PORTFOLIO > Damoiseaux 2020: 21 bird species at risk from the Canadian and American public registry

Bald Eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus, Pygargue à tête blanche
Bald Eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus, Pygargue à tête blanche
Laser-cut acrylic and archival pigment on Hahnemuhle Photo Rag, also available as a print
28.25 x 22.25 inches; 71,7 x 56,5 cm
2020

Status: Special Concern Quebec, Threatened New York State and Special Concern USA

Success story: Bald eagle is currently not listed as an at-risk species in Canada and enjoys healthy populations throughout its range, but this was not always the case. Forty years ago, the species faced extinction as a result of habitat lost and unintentional DDT poisoning. Public education, habitat conservation and regulation all helped bald eagle populations recover. Today conservation groups and citizen science programs continue to monitor these impressive birds.

Since the 1972 ban on DDT, eagles and other birds of prey are once again producing young. However, destruction of habitat by logging and development along watercourses is resulting in reproductive failure and nest abandonment.

The bald eagle is an icon of strength and courage, and a beloved symbol in North American culture. One of the largest birds of prey (raptors) found in North America, bald eagles stand about 30 inches high, have a wingspan of 72-84 inches, and weigh between 8 and 14 pounds.

Source: www.dec.ny.gov/animals/74052.html and www.natureconservancy.ca/en/what-we-do/…