•  
  •  
 

Publication Date

9-1-2009

Abstract

Bald Eagles (Haliaetus leucocephalus) were studied in Texas from 1970 to 2009 by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Active nests increased from 5 in 1970 to 156 in 2005 when the last aerial survey was conducted. A total of 547 nest sites in 313 territories in 76 counties were identified thru May 2009. Longevity of 261 nests tracked averaged 4.2 years with a standard deviation of 3.4. Six hundred and sixty-one food items were examined at nest sites. They were comprised of 33.7% birds, 30.7% reptiles and 30% fish. Hurricanes did not appear to have any impacts on nest production. Nest production varied from 1.2 to 1.45 young per active nest. One-hundred and thirty-eight eaglets were banded and color-marked. Fledging success was 97% after 6 weeks of age. Three band recoveries and sightings of 29 adults and 32 immatures were obtained. Twenty sightings occurred outside of Texas with 74% of these occurring from May to August. Texas born eagles were reported from South Carolina to Canada and Arizona. Bald Eagle populations are increasing 13% per year, but there are a number of threats which may limit populations in the future.

Download

Share

COinS