The Eagle Has Landed - Hide-A-Way Hills, Ohio - Lake Arrowhead

This Bald Eagle, one of what is believed to be a nesting pair, was caught fishing in Lake Arrowhead. While guests must be accompanied by a member to utilize the amenities, an exception was made for this eagle and it's partner, believed to nest in Kessler Swamp.

Thanks to Sue Pyle for the photograph!

Bald Eagles don't develop the typical white head and tail feathers until they are 4-5 years of age. Until then, they remain solid dark brown. Their habitat stretches all across our country, save Hawaii, however they are usually found near large bodies of water. Bald Eagles mate for life, choosing another mate only if the first dies. Nests are used for many years in a row and can weigh several tons.

The bald eagle, adopted as our national symbol in 1782, has been declining in numbers until the 1940's when congress passed the Bald Eagle Protection Act. Despite the penalties for killing or possessing any part of a Bald Eagle, in 1963 there were only 487 nesting pairs of Bald Eagles left.

Thankfully, due to extensive work from the US Fish and Wildlife service, the Bald Eagle was removed from the list of endangered and threatened species on June 28, 2007.

Fun Eagle Fact: Benjamin Franklin wanted the wild turkey as the national bird because the bald eagle was 'Of bad moral character'.

References:

US Fish and Wildlife Service

American Eagle Foundation

Photograph courtesy of Sue Pyle, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled and your camera's ready! Your photo could be featured on HAHBlog next!