Journey North Bald Eagle Spring 2006

Bald Eagle

Bald Eagle Migration Update: May 10, 2006

Today's Report Includes:

Special Thanks to Our Bald Eagle Biologist!
Field Notes from Peter Nye
Tracking the Spring 2006 Bald Eagle Migration
Eagleye’s Summary of Spring Migration Research
Conflict in the Natal Nest?
History of Bald Eagles in North America
Eagles Over Aberdeen
Year-End Evaluation: Please Share Your Thoughts!

Special Thanks to Our Bald Eagle Biologist!
As the migration season draws to a close, we'd like to turn your attention behind the scenes. Over the past 4 months, in addition to his busy job, Peter Nye found extra time to share his research and knowledge with us all. Journey North would not be possible without the dedication of scientists like Peter Nye who contribute their expertise voluntarily.

Thank you, Peter!

Field Notes from Eagleye Nye
Eagleye has gathered his field gear and headed out for summer eagle research. Last week he bid us farewell with these parting words:

“Take care, and do well as school wraps up; have a great summer and hope to see you all next year! - Eagleye”

Check back with us early next year as Eagleye Nye shares new information about the Bald eagles of New York.

A view from the nest. Notice the GPS for tracking the eagle locations.

Tracking the Spring 2006 Bald Eagle Migration
Our season has come to a close and our biologist, Eagleye Nye is out in the field checking on the nest sites in his New York territory. How well did you keep tracking records for the Spring 2006 migration? Do your records include the information below? This chart can become a permanent record for you to keep - in your own Bald eagle tracking archive!

Bald Eagle Notes: Final Spring 2006 Archives

Eagleye’s Summary of Spring Migration Research

Nestling ready to fledge the nest.

After observing Bald eagles for many years in New York state, Pete Nye created a summary based on satellite data from 11 Bald Eagles that were tracked for multiple years, and one tracked for 4 complete springs. His data was compiled from a total of 57 seasons: 35 spring season, 22 fall seasons.

Satellite transmitters have greatly enhanced what we know about migrating eagles. You will be amazed at the summary Eagleye has presented. Read more of this fascinating information:

Summary of Spring Migration Findings

Conflict in the Natal Nest?

Returning immature eagle. Credit Scott Rando

Young eagles often return to their natal nesting areas. After fledging almost a year ago, immature eagle P88 has returned to his natal nest. What do you think will happen to eagle P88, his parents and his new baby eaglet brothers or sisters with his return? What different scenarios can you imagine?

Try This!
Create a story about P88 and his life. Start with his parents and the nest. What happens when he decides to return to his natal nest?

Read Eagleye’s real-life story about this very same phenomenon!

History of Bald Eagles in North America
Many ornithologists believe that the eagle population numbered about half a million birds when Columbus arrived in America. Eagles lived on every river and chain of lakes on the continent. However, by the end of the 1800s, eagle numbers had dropped dramatically.
Learn the dramatic history of the decline of the Bald eagle. Find out about the Endangered Species Act and the effects of the pesticide DDT.

History of the Bald Eagle

Eagles Over Aberdeen
The majestic Bald eagle inspires people in many ways. The eagles’ size and strength combined with their grace and beauty have made them important symbols in our culture.
Artist and songwriter Chris Mentch was inspired to create a song about the eagles over the Aberdeen Proving Grounds. He shares it with us:

“And Eagles over Aberdeen may grace my Maryland skies
And here out over Aberdeen I still hear freedom’s cry…”

Eagles Over Aberdeen

Year-End Evaluation: Please Share Your Thoughts!
Please take a few minutes to share your suggestions and comments in our Year-End Evaluation. The information you provide is critical for planning new initiatives and for improving Journey North.

Also, as a free program supported by a generous grant from Annenberg Media, we want to be able to document Journey North's reach, impact and value. THANK YOU!

Journey North
Year End Evaluation
Please share your thoughts

This is the FINAL Bald Eagle Migration Update for 2006.
We've had a lot of fun learning about eagles this spring! Thanks to everyone who participated in tracking these magnificent raptors with Eagleye and Journey North. See you next spring!