🛑 Human Impacts on Bald Eagles
Although bald eagles are considered a conservation success story, their survival is far from guaranteed. These birds are closely tied to the health of their habitat, and as the landscape around them changes, so do their chances of thriving.
1. Habitat Loss
Urban development, logging, and shoreline modifications have reduced the number of suitable nesting and roosting sites for bald eagles. These birds prefer tall trees near water, where they can hunt and raise their young in peace. As forests are fragmented or cleared, nesting success can decline.
2. Pollution
Toxins from industrial activity, agricultural runoff, and improperly disposed waste can enter the food chain and accumulate in fish—the primary food source for bald eagles. These contaminants can lead to weakened immune systems, reproductive problems, and developmental issues in chicks.
3. Warming Waters
Climate change is warming our oceans and freshwater systems. This affects the availability of fish, especially salmon, an essential prey species for bald eagles in the Pacific Northwest. Less food means more competition and harder times for breeding pairs trying to raise young.
🌱 What YOU Can Do to Help Bald Eagles
The good news? There are many ways to support bald eagle populations and the ecosystems they depend on. Here are a few meaningful actions you can take:
✔️ Support shoreline and forest conservation
Protecting mature coastal forests and undeveloped shorelines helps preserve vital eagle habitat. Support organizations that defend wild spaces or participate in local restoration projects.
✔️ Choose sustainable seafood
Overfishing impacts eagle food sources. Opting for Ocean Wise or Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)-certified products helps ensure fish populations remain healthy—for us and for wildlife.
✔️ Reduce plastic use and chemical runoff
Plastic pollution and toxic chemicals have far-reaching effects on the food web. Use fewer single-use plastics, and choose eco-friendly cleaning and garden products to reduce runoff into waterways.
✔️ Respect nesting areas
If you’re out hiking or boating near known nesting sites, give them space. Disturbance, especially during nesting season, can cause stress or even nest abandonment.
🛥️ What We Do at Seabreeze Adventures
At Seabreeze Adventures, we’re proud to share the Salish Sea with these incredible raptors. We train our naturalists to identify eagles and educate guests about their behaviours, diet, and importance to coastal ecosystems. Their presence reminds us just how wild and interconnected this region truly is.
đź“Ť Keep Your Eyes on the Skies
Bald eagle sightings are a regular (and always thrilling!) part of our wildlife tours from Steveston, BC. Whether you’re a lifelong bird lover or just beginning to notice what’s flying overhead, spotting an eagle in its natural habitat is a moment that sticks with you.
Ready to experience the Salish Sea through the eyes of an eagle?
🛥️ Book your next tour with Seabreeze Adventures
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