2025 has been an incredible year for the Eagles, both the Philadelphia Eagles football team and the bald eagle. The Philadelphia Eagles, fresh off their Super Bowl victory, are riding high on the success of their championship win. The bald eagle, America’s national bird, has also scored big now that it’s off the endangered species list thanks to decades of conservation efforts. Whether on the football field or in nature, 2025 is a year where both the Eagles are truly flying high!
Brink of Extinction? Our National Bird?
Yep. Once on the brink of extinction, the bald eagle is now soaring across the country once again in healthy populations. This remarkable recovery, detailed in a recent Associated Press report from February 3, 2025, highlights the impact of conservation efforts and the growing cultural recognition of the bald eagle.
The story of the bald eagle’s comeback is rooted in concerted conservation efforts, particularly the banning of DDT, the harmful pesticide responsible for thinning eagle eggs and causing a severe population decline. With DDT banned in 1972, and further efforts like importing eagles from stable populations, the bald eagle population began to stabilize. In New Jersey alone, their numbers have grown from a single nesting pair in the 1980s to nearly 300 today.
Beyond conservation, the bald eagle has gained increased cultural recognition. In December 2024, President Joe Biden signed legislation officially naming the bald eagle the United States national bird, correcting a long-standing oversight. This move was supported by various groups, including Native American and veterans' organizations, and it highlights the eagle's spiritual significance as a symbol of strength.
Where to See a Bald Eagle in New Jersey: A Guide to Eagle Watching
New Jersey is home to many species of wildlife and there are several prime locations where you can observe bald eagles in their natural habitat.
Here’s your guide to the best places to spot a bald eagle in New Jersey:
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area With its deep forests, rivers, and rugged terrain, this area offers excellent opportunities to spot bald eagles, especially during the winter months when they migrate from the colder regions in search of food.
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, located in Morris County, provides a sanctuary for wildlife and an ideal environment for bald eagles. Its mix of wetlands, forests, and meadows creates the perfect habitat for these magnificent birds. While you can visit year-round, the colder months provide the best chances to spot bald eagles as they often come to the refuge for food.
Key Spot: The Wildlife Observation Center is a great place to start your eagle-watching adventure. There’s also a variety of walking trails that lead you through areas where eagles are known to hunt and nest.
Maurice River The Maurice River, which flows through Cumberland County, is another hotspot for bald eagle sightings, especially around the Cedarville Wildlife Management Area, is rich with fish, making it an attractive spot for eagles. The wetlands along the river's banks provide a perfect setting for birdwatching.
Sandy Hook - Gateway National Recreation Area Bald eagles are occasionally spotted along the water’s edge at Sandy Hook, part of the Gateway National Recreation Area. Sandy Hook also offers a view of New York Harbor and is an excellent spot for both beginner and seasoned birdwatchers.
Pequest River WMA (Wildlife Management Area) The Pequest River in Warren County offers a rich feeding ground for eagles and a peaceful environment to observe them. The area is known for its tranquil forests and wetlands, where eagles can be seen soaring overhead or perched on trees
Wharton State Forest Wharton State Forest, located in the Pine Barrens of southern New Jersey, offers a great opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles. With its numerous rivers, streams, and wetlands, it’s an important habitat for eagles, particularly along the Mullica and Wading Rivers.
Tips for Bald Eagle Watching:
Be Quiet and Patient: Bald eagles are sensitive to human presence, so approach quietly and remain still for the best chance of a sighting.
Bring Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars will help you spot eagles in the trees or soaring high in the sky.
Visit Early in the Morning or Late Afternoon: Eagles are most active during these times when the light is softer, and they are hunting for food.
Check Local Birding Groups: Many birding organizations offer eagle-watching tours or events during peak times.
Bald eagle sightings in New Jersey are a breathtaking experience, offering a rare glimpse into the life of one of America's most iconic birds. Whether you are in the mountains, along the shore, or in the forests, there are plenty of places across the state where you can spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Winter is typically the best time for eagle-watching in New Jersey, but these magnificent birds can be spotted at various times of the year in the right locations.
So grab your binoculars, bundle up, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in our wild spaces!
Until next time, peace!
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