Having the opportunity to participate in the 2025 Mid-Winter Bald Eagle Survey was paradoxically exhilarating and humbling. As a volunteer, this experience helped me gain a deeper appreciation of the resilience of these iconic birds of prey, as well as the importance of community science in Vermont's conservation efforts.

Assigned to the Burlington Waterfront and Lake Morey area, my day began with an early start. Although I was unaware of what to expect there was a palpable sense of anticipation as I scanned the skies and the shoreline for signs of Bald Eagles. While the weather was clear, and the water calm, I found myself staring out over the expanse of the lake, mentally preparing for what could be a long stretch of waiting. Luckily, it wasn’t too long before I spotted my first eagle—a majestic adult perched on a nearby tree, observing the water with characteristic intensity. Over the course of my survey, I was fortunate enough to spot three more eagles, either alighted on a tree branch or gliding overhead. It was exhilarating and I felt privileged to observe them in their natural habitat.

The open water and surrounding wooded areas of the waterfront create an ideal environment for Bald Eagles, and so it was reassuring to see the population thriving here. The sight of these eagles was a reminder of the incredible recovery these birds have made in the last decades to overcome the challenges of habitat loss, illegal shootings, and the debilitating effects of DDT.

After finishing my survey at the Burlington Waterfront, the following week I made my way to Lake Morey. Unlike the vibrant activity I’d experienced earlier, Lake Morey was frozen over, and I saw no signs of eagles. The lake, which in warmer months is often a good spot for observing waterfowl and birds of prey, had become a quiet, still expanse of snow and ice. Though the lack of eagles was a bit disappointing, it was not surprising given the frozen conditions. Bald Eagles, like many birds, are highly adapted to their environment, and ice-covered lakes can be more difficult to navigate in search of food.

While my time at Lake Morey was indeed quiet, it still provided valuable insight into the behavior and migration patterns of eagles during the winter months. Eagles often travel in search of open water and food, and the frozen lake was a good reminder of the challenges they face during this time of year. Reflecting on the survey, I feel a deep appreciation for the role that community scientists play in the ongoing monitoring and conservation of Bald Eagles. The data collected through surveys, like this one, helps biologists track population trends, identify nesting sites, and assess the overall health of eagle populations. It also reinforces the importance of preserving habitats like the Burlington Waterfront and keeping our ecosystems intact for future generations of both wildlife and people.

While I didn’t see any eagles it was a reminder that even on quiet days or during challenging conditions, every observation contributes to the larger picture of wildlife conservation. And, above all, it was a day that reminded me of how interconnected we all are with the natural world and how vital it is to protect the magnificent creatures that share it with us.

Thanks to the dedicated effort of 55 volunteers who surveyed 33 routes across the state from January 3rd to 17th, a total of 99 Bald Eagles were counted this year. While this is a decrease from last year’s count of 127, the cold weather and frozen lakes likely kept eagles from congregating in their usual areas. Nevertheless, these numbers highlight the ongoing resilience of the species and the importance of continued monitoring to ensure their recovery and protection.