Bald Eagles Nest in Suburban Backyard, Bring Nature’s Majesty

A pair of bald eagles has taken up residence in a cedar tree in a suburban backyard in British Columbia, marking a significant moment for local wildlife enthusiasts. This nesting site, chosen earlier this year, has intrigued the homeowners, who were initially unaware of the eagles’ presence until a neighbor spotted them transporting materials from the nearby shore.

The homeowners expressed their excitement and sense of pride at hosting these majestic birds, which are often seen as symbols of wild beauty. They noted that the eagles, still tending to their brood as of now, have created a nest situated at the height of a ten-storey building, leaving the observers on the ground curious about the number of hatchlings and their survival rates. Despite the distance, the couple occasionally catches glimpses of the white heads of the adults against the blue sky.

While the eagles present a stunning visual display, their impact is felt more profoundly at ground level. The birds, known for their impressive appetite, leave behind significant waste on the homeowners’ deck, a stark reminder of their presence. One incident had the homeowner’s wife jokingly recalling a local belief from her childhood in Steveston that being defecated on by a seagull brings good luck. She humorously considered her experience with the eagles as a sign of fortune, although the reality of the mess was less appealing.

The eagles’ hunting activities also litter the yard with remnants of their meals, including various bird and fish carcasses, which became a point of concern for the homeowners. One disturbing find was initially thought to be a fallen eaglet but was later identified by a local birder as a gosling.

In addition to their physical presence, the eagles are incredibly vocal. Unlike the weak calls often attributed to bald eagles, these two are described as loud and persistent, resembling a car alarm in sound. Their calls echo throughout the neighborhood, especially in the early hours, often waking both the homeowners and nearby residents. The couple has grown accustomed to this early morning symphony, appreciating the wild nature of their surroundings despite the disruptions.

British Columbia is home to one of the highest concentrations of bald eagles globally, with estimates ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 birds. For the homeowners, the sight of a nesting pair in their backyard serves as a reminder of the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity, particularly as they reflect on the changes in their neighborhood over the years.

Once a thriving habitat for various wildlife, this suburban area has witnessed a decline in biodiversity. Three decades ago, the landscape was rich with an unbroken canopy of trees, providing shelter to many species, including opossums, coyotes, and numerous songbirds. Over the years, increasing development has led to the removal of many mature trees to accommodate new homes, altering the ecological balance and reducing wildlife populations.

Despite this decline, the presence of the eagles stands out as a beacon of hope. The homeowners feel fortunate to observe these magnificent creatures nesting amidst the encroaching suburban landscape. They often find themselves gazing up at the nest, contemplating the challenges the eagles face in their precarious situation, exposed to the elements and potential predators.

As they await the moment when a fledgling takes its first leap from the nest, the couple finds solace in the resilience of nature, hoping that the eagles will thrive in their unusual suburban environment. Their experience serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between urban development and wildlife conservation, highlighting the importance of preserving natural habitats for future generations.