At-Risk birds of prey make London their home
Many people have been noticing that some birds of prey seem to be increasing in numbers in the London area. They are absolutely right in the case of Peregrine Falcons and Bald Eagles, both of which have increased in numbers around the city in recent years. This is wonderful news since both are classified as Species-at-Risk by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.
The original decline in both of their populations was due to a reduction in their reproductive success and habitat loss. Recent increases in their populations have been attributed to increases in their reproductive success coinciding with a significant reduction in the use of toxic chemicals (particularly DDT) around the Great Lakes since the 1980’s. The recovery is also thanks to various private organizations and government agencies that have developed conservation programs to protect nesting sites and re-establish breeding populations.
This pair of Bald Eagles was recently observed over several days in the Coves area. Perhaps they were looking for a new nesting site or hunting spot. (Photo courtesy of Mark Spitzig) If anyone spots them hanging around again, drop us a note, we would love to hear about it.
“The sensitivity of Bald Eagles to toxic chemicals has led scientists and conservation groups to identify the birds as a bio-sentinel species, meaning that the health of eagles can be taken as a reliable indicator of the health of aquatic ecosystems in the Great Lakes region”, (Environment Canada 2001). Therefore, more healthy Bald Eagles in London reflect better health of London’s aquatic ecosystem.
Though chemicals are no longer suppressing populations, habitat loss is still a critical factor. Bald Eagles prefer to nest in the tallest tree found in an upland wooded area near water. Development for agriculture, residences and recreation continues to deplete and degrade appropriate shoreline habitat - another reason to protect our urban woodlands and shorelines in London.
For more information, check out this fact sheet from Environment Canada on Bald Eagle populations around the Great Lakes HERE
Also check out these two recent articles in the London Free Press about Birds of Prey and Bald Eagles in London