Conservation comeback for eagles!

Juvenile bald eagle on Capers Island!

Some of the large birds we frequently spot—and still get excited about every time—include the Bald Eagle, Eastern Brown Pelican, and Osprey. While these species are more common today, they once faced significant threats to their survival. In the 1970s, harmful pesticides like DDT and endrin pushed them onto the endangered species list. Their populations dwindled, and for a time, sightings became increasingly rare.

Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, these incredible birds have made an extraordinary comeback. The ban on DDT, habitat protections, and breeding programs have all contributed to their resurgence. Seeing a juvenile Bald Eagle around Capers Island is a testament to the success of these efforts and a reminder of how vital conservation work continues to be.

Bird conservation efforts don’t just benefit our feathered friends—did you know another species we commonly see almost went extinct too? We are talking about the American Alligator. Due to unregulated hunting and habitat loss, alligators almost went extinct in the 1950’s & 1960’s. Thankfully the Endangered Species Preservation Act and the Endangered Species Act were voted into action. With habitat protection and other conservation efforts the American alligator’s population greatly increased!