Bald Eagles Are Nesting In Mercer County. You Can Now Watch Them

EAST WINDSOR, NJ — Four pairs of bald eagles are currently nesting in Mercer County. And wildlife enthusiasts now have a chance to see them.

The Mercer County Park Commission has launched the “Eyes on Eagles” program, where visitors can view the eagles throughout the spring nesting season. Viewing will be held in person or virtually.

This is the third year of the county’s “Eyes on Eagles” program. The Park Commission has partnered with Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey (CWF) and the Wildlife Center Friends to host the viewing.

In-person public nest viewing will be held at the West Picnic Area at the Mercer County Park. Naturalists and guides will be on hand to help visitors safely view bald eagles with spotting scopes for a closer look.

The viewings will be held on the second Sunday and fourth Friday of the month, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., through May 9.

Two virtual “Eyes on Eagles” panel discussions will offer an even closer look at life in the nest on April 29 and June 3 at 7 p.m.

The Park Commission will air up-to-date video footage of the nest featuring two important stages in eaglet development. The program will be held on Zoom, and expert panelists will provide commentary on eagle behavior, biology and conservation.

Click on this site to register: http://mercercountyparks.org/#!/activities/eyes-eagles.

For the safety of the eagles, all viewing will be held from a distance. Bald eagles and many bird species are sensitive during their nesting season. Visitors must remain on marked trails at all times. Masks and social distancing is mandatory. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.

Any disturbance to wildlife will cause harm, and they may refuse to return in the future.

Public programs will provide important tips to park users on “eagle etiquette,” including information on federal regulations prohibiting the disturbance of bald eagle nests.

Local and regional wildlife photographers are encouraged to share their images of the breeding eagles through email or social media.

Email your images to parksinfo@mercercounty.org with the photographer’s name, or share through social media by tagging or mentioning the Mercer County Park Commission on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Use the hashtag #capitalcountyeagles.

To learn more about the program visit www.mercercountyparks.org or www.conservewildlifenj.org.

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