Save the Eagles Day is observed on January 10 each year. It celebrates eagles and raises awareness of the threats they face. The day highlights one of America's greatest conservation success stories: the bald eagle, which nearly disappeared from the lower 48 states but has made a remarkable recovery. January is also a great time for eagle watching, as many eagles gather near open water in winter.
History of Save the Eagles Day
The bald eagle became a national symbol in 1782, when it was placed on the Great Seal of the United States. But by the mid-20th century, bald eagles were in serious trouble. Habitat loss, hunting and especially the pesticide DDT took a heavy toll. DDT caused eagles to lay eggs with thin shells that broke during incubation.
By 1963, only about 417 nesting pairs remained in the lower 48 states. Congress had passed the Bald Eagle Protection Act in 1940, and the bald eagle was later protected under endangered species laws. The United States banned DDT in 1972, after public concern sparked in part by Rachel Carson's 1962 book 'Silent Spring'.
The recovery was dramatic. The bald eagle was removed from the endangered species list in 2007, and a 2021 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimate counted about 316,700 bald eagles in the lower 48 states. In December 2024, the bald eagle was officially named the national bird of the United States. Who created Save the Eagles Day is not documented.
Why Save the Eagles Day Matters
The bald eagle's comeback shows that conservation laws and science can reverse even severe declines.
Eagles and other raptors still face threats, including lead poisoning from spent ammunition and fishing tackle, collisions with vehicles and power lines, and habitat loss.
Eagles are also important predators and scavengers, helping keep ecosystems healthy, and they inspire many people to care about wildlife.
How to Celebrate Save the Eagles Day
- Go eagle watching: visit rivers, lakes and refuges in winter.
- Use lead-free gear: choose lead-free ammunition and fishing tackle.
- Support raptor centers: donate to or visit a wildlife rehabilitation center.
- Join a count: take part in a winter eagle survey.
- Learn the story: read about DDT and the eagle's recovery.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, share photos of eagles or information about local eagle-watching events. In classrooms, students can learn how DDT affected eagle eggs, track an eagle nest camera or compare bald and golden eagles. At home, families can visit a wildlife refuge or dam where eagles gather in winter, bring binoculars and keep a respectful distance. Never approach a nest, as disturbing eagles is illegal under federal law.
Fun Facts About Save the Eagles Day
- Only about 417 bald eagle nesting pairs remained in 1963.
- The U.S. banned DDT in 1972.
- The bald eagle became the official national bird in December 2024.
Save the Eagles Day FAQs
When is Save the Eagles Day?
Save the Eagles Day is observed on January 10 each year.
Are bald eagles still endangered?
No. Bald eagles were removed from the endangered species list in 2007, but they remain federally protected.
Why did bald eagles nearly disappear?
DDT thinned their eggshells, and habitat loss and hunting also reduced their numbers.
How many bald eagles are there today?
A 2021 estimate counted about 316,700 bald eagles in the lower 48 states.
Is the bald eagle the national bird?
Yes. It was officially designated the national bird in December 2024.
When is the best time to see eagles?
Winter is ideal, when eagles gather near open water to fish.