MONROE — Bald eagle sightings have, of course, become more common as America’s once-threatened national symbol continues its incredible journey back from near-extinction from much of the continental United States more than 50 years ago.
But what most usually see within a short drive of Toledo is anecdotal — an occasional pair nesting here or there, for instance, while hiking along or within a few miles of the western Lake Erie shoreline. The comeback’s been strong enough that some of those majestic birds have taken up residence along inland lakes, rivers or other waterways, as well.
Rarely, though, except in Alaska, is there such a gathering of eagles as those which congregate behind DTE Energy’s coal-fired power plant in Monroe during the middle of winter.
A conservative estimate of about 100 eagles are in that area now, taking advantage of some 800 acres of certified wildlife habitat that’s part of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge that the United States shares with Canada.