Bald eagles are magnificent birds of prey that are the national symbol of the United States. They were once endangered, but have made a remarkable recovery in recent decades. Bald eagles are now found across much of North America, including in the state of Illinois.
Bald Eagle Habitat
Bald eagles typically live near rivers, lakes, reservoirs, marshes, and coastal areas where there is access to open water for feeding. They build massive nests high up in large trees that provide good visibility of their surroundings. Bald eagles prefer to nest in mature or old-growth trees that are strong enough to support their large nests, which can weigh over 1,000 pounds.
In Illinois, bald eagles are most commonly found along major river systems, including the Mississippi, Illinois, Ohio, Wabash, and Kaskaskia Rivers. They also nest near large inland lakes and reservoirs. Bald eagles thrive around bodies of water that support populations of fish, their primary prey. They also feed on waterfowl, turtles, rabbits, snakes, and other small animals.
Bald Eagle Population in Illinois
The bald eagle population in Illinois has rebounded dramatically since the 1980s. In the 1950s-1970s, habitat loss, hunting, pesticide use, and other factors caused bald eagle numbers to plummet across North America. By the early 1980s, only 52 nesting pairs remained in Illinois.
After the bald eagle was listed as an endangered species and protected under the Endangered Species Act in 1978, cooperative restoration efforts by federal and state wildlife agencies helped bald eagle populations recover. These efforts included protecting habitat, banning DDT, establishing nest watch programs, reintroducing eagles, and working with landowners.
As of 2019, there were over 300 known bald eagle nesting territories across Illinois. While no longer endangered, bald eagles remain protected under federal law. The comeback of bald eagles represents one of America’s greatest conservation success stories.
Bald Eagle Population By Region of Illinois
Region | # of Nests (2019) |
---|---|
Northeast Illinois | 71 |
Northwest Illinois | 37 |
East-central Illinois | 44 |
West-central Illinois | 92 |
Southern Illinois | 69 |
The highest density of bald eagle nests in Illinois as of 2019 was found along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers in west-central Illinois. Other regions with significant bald eagle populations include the Rock River and Green River watersheds in northern Illinois, and the Cache River wetlands in southern Illinois.
Best Places to See Bald Eagles in Illinois
Some of the best places in Illinois to spot bald eagles include:
- Mississippi River – Especially along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway between Rock Island and Alton.
- Illinois River – The Illinois River National Scenic Byway near Havana, Peoria, and the confluence with the Mississippi River are prime eagle-watching spots.
- Carlyle Lake – This large reservoir managed by the Army Corps of Engineers attracts wintering bald eagles.
- Rend Lake – Another Corps lake with a large population of nesting and wintering bald eagles.
- Chain O’Lakes State Park – Bald eagles congregate around this northern Illinois lake chain in winter.
- Horseshoe Lake State Park – A top site for bald eagle viewing in southern Illinois’ Cache River wetlands.
- Lake Shelbyville – This central Illinois lake offers great bald eagle watching opportunities.
Some key things to look for when trying to spot bald eagles are large stick nests high up in trees along shorelines, and adult eagles with white heads and white tails soaring over waterways.
Bald Eagle Viewing Guidelines
When viewing and photographing bald eagles, it is important not to disturb or stress the birds. Here are some guidelines for responsible bald eagle watching:
- Keep your distance – Remain at least 750 feet away from nests, and give perched eagles ample space.
- Use binoculars or spotting scopes – This allows you to safely observe from afar.
- Do not play audio – Loud noises can flush eagles from nests and perches.
- Never feed eagles – Feeding can disrupt their natural behaviors.
- Steer clear of nests – Nesting sites should be avoided from December through mid-summer.
- Avoid flashes – Camera flashes may startle eagles, so use telephoto lenses.
- Don’t linger – Limit observation time so as not to stress the eagles.
Following these simple guidelines will help ensure bald eagles are not disturbed, while allowing you to safely enjoy observing these magnificent birds.
Threats Facing Bald Eagles
While bald eagle populations have rebounded significantly, they still face some threats in Illinois and elsewhere:
- Habitat loss – Development near waterways can reduce nesting and feeding habitat.
- Disturbance – Human activity too close to nests can disrupt breeding.
- Contaminants – Eagles accumulate toxins from lead, pesticides, mercury, and other pollutants.
- Climate change – Impacts water levels, fish populations, and nesting habitat over time.
- Collisions – Eagles are vulnerable to collisions with vehicles and infrastructure.
- Poaching – Small numbers continue to be illegally shot each year.
Ongoing conservation efforts are needed to protect bald eagle habitat and minimize these threats. Proper nest monitoring, enforcing regulations, managing waterways sustainably, and reducing use of toxic chemicals will help ensure Illinois’ bald eagles continue to thrive.
Conservation Status
The bald eagle has an extensive protected status in Illinois and nationally:
- State-listed as Endangered in Illinois since 1977. Still listed despite recovery to highlight ongoing threats.
- Federally delisted from Endangered Species Act in 2007, now protected under Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
- Legally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Lacey Act.
- Considered a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Illinois Wildlife Action Plan.
The tremendous comeback of the bald eagle is a shining example of the success of environmental regulations like the Endangered Species Act combined with the dedicated efforts of wildlife professionals, conservation groups, landowners, and concerned citizens. Ongoing stewardship will be required to maintain healthy bald eagle populations in Illinois into the future.
Conclusion
In summary, bald eagles have rebounded substantially in Illinois after nearly being extirpated decades ago. They are now found widely along major rivers and large water bodies throughout the state. Some of the best places to observe bald eagles are along the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. When viewing and photographing eagles, it is essential to follow proper guidelines and keep your distance to avoid disturbing them.
While no longer endangered, bald eagles still face threats and require continued conservation efforts. Their remarkable recovery stands as an inspirational example of how wildlife populations can bounce back if given sufficient habitat protections and management. The white-headed bald eagle will hopefully continue to soar over Illinois’ waterways for generations to come.