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29 September 2023
Knowing your subjects is crucial when it comes to wildlife management. Understanding a species from its population to its habitat is the backbone of effective conservation. The golden eagle, a cherished and beautiful bird of prey, was one such puzzle in Arizona.
Like many iconic wildlife species, Golden eagles in Arizona are linked to laws created to protect them. In 1940, Congress passed the Bald Eagle Protection Act to protect declining bald eagle populations from various threats. Later, in 1962, the Act was updated to include golden eagles, giving birth to the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, often called the Eagle Act. This expanded protection was vital as golden eagles faced challenges, and conserving them became a shared duty.
Before the new millennium, our knowledge of Arizona golden eagles was limited. We knew little about their population size, preferred habitats, daily behaviors, or essential life rates.
The year 2007 marked a significant moment in golden eagle conservation. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) clarified what “disturb” meant under the Eagle Act. This definition encompassed any activity that might harm an eagle or interfere with their breeding and survival. It was a crucial step in protecting these majestic birds.
In 2009, the USFWS established rules for authorizing “take” under the Eagle Act. However, one essential piece was still missing. For these take permits to align with the Act’s intent of maintaining stable or growing eagle populations, we needed accurate population estimates.
In June 2010, the Arizona Game and Fish Department used these Acts to allow for more hands-on research of these birds to uncover the secrets of golden eagles. The Southwestern Golden Eagle Management Committee comprised 17 state, federal, private, and tribal groups united by a shared commitment to conservation. Through this partnership, the Department secured funding for comprehensive statewide golden eagle surveys.
These surveys were nothing short of an extensive effort, including a two-year nest search, a two-year occupancy assessment, and an ongoing productivity assessment. It was a mission to uncover the hidden world of these impressive birds, understand their behaviors, and reveal their mysteries.
Survey findings uncovered their nesting sites, mapped their behaviors, and provided valuable insights into their breeding success. These discoveries were vital for crafting effective conservation strategies, ensuring the protection of these magnificent birds for future generations.
Every piece of knowledge in wildlife conservation is a step toward a brighter future for our planet’s incredible creatures.
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Arizona is home to an incredibly diverse range of wildlife, and the rich ecosystem faces many challenges, with habitat loss being the most pressing issue, leading to the endangerment of species across the state. Arizona currently has 71 endangered and threatened species, and efforts to protect these species are more essential than ever. Habitat Loss and the Impact on Arizona’s Wildlife Severe drought and climate change are exacerbating habitat loss in Arizona. In addition, non-native diseases and invasive species are further disrupting the delicate balance of Arizona’s ecosystems. These factors have left many of the state’s native species struggling to
Mesa, Arizona, has become the latest city in the Phoenix metro area to implement a ban on feeding wild birds, joining the ranks of Phoenix and Tempe, which have already enacted similar measures. The new law, passed in 2019, aims to curb the growing problem of excessive bird droppings in public spaces and private properties, but it has stirred up mixed reactions from the public.
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Many may not be aware of this, but Arizona faces unique environmental challenges related to air quality. Despite its natural beauty, the state’s air quality frequently falls below ideal levels, raising concerns for residents and visitors alike. Several factors contribute to poor air quality in Arizona, from its geographical features to human activities. Let’s explore why the air quality tends to be bad in this desert state.
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Located in Arizona’s White Mountains, Wenima Valley is a place where nature thrives, serving as a sanctuary for hikers, birdwatchers, and history enthusiasts alike. This serene wildlife area spans nearly three miles along the Little Colorado River, offering an exceptional experience for those eager to explore the intricate beauty of the Arizona wilderness.
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