Overview of Bald Eagle Population
Cabin Point and Glebe Harbor, along with the wider Chesapeake Bay region, are home to a significant population of resident bald eagles. In addition to these year-round inhabitants, the region also hosts various migratory eagles. This area is attractive to eagles as fish are plentiful and the waterways remain fluid, providing a reliable source of food and habitat for the eagles regardless of the season.
Protection of Bald Eagle Nests
It is important to recognize that bald eagle nests are protected under federal law. The Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act (Eagle Act) and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) ensure that nests are safeguarded year-round. These regulations are enforced to support the eagle population and their natural habitats. “A violation of these Acts can result in a criminal fine of $100,000 ($200,000 for organizations), imprisonment for one year, or both for a first offense. Penalties increase substantially for additional offenses, and a second violation of this Act is a felony.” U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
To see if a nest is registered or to register a new nest simply email the Center for Conservation Biology at info@ccbirds.org with a photo of the nest, its coordinates, and any observations of eagle activity. Or you can use the Center for Conservation Biology online VirginiaBaldEagleNestLocator to confirm if the nest is already on the map.
Mating and Nest Building
From October through January, bald eagles engage in critical mating activities and focus on building or maintaining their nests. During this period, observers may witness groups of eagles soaring high above the area or see a mating pair locking talons and spinning toward the ground, an act that serves to form their lifelong bond.
Egg Laying and Incubation
Egg laying and incubation take place from January through April. The eagle pair alternates sitting on the eggs, ensuring constant protection and warmth until the eggs hatch, typically in 35 to 40 days.
Raising the Young
After hatching, eaglets begin their first flights approximately 12 weeks later, usually between February and June, in the morning and evening hours. These young eagles remain near the nest for several weeks following fledging, as they continue to depend almost entirely on their parents for food. Observations in the community have documented eaglets staying close to the nest through September. Afterward, the fledglings typically remain in the nesting territory for an additional six weeks before becoming more independent.
Things to be aware of as we share this community with these magnificent birds:
Avoid disturbance:
Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations 22.6 www.ecfr.gov Indicates Disturb means to agitate or bother a bald or golden eagle to a degree that causes, or is likely to cause, based of the best scientific information available:
- Injury to an eagle,
- A decrease in productivity, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior,
- Nest abandonment, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior.
Follow Guidelines:
For activities near a nest, follow the guidelines from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Virginia Department of Wildlife Services to avoid disturbance.
Obtain a permit:
A federal permit is required for any activity on or around a nest regardless of the nest’s current status. Prohibited within 330 feet anytime and 660 feet during breeding season:
- Firepits/burning
- Fireworks
- Loud, continuous noises, eg. chainsaw
- Clear cutting or removal of overstory trees within 330 feet of the nest at any time.
Please see National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for specific categories of disturbance within 330- 660 feet of any nest. There are many.
This article is an overview only and is in no way a legal document or instruction of any kind. All questions and/or actions and permitting regarding eagles should be directed to U.S Fish and Wildlife Service as per the Eagle Act and MBTA.
posted 10.28.25