Bald eagle family draws attention at Winton Woods

A family of bald eagles, including a mating pair and their young eaglet, has taken up residence high above Winton Lake in Winton Woods. The eaglet, which hatched in April, is growing quickly and is expected to take its first flight within the next several weeks.

Great Parks will offer viewing sessions in June and July for visitors to observe the birds, which serve as the national symbol of the United States.

“The return of majestic bald eagles to Winton Woods is both gratifying and also a reminder about the importance of Great Parks’ commitment to conservation and habitat preservation,” said Monica Resnik, regional education manager for Great Parks.

Background

The eaglet has begun stretching its wings and moving around the nest. Its dark flight feathers are coming in, and it has already grown to nearly the same size as its parents. Most bald eagles take their first flight between 7 and 10 weeks of age, which means this eaglet could leave the nest before July 4.

Bald eagles have become a conservation success story. In 1979, Ohio recorded only four breeding pairs. As of this year, the Ohio Division of Wildlife reports 986 confirmed nests across the state. The birds no longer appear on state or federal endangered species lists.

To protect the eagles, Great Parks has established a minimum viewing distance of 330 feet. All programs will follow this guideline. Guests should remain quiet and avoid interfering with the eagles’ hunting and nesting behavior. Federal law protects bald eagle nests.

The Great Parks viewing events will take place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 12, and from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, June 15. A final session on Saturday, July 12, will include the option to view the birds from a guided boat tour on Winton Lake.

Registration is available at GreatParks.org.