PICKAWAY COUNTY, OH – July 3, 2025
Just in time for Independence Day, Pickaway County has something extra patriotic to celebrate — the steady rise of bald eagles nesting in the area. According to the 2025 Bald Eagle Nest Census by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Pickaway County is now home to 8 active bald eagle nests, a remarkable increase from a handful of nests recorded just over a decade ago.
Back in 2012, bald eagles were virtually nonexistent in Pickaway County. By 2020, a small but hopeful number — three active nests — had been recorded. Fast forward to 2025, and that total has grown again, showcasing the impact of local conservation efforts and healthier wetland habitats.
Statewide, the story is even more impressive. Ohio now boasts 964 confirmed active bald eagle nests in 87 of its 88 counties. The data was gathered through more than 1,800 public reports, which were followed up with field verifications by ODNR staff. An active nest is defined as one with an incubating adult, eggs, or eaglets present.
Top counties for eagle nesting remain those near Lake Erie, where wetlands provide prime conditions: Ottawa (112 nests), Sandusky (61), Erie (40), and Seneca (36) lead the pack. But interior counties like Pickaway show that even areas without large water bodies are seeing eagle rebounds.
This year’s nest success rate statewide was 78%, with an average of 1.3 eaglets per active nest. While slightly lower than 2024’s 1.6 eaglets, it still reflects a thriving and expanding bald eagle population.
The bald eagle’s dramatic recovery — from just four nesting pairs in Ohio in 1979 to today’s statewide numbers — is a conservation success story. Though no longer listed as endangered, the birds remain protected under both state law and the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Observers are reminded to keep a respectful distance of at least 100 yards from nests to avoid disturbing these iconic raptors.
Residents are encouraged to report nest sightings through wildohio.gov or the HuntFish OH app. Conservation funding comes from donations, specialty license plates, and the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp.
So this Fourth of July, look up — not just for fireworks, but for a soaring symbol of freedom that’s made a proud return to Pickaway County skies.
