation of this federal act can result in fines and imprisonment.
Additionally, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act further protects these birds. In West Virginia, state law specifically prohibits the taking, possession, transport, or sale of bald or golden eagles. Violations carry penalties ranging from fines and imprisonment to the forfeiture of hunting licenses for up to ten years. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources actively monitors known bald eagle nests and encourages the public to report new active nest locations, contributing to ongoing conservation efforts.