advertisement
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.
advertisement
Among its many natural wonders, Arizona’s National Parks stand out as some of the most iconic and awe-inspiring places in the United States. These parks not only showcase the state’s geological and biological diversity but are also icons of the beauty of America’s natural heritage. Here’s a look at Arizona’s National Parks and what makes each one unique. advertisement 1. Grand Canyon National Park Best For: Iconic Views, Hiking, and Photography Arguably the most famous park in Arizona (and in the world), Grand Canyon National Park is an absolute must-see. The Grand Canyon spans 277 miles and is over a
Arizona is commonly known as the “Valley of the Sun” with over 300 days of sunshine a year. There are so many sunny days in Arizona that Phoenix has more sunshine days per year than any other metropolitan area in the country. In other words, if you suffer from Seasonal affective disorder, Arizona might be the state for you. The seasons are shorter and milder in Arizona (except perhaps for summer) — Arizona has an early spring with flowers blooming as early as January. Even the slightly chillier winter months won’t last long. Let’s find out what it’s like to
Arizona is famous for its desert landscapes, dramatic sunsets, and historic landmarks. But across the state, another form of art is quietly transforming walls, alleyways, and entire neighborhoods. Street art has become one of the most vibrant and accessible forms of creative expression in Arizona, turning ordinary buildings into outdoor galleries. From massive murals in downtown Phoenix to colorful installations in Tucson and unexpected pieces tucked into smaller towns, Arizona’s street art scene reflects the culture, history, and creativity of the communities that create it. advertisement Phoenix: A Growing Urban Canvas Phoenix has become the center of Arizona’s street art
Long before astronauts set foot on the lunar surface, scientists in Arizona were already studying it in remarkable detail. By the time President John F. Kennedy announced in 1961 that the United States would land a man on the moon before the end of the decade, researchers at the University of Arizona had already begun mapping the moon’s surface. Their work would prove critical to the success of NASA’s robotic missions and the historic Apollo landings. At the center of this effort was Gerard P. Kuiper, widely known as the father of modern planetary science. advertisement The Birth of Lunar
