After World War II, a highly effective pesticide called DDT was used to control mosquitoes and other insects. Small mammals and birds ingested the poisoned insects and runoff occurred in streams and rivers, leading to the poisoning of Bald Eagles through bioaccumulation.
DDT affected their ability to produce strong egg shells. Despite their ability to reproduce, their eggs broke during incubation.
As a result, Bald Eagle populations decreased until the two species were considered endangered. In 1979, there were only four nesting pairs of Bald Eagles in Ohio.
Banning the use of DDT in 1972, nest site protection and reintroduction efforts were all critical to the successful recovery of the species. Today, the Bald Eagle is no longer considered threatened and is protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
20 апр 2020
