The bald eagle was adopted as the national symbol in 1782. Once common, with over 100,000 birds in the lower 48 states, its population nearly disappeared due to habitat loss and pesticides.

By 1963, only 417 nesting pairs remained in the continental U.S., and the species was declared endangered in 1969. Thanks to conservation efforts, the bald eagle population recovered dramatically. It was removed from the threatened species list in 2007.

Adults are easily recognized by their dark brown bodies and their iconic white head and tail. Their wingspan can reach up to seven feet. Bald eagles mate for life, and both parents work together to raise their young. They primarily eat fish but are also opportunistic feeders, meaning they will eat other meat, including carrion (dead animals).

The first nest in West Virginia wasn't officially documented until 1981. Their numbers have soared! In 2010, there were 36 nesting pairs. By 2024, that number had jumped to 300 nesting pairs across the state.