Some people, man… Bald eagles are probably the most iconic birds in North America, renowned for their striking appearance and powerful presence. This bird of prey is the national symbol of the United States, representing freedom and strength. These large raptors typically weight around 10 pounds and have a wingspan ranging from 6 to 7.5 feet. Females are generally larger than males. One of nature’s most skilled hunters, bald eagles are primarily found near large bodies of open water, where they have ample access to their main source of food… fish. However, they are opportunistic feeders and will also consume small mammals, birds, and carrion. Eagles will often swoop down at very high speeds to snatch fish from the water with their powerful talons. Their vision is second to none as they can often spot prey from over 2 miles away. Historically, bald eagles were widespread across North America, but their populations suffered severe declines in the 20th century due to habitat destruction, hunting, and the widespread use of the pesticide DDT, which caused thinning of their eggshells. By the 1960s, the bald eagle population had reached a critically low level, leading to their inclusion on the Endangered Species List in 1967. Concerted conservation efforts, including the banning of DDT in 1972 and the protection of their habitats, have led to a remarkable recovery of bald eagle populations. By 2007, the species was removed from the Endangered Species List, although it remains protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. However… Alabama is not a state that is know for a large number of bald eagles, which makes this story all the more disturbing.