2018 Site Environmental Report

Abstract

The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) has been the proud national emblem of the United States of America since 1792. These majestic birds can have a wingspan from six to seven and a half feet and can live up to 20 years. They reach breeding age around four years of age and often mate for life, with nesting occurring in late winter. Eagles eat a variety of foods from fish to carrion. Eagle populations were historically impacted by shooting, the presence of heavy metals in waterways and, most significantly, by pesticides like DDT that caused thinning of egg shells. Here on Long Island, the bald eagle population has made a notable return, after being absent for nearly 100 years in New York State.