Sangamon Sun

The Bald Eagle holds significant importance in American society as the national animal and bird of the United States, prominently featured on the Great Seal. National American Eagle Day, observed annually, aims to honor this national symbol while raising awareness about bald eagle protection. The day also promotes educational outreach and encourages efforts to restore their natural habitats.

Illinois boasts a growing population of over 3,100 bald eagles during winter across more than 27 counties. These eagles are typically seen from December to March when they migrate northward. January and February are considered prime months for eagle viewing in Illinois, which ranks second only to Alaska in terms of wintering bald eagle populations.

Key locations for observing bald eagles in Illinois include Plum Island near Starved Rock State Park on the Illinois River and Banner Marsh southwest of Peoria. Other notable spots are along the Illinois, Des Plaines, Fox, DuPage, and Chicago rivers; the Illinois and Michigan Canal; Moraine Hills State Park; Volo Bog State Natural Area; and Pleasant Valley Forest Preserve.

In southwestern Illinois near St. Louis, early January saw an Eagle Fest held in Alton. Areas between Alton and Grafton along the Mississippi River serve as prime nesting sites for bald eagles. Pere Marquette State Park's Bald Eagle Days celebration offers additional eagle-sighting opportunities with ranger-led observation drives.

Illinois is home to two main eagle species: the bald eagle and golden eagle. Bald eagles have a large yellow bill and primarily consume fish. They are widespread throughout the state with a significant population along the Mississippi River. Golden eagles are less common but can be found along the Mississippi River and Chicago lakefront. They are large brown birds with a white tail band that feed on mammals like squirrels and rabbits as well as other birds.

Historically, bald eagles faced near extinction in the lower 48 states due to regular killings driven by perceived threats to salmon and livestock populations. The Bald Eagle Protection Act was enacted in the 1940s; however, insecticide use further reduced their numbers to under 500 individuals nationwide. Following the ban on DDT in the early 1970s in both the U.S. and Canada, recovery programs began to thrive.

The Endangered Species Act of 1967 played a crucial role in aiding bald eagle recovery efforts through habitat restoration, education, protection measures, monitoring activities, and leveraging their adaptability. By 2007, these combined efforts led to bald eagles being removed from the Endangered Species List.