The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF), in partnership with dedicated volunteers, is actively monitoring 10 bald eagle nests on Sanibel, Captiva, North Captiva, and nearby areas during the nesting season, which runs from October 1 to May 15.
First Hatchlings of the Season
The SCCF reported that the first bald eagle nest of the season hatched in late December on Captiva. Since then, three additional nests have hatched eaglets on Sanibel. As of January 14, the remaining nests were either in the incubation phase or still under construction.
“Since Hurricane Ian in 2022, bald eagles on the islands have had great nesting success, fledging nine eaglets in 2023 and 13 in 2024,” said SCCF Shorebird Biologist Audrey Albrecht. “We’re hoping for another successful year.”
A Resilient Start After Hurricane Milton
The nesting season faced a challenging start with Hurricane Milton on October 9. A Window to Wildlife live stream captured adult male Clive from the Captiva nest weathering the storm in the nest. His mate, Connie, was briefly missing after the storm but later reunited with Clive. Their resilience has led to successful offspring this season.
Fascinating Facts About Bald Eagles
Bald eagles officially became America’s national bird on December 24, 2024, solidifying their role as a symbol of strength and freedom since their designation as the nation’s emblem in 1782.
- Eaglet Care: After hatching, eaglets remain in the nest for 10-12 weeks. Both parents protect and feed their young, breaking food into small morsels and delivering it directly to the chicks.
- Egg-Laying and Survival: Females typically lay up to three eggs a few days apart. The first eaglet to hatch often has an advantage, receiving more food and growing faster than its siblings.
- Lifespan: Eaglets begin flying at around three months old and can live for 20-30 years in the wild.
To observe these magnificent birds, viewers can tune in to the Window to Wildlife live stream at YouTube.
Protecting Bald Eagles During Construction
While bald eagles are no longer classified as endangered, they remain protected by laws like the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and Florida’s eagle regulations.
- Distance Regulations: Construction or other disturbances should not occur within 660 feet of an active nest without a federal nest disturbance permit and proper monitoring.
- Property Buffers: Homeowners and contractors can check if their property falls within the 660-foot buffer using Audubon’s EagleWatch Map at Audubon EagleWatch.
- Permits: For information on obtaining work permits near bald eagle nests, visit FWC Eagle Permits.
Contributing to Bald Eagle Conservation
The SCCF’s monitoring efforts are conducted in collaboration with Audubon Florida’s EagleWatch program. To share eagle observations, photos, or ask questions, email [email protected].
By respecting regulations and contributing to monitoring efforts, residents and visitors alike can help ensure the continued success of bald eagle populations on Sanibel, Captiva, and beyond.
