March 22, 2005
Eagle Nest Watcher Program
While you are tucked comfortably in your bed at night, 18 people are sleeping in tents so they can wake up at the crack of dawn to help protect our state's bald eagles.
The following information is taken from the 7 March 05 AZGFD Wildlife News Update, direct via e-mail.
The Arizona Bald Eagle Nestwatch Program has saved the lives of 44 eagle nestlings since it began as a weekend volunteer effort by the U.S. Forest Service and Maricopa Audubon Society in 1978. Now 19 agencies are involved with the program to monitor bald eagle breeding areas under heavy pressure from human recreational activities.
The nest watchers protect the eagles while they're nesting and raising young. They also help educate the public, so people don't disrupt the breeding process.
This year's nest watchers began their four-month tour of duty on Feb. 4. They will watch nine breeding areas, collecting data about the eagles' behavior and notifying rescuers of any life-threatening situations for the birds.