There has been a great deal of publicity in the news media recently around the successful resurgence of the bald eagle in New Jersey. For the first time, more than 200 pairs of bald eagles have been recorded nesting and they are now confirmed to be nesting in all 21 counties. This is quite a comeback from the early 80’s when only one pair of nesting eagles was reported. And it shows what’s possible when people get together and put forth the effort.

The program is a partnership between the NJ Department of Environmental Protection and the Conserve Wildlife Foundation assisted by more than 100 volunteers who monitor the nesting sites and locate new ones. One of those volunteers, Jim Mulvey, monitors the eagle nest here at Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. Jim reports that last year there was one eaglet that was large enough for him to be confident that it was the only nestling. Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, volunteering was not allowed on the refuge so the survey could not be continued. However, Jim reports seeing an immature bald eagle recently, and this may have been our addition for the 2020 season.

Jim’s report from his first survey of 2021, on January 11, is that the eagles are not on the nest but they are nearby. Apparently, this is pretty routine and he expects eggs will be laid in the next week or two. The eagle nest may be viewed from the Chandler S. Robbins Memorial Viewing Platform at the Wildlife Observation Center.

Last year, before the shut-down, eagles were frequently seen flying over the wetlands or perched in nearby trees. If you visit the Wildlife Observation Center, remember to observe Covid-19 safety protocols, maintain a safe distance from others and wear a mask. And enjoy sightings of our nation’s symbol of freedom.