The bald eagle represents a remarkable success story in endangered species recovery. In 1979, Ohio had just four breeding pairs. America’s national symbol was once on the verge of extinction but can now be found in each of Ohio’s 88 counties and across most of the nation. Over the last few decades, conservation efforts have restored bald eagles to healthy population numbers. The bird was removed from the federal list of threatened and endangered species in 2007, and from Ohio’s list in 2012.
A 2021 nest survey estimated 806 bald eagle nests in the Buckeye State. This is an estimated increase of 14% from the 707 bald eagle nests documented in Ohio from the 2020 citizen science survey coordinated by the Division of Wildlife. Bald eagle nesting success was at an estimated rate of 82% in the spring of 2021, and the number of young per nest was 1.6, well above the number of 1 per nest needed to sustain the population.
Fourteen dollars of every $15 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp sold are invested in the state’s Wildlife Diversity Fund. This fund supports habitat restoration, wildlife and habitat research projects, free wildlife educational materials, and efforts to restore and conserve endangered and threatened species such as the lake sturgeon, Karner blue butterfly, Indiana bat, and eastern hellbender. The fund ensures that important species like the bald eagle have the habitat, resources, and protection necessary to succeed in Ohio’s diverse ecosystems.
Ohio residents can anticipate entering the 14th annual Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp Photo Contest in August, with the winner being featured on the 2023 Legacy Stamp.
The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.