Nature’s Notes: Eagles nesting in Corridor

A trip to Decorah isn't needed to view nesting bald eagles. Several active nests are in the Corridor, including inside Cedar Rapids and Marion city limits and on the west edge of Mount Vernon. Other nests are scattered about and the giant birds often are seen flying over highways and downtown.

Until toxic DDT was banned in the 1970s, our national bird was in sliding toward extinction. Happily, it's been on the rebound ever since. Iowa's first modern-era nest was discovered in 1977 and eagles now have established nests in at least 86 counties.

A bald eagle nest is an immense pile of sticks often built near the top of the highest tree in the area. It's usually near water so the birds don't have to fly far to capture their preferred fish dinner.

Eagles live up to 30 years and mate for life. The female lays two or three eggs. Both identical appearing parents take turn incubating until chicks hatch in about 35 days, usually in late March.

Eagles are successfully raising youngsters in and near urban areas but they don't like people close to their nest, especially right after the chicks hatch. To avoid disturbing the eagle family, stay at least 400 yards away. The birds are more comfortable if people observe them from a car or blind. A pair of binoculars helps bring them visually closer.

Spotting a bald eagle always is thrilling. Fortunately, it is a common Corridor sight.