Bald Eagle numbers take flight in Ohio

COLUMBUS — If you enjoy seeing bald eagles in Ohio, there’s positive news on the trending numbers for the species.

For years America’s national bird was a rare sight in the state. But the results from a recent study by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources reveals an emerging story.

There were approximately 2,500 responses to a Citizen Scientist Census, which took place in February and March of 2020 across. That survey showed that 707 bald eagle nests were confirmed across the state. That signifies a 151-percent increase from a 2012 census which only identified 281 nests throughout the state.

Locally, the survey showed 16 nests in Knox County, 14 in Richland County, 9 in Ashland County, 6 in Crawford County, and 5 in Morrow County.

“We are grateful to every Ohioan who contributed to this effort and thank those who support conservation of high-quality habitat that kept eagles nesting in Ohio,” said ODNR Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine also voiced enthusiasm for the census’s findings.

“The bald eagle is a symbol of American strength and resilience,” he stated in the report. “The eagle’s comeback in Ohio and across the country proves that we can overcome any challenge when we work together.”