BALD EAGLE

Photo by Bob Gress
Used by permission

Federal Status:
Delisted Aug. 8, 2007

State Status:
Threatened

• Range:
  Dark Blue = Counties with designated critical habitat
  Light Blue = Historical records
• Comments: Not many years ago, a bald eagle was a remarkable sight in Kansas. Today, there may be 1,000-1,500 winter residents patrolling lakes and rivers for fish, injured waterfowl or carrion. The protection of habitat and the banning of chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides such as DDT have increased the bald eagle population. Winter survey counts increased 1.9 percent annually from 1986-2000. In addition, bald eagle nests are becoming more common in Kansas. Although John James Audubon noted a nest near Leavenworth in the 1800s, the next documented nest was in 1989. At least 21 nests were documented in 2004, mostly near large lakes or rivers. An adult bird may have a 7-foot wingspan. Young birds don’t get a white head and tail until 4-5 years of age. This national symbol has special protection provided by the Bald Eagle Protection Act of 1940.

• More information on Bald Eagles may be found in the Raptor's Roost!

Other Birds on the Kansas T&E List