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Current Status:

Threats include loss of nesting habitat due to logging and subdivision for development, loss of wetland and riparian habitat, water pollution, nesting failures due to human disturbance of active nests, lead poisoning, secondary effects from illegal use of poisons for insect and predator control, and powerline electrocution.

Achievements:

From 1980 to 1984, mid-winter bald eagle counts in Wyoming averaged 449 eagles annually. Since then, the method and frequency of surveys have shifted from population emphasis to trend counts; therefore, full-scale winter surveys are no longer made. However, winter surveys continue in key areas along established routes. In 1992, observers tallied 501 bald eagles on these routes. Bald eagle nesting continues to climb. In 1978, 20 bald eagle pairs attempting to nest were documented in Wyoming, with 13 young fledged. In 1991, 57 territories were checked; 52 were occupied, and 36 pairs were successful, fledging 51 young. These numbers include 40 territories in the Wyoming portion of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, with 36 territories occupied and 23 pairs successful in fledging 31 young.

Current Recovery Needs:

Recovery efforts should focus on preventing habitat loss from land development and logging, preserving riparian habitat and wetlands, providing more law enforcement, and continued monitoring.

Partnerships

Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, Forest Service, National Park Service, and Office of Surface Mining: These Federal agencies participate on the Bald Eagle Working Team for the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, assist in monitoring wild nest and roost sites, inventory habitat, and conduct public information and education programs. The Bureau of Land Management also assisted in population monitoring.

Wyoming Game and Fish Department: This State agency has a primary role in monitoring the bald eagle population and identifying and delineating habitats in Wyoming. The Department participates on the Bald Eagle Working Team. It works with private landowners and public agencies in managing and protecting nest sites.

Recovery Plan Status:

Plan approved 4/12/82.