- Midwest Eagles
- Natural History
- Activities Near Nests
- Permits
- Protections
- Population and Nest Data
- Eagle Viewing
- History of Decline and Recovery
- Eagle Feather - Can I keep it?
- Help, I found a dead/injured eagle!
USFWS Offices and Refuges Near You
The Midwest Region includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin. Find a location near you »
Conserving the Nature of America
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Bald and Golden Eagles in the Midwest
Photo courtesy of Mick Thompson; creative commons
After nearly disappearing from most of the United States decades ago, the bald eagle is now flourishing across the nation, and particularly in the upper Midwest. Here, bald eagle sightings are often common during both the nesting season and over winter.
Bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Permits are available for some activities and actions that involve or impact bald and golden eagles. A link for more information about how eagles are protected and the eagle permits program is provided below.
Resources
Eagle biology and ecology, nest and feather identification, and
eagle protection laws.
Guidance for projects near nests; avoiding conflicts; reducing disturbance to eagles.
Find out if a permit is recommended and how to apply.
Learn More
Are Eagles Protected?
Photo by Tony Hisgett/Creativecommons
Bald eagles are no longer an endangered species, but bald and golden eagles are still protected under multiple federal laws and regulations. Eagles, their feathers, as well as nest and roost sites are all protected.
Learn more about eagle protections»
Eagle Nesting Data
Photo by Jessica Bolser/USFWS
Many states tracked the number of bald eagle nests over time. But, as numbers of eagles have grown, monitoring techniques have changed.
Learn more about eagle nesting data»
Eagle Viewing
Photo by Tim Kaufman; USFWS
Eagles may gather in number at certain times and locations. Find out where and when to get a good look.
Learn more about eagle viewing»
Help! I found a dead or injured eagle!
Photo by USFWS
If you have found a dead or injured eagle, find out what steps to take next.
What to do if you find a dead or injured eagle»
Eagle Feathers
Photo by USFWS
Eagle parts, including their feathers, are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
Learn more about eagle feathers»
History of Bald Eagle Decline, Protection and Recovery
Photo by Dave Menke; USFWS
After dramatic declines in numbers caused by the use of the insecticide DDT, the bald eagle was protected under the Endangered Species Preservation Act of 1966 and then the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
Bald Eagle History under the ESA »
Questions?
Photo by USFWS
If you have questions about eagles or need further assistance, please contact an eagle biologist at for your state, or email us at midwesteagle@fws.gov