Soaring back, the recovery of the northern bald eagle

Northern bald eagles, once nearly extinct due to pesticide-induced sterility, have made a significant recovery thanks to regulations. These large eagles, with wingspans over 7 feet, are powerful predators. However, they remain vulnerable to habitat loss and human disturbances.

What is the wingspan of the Northern bald eagle?

• Over 6 feet

• Over 7 feet

• Over 8 feet

• Over 5 feet

How fast can Northern bald eagles glide?

• Over 20 mph

• Over 30 mph

• Over 40 mph

• Over 50 mph

What was a major cause of the Northern bald eagle population decline in the 1960s?

• Climate change

• Pesticide chemicals

• Habitat destruction

• Hunting

What effect did pesticides have on Northern bald eagles?

• Made them aggressive

• Caused them to migrate

• Increased their lifespan

• Made them sterile or unable to lay healthy eggs

What is a current threat to the Northern bald eagle population?

• Overfishing

• Loss of suitable habitat

• Increased predators

• Air pollution