What happens if a bald eagle builds a nest on your property?

What happens if a bald eagle builds a nest on your property?

If you decide to build your house within of the recommended buffer distances of an eagle nest, and the eagles continue to use the nest and raise young, then no federal laws have been violated. However, if the eagle abandons the nest, the nest fails, or the nestlings die, you may be held liable the Eagle Act.

Do you have to report a bald eagle nest?

To report a bald eagle nest that is not currently in our database (search our Historical Bald Eagle Nesting Areas map), e-mail [email protected]. If you suspect a wildlife law violation, report it to the FWC Wildlife Alert Reward Program or call 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).

Are bald eagles protected in Virginia?

The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (Eagle Act). The bald eagle nesting (breeding) season in Virginia is from December 15 through July 15.

How close can you build to a bald eagle nest?

Maintain a buffer of at least 660 feet (200 meters) between project activities and the nest (including active and alternate nests). If a similar activity is closer than 660 feet, then maintain a distance buffer as close to the nest as the existing tolerated activity.

Can you cut down a tree with an eagles nest?

Cutting down a tree that contains an American Bald Eagles’ nest is illegal under the terms of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. A violation can result in penalties ranging from a fine to time in a federal prison and/or house arrest. We have nests that fall down on their own.

Are eagles federally protected?

Bald Eagles are no longer an endangered species, but bald and golden eagles are still protected by multiple federal laws, such as the Eagle Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Lacey Act, and other state and municipal protections.

How common are Bald Eagles in Virginia?

There were only 30 in Virginia, according to the Center for Conservation Biology. Now there are more than 1,500 in the state, nesting mostly along the major tidal rivers along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. Eagles by nature are hunters, targeting fish and small prey.

What do Bald Eagles eat in Virginia?

Bald eagles eat mostly fish, but will also prey upon waterfowl and small mammals, especially in winter. They hunt by perching atop a tree to look for prey, then swooping down and grasping prey in their talons. They will often scavenge for food by stealing prey from other birds or eating carrion and garbage.