The bald eagle has long been a symbol of our country and freedom. However, it was also synonymous with endangered species. In 1961, bald eagles were on the brink of extinction, with an all-time low of nearly 400 nesting pairs in the lower 48 states.

Today, the bald eagle population exceeds 316,000, boasting over 71,000 nesting pairs in occupied nests. While several factors contributed to the impressive resurgence of this resilient species, respectful conservation of our shared habitat played a pivotal role. Our Natural Resources and Environmental Planning team actively participates in the safe relocation of eagle nests to support habitat conservation efforts.

Utilities are proactively updating transmission structures in Florida to protect against extreme weather events and ensure consistent power is delivered to residents and businesses. Part of this effort involves conducting wildlife surveys and obtaining permits to protect local species. During initial surveys on a project in central Florida, bald eagle nests were discovered on existing transmission line structures that were scheduled for replacement. The team at Verdantas (formerly Flatwoods) created a management plan for nest relocation. With assistance from Verdantas, the client obtained permits for moving nests to comply with conservation laws and address the increasing number of eagles nesting on artificial structures. The plan included transferring inactive nests to artificial structures within the same territory.

The first eagle nest relocation was carried out successfully, moving the nest to a custom-built, avian-safe monopole. Biologists ensured the nest's inactivity before the transfer and monitored it during the subsequent nesting season. Eagles were observed in their territory within one month of the nest relocation, and incubation by both parents was recorded shortly thereafter. Less than five months from the day the nest was relocated, clucking sounds were heard indicating that the egg was hatching. The chick matured and took flight in late April, which was only seven months from the relocation event. The following year, the eagle pair continued to use the artificial structure and another chick was fledged.

The utility company took other measures to protect the bald eagles while rebuilding the transmission line, including installing conical pole tops and marking power lines with bird diverters to prevent collisions, ensuring all structures were avian-safe and discouraged future nesting.