In the midst of uncertain times and a public health crisis, it’s comforting to know that Mother Nature still runs its course—and in some cases, it thrives. Recent data released from the Ohio Division of Wildlife shows that the bald eagle is officially making a comeback in Ohio. If you’ve ever taken the time to birdwatch and photograph these gorgeous birds, you know just how special this natural phenomenon is.

Both a symbol of national pride and a majestic creature that’s always beautiful to see, the bald eagle is making its way back to the Buckeye State—and we’re more than happy.

Pat Bell/Flickr Although this awe-inspiring bird of prey is no longer considered to be an endangered species, it’s still considered a threatened species and it’s not common to spot one in Ohio.

According to a recent Facebook post from the Ohio Division of Wildlife, 707 bald eagle nests were reported and confirmed in the state of Ohio from February - March in 2020.

Ohio Division of Wildlife/Facebook To put it in perspective: That’s an increase of 151% from the 2012 census, when 281 nests were recorded in Ohio, according to the Facebook post.

Nest locations were verified in 85 of Ohio’s 88 counties. The five counties with the most nests were Ottawa (90), Sandusky (50), Erie (32), Trumbull (26) and Seneca (24).

Erik Drost/Flickr To view a complete list of counties and the number of nests reported, visit the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s website.

One of the most popular places to spot these majestic birds is Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, which is temporarily closed due to social distancing guidelines and COVID-19 concerns.

Jen Goellnitz/Flickr Magee Marsh Wildlife Area is arguably the state’s top bird-watching spot—featuring more than 300 species of birds. You can find this peaceful refuge along western Lake Erie, between Toledo and Port Clinton.

Regardless of how long it takes the Buckeye State to conquer the current public health crisis, take heart in the fact that the regal bald eagle soars over our state once again.

Rodney Campbell/Flickr

What do you think? Have you spotted any bald eagles this year? Share your thoughts and photos with us!

Pat Bell/Flickr

Although this awe-inspiring bird of prey is no longer considered to be an endangered species, it’s still considered a threatened species and it’s not common to spot one in Ohio.

Ohio Division of Wildlife/Facebook

To put it in perspective: That’s an increase of 151% from the 2012 census, when 281 nests were recorded in Ohio, according to the Facebook post.

Erik Drost/Flickr

To view a complete list of counties and the number of nests reported, visit the ODNR Division of Wildlife’s website.

Jen Goellnitz/Flickr

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area is arguably the state’s top bird-watching spot—featuring more than 300 species of birds. You can find this peaceful refuge along western Lake Erie, between Toledo and Port Clinton.

Rodney Campbell/Flickr

For more beautiful creatures to be on the lookout for in Ohio, check out our previous article: Thousands Of Adorable Jungle Songbirds Will Be Making Their Way Through Ohio In May.

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Address: Ohio, USA