Proper Bald Eagle Nest Viewing Etiquette Encouraged

HARRISBURG - While viewing nesting bald eagles is a thrilling experience, Pennsylvania Game Commission officials encourage caution because human disturbances can cause adult eagles to abandon their nests and young. Also, anyone charged with disturbing a bald eagle nest can be charged by federal and state wildlife officials.

“Even though some eagles have built nests near urban and suburban settings, it remains critically important for people to stay a considerable distance away, preferably at least 1,000 feet,” said Brenda Peebles, Game Commission biologist aide, who recently was called to testify as an expert witness in a case involving the disturbance of a bald eagle nest in Springboro, Crawford County.

“A landowner gave permission to another individual to cut down trees near a newly constructed bald eagle nest,” Peebles said. “This person then agreed to allow a second individual to cut the tops up for firewood. As this second person was cutting the tree tops, a volunteer helper, who watches this nest out her kitchen window, saw that the eagles were in a panic. She called me, I then called Crawford County Wildlife Conservation Officer Mario Piccirilli, who investigated the situation and filed a citation. Fortunately, the birds are fine and the young are about ready to fledge.”

As a result of the disturbance, on May 22, in the hearing held before District Judge Rita Marwood, Leroy W. Chupp, of Springboro, was ordered to pay fines and court costs of $558.50.

“While it may seem bald eagles have become more tolerant of people when selecting nest locations, it doesn’t mean they’re comfortable with people approaching their nests,” Peebles said. “It’s also against the law to disturb nesting eagles,” Peebles said. “Get a good pair of binoculars or a spotting scope to watch the nest or observe them in flight. Just please stay back and give them some room. Avoid making loud noises or approaching the nest directly or from above.”