The Bald Eagle - Off the Endagered List
Many Americans feared the extinction of their national symbol, but the bald eagle has been slowing growing in numbers and largely recovered from its earlier decline. In 1940 the bald eagle was declared to be endangered, and to protect it from hunters the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection act was passed. Another danger to the bird was the spread of DDT, which continued to kill eagles even after the hunters stopped. In 1963 the numbers of breeding pairs was only 417, leading to the 1973 inclusion in the list of endangered species.
Far from the expected extinction of the treasured national symbol, the bald eagle has since made a dramatic recovery. Today nearly 10,000 pairs of bald eagles roam the U.S., which is enough to get the species removed from the protection of the endangered species list. But, the species will not be left entirely alone by the experts. The bald eagle's numbers will be monitored for a few years to make sure they do not begin to decline again. If at any time the eagle's numbers begin to decline, there is the possibility of the animal being relisted on the endangered species list for continuing protection.
The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act will continue to protect the bald eagle even as it stays off the endangered species list. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 has offers still more protection to the bald eagle. Migratory birds could not be hunted or traded in the U.S. because of the act, but that protection also extended into other countries. For eagles that make their way into Canada or Mexico, the treaty is in effect in those countries to stop the trade of eagle feathers, eggs and other parts that could make the hunting of eagles lucrative.
Since DDT was banned in 1972, bald eagles have enjoyed further protection from decline. DDT was found to be a major factor in the downfall of the bald eagle, as well as many other animal species, as the toxic chemical found its way through the food chain. Waterways became contaminated with the chemical, which then spread to the eagles. When fish caught from waters contaminated with the chemical, they too became contaminated. Eagles affected by the chemical were unable to make the hard shells needed for their eggs. The havoc wreaked by DDT made it difficult for the species to reproduce as mother eagles cracked their own thin eggs in an attempt to incubate them. With DDT now gone, the number of bald eagles can continue to grow.
For more bald eagle facts, bald eagle statues, and other bald eagle information visit http://www.OodlesOnBaldEagles.com.
Rating: Not yet rated
Comments
No comments posted yet.
Add Comment
You do not have permission to comment. If you log in, you may be able to comment.
