Threats faced by the Bald Eagle

This illustration was created to describe the threats faced by the bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) described in Jennifer Leman’s article “A Revered Raptor’s Return.” Bald eagle populations were diminishing due to the rampant use of DDT softening the shell of their eggs. Bald eagles stand on their eggs during incubation, so they were crushed before the babies were able to hatch. The plane shown here is spraying DDT, illustrated by the chemical symbol painted on the wings. Current threats faced by this bird include wildlife photographers disturbing the nesting sites. The photographer here is keeping a safe distance, but often times wildlife enthusiasts are not aware that they should stay at least 330 feet from a nest during breeding season.