Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: IE
Context: The American bald eagle was removed from the endangered species list in 2007, marking a significant milestone in its conservation.
- The bird’s population has steadily increased since then, with a 2021 report stating that the number of bald eagles in the wild has quadrupled since 2009.
- The bald eagle, once abundant across the United States with an estimated 100,000 nesting birds in the country, faced a severe decline in population due to hunting, habitat destruction, and the pesticide However, measures such as the ban on DDT and the implementation of the Endangered Species Act helped protect the species and prevent it from going extinct.
| About the American bald eagle |  |
| Habitat | The bald eagle’s natural range covers most of North America, including most of Canada, all of the continental US, and northern Mexico. |
| It is the only sea eagle endemic to North America. | |
| Characteristics | The average life span of bald eagles is 20 to 30 years. |
| Bald eagles build their nests at the very top of tall trees so the eggs will be safe. | |
| Female bald eagles are a bit bigger than the males. | |
| Feeding Pattern | Besides live fish, bald eagles also prey on other birds, small mammals, snakes, turtles, and crabs, and they readily eat carrion (decaying flesh of dead animals). |
| Protection Status | IUCN Status: Least Concern |
