Bald Eagles in Ohio: Nest Counts by County

Rising Bald Eagle Population in Ohio

Over the past five years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of bald eagle nests with eggs or eaglets in the state of Ohio. This trend highlights a positive shift in the population of these majestic birds, which have long been a symbol of conservation success.

According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife, the success rate of eagle nests reached 78% in 2025, slightly lower than the 82% recorded in 2024 but higher than the 73% in 2023. This data reflects the ongoing efforts to monitor and protect these important species.

Each spring, the ODNR conducts surveys across the state to estimate the population of nesting bald eagles. As of July 4, the state has documented 964 confirmed active bald eagle nests. These numbers are based on over 1,800 reports from citizens around the state, contributing to the completion of the 2025 bald eagle nest census.

A complete nest census, where every bald eagle nest in the state is counted, is performed less frequently. The last such census was conducted in 2020, which documented 707 active bald eagle nests. Since then, the number of active nests has increased by 36%, showcasing a significant recovery.

The Division of Wildlife follows up on each report, confirming nest locations in 87 of the state’s 88 counties. This thorough process ensures accurate data collection and helps in understanding the distribution and health of the eagle population.

Top Counties for Bald Eagle Nests

The 13 Ohio counties with the highest number of bald eagle nests include:

• Ottawa (112)
• Sandusky (61)
• Erie (40)
• Seneca (36)
• Wyandot (31)
• Trumbull (29)
• Lucas (27)
• Huron (21)
• Wood (20)
• Coshocton (19)
• Knox (19)
• Licking (19)
• Mercer (19)

These areas are home to a significant portion of Ohio's bald eagle population, often due to their proximity to wetlands and large bodies of water. According to the ODNR, bald eagles prefer wetland habitats because they provide easy access to food sources like fish. Lake Erie and other large water bodies serve as prime locations for these birds.

Conservation Success Story

Bald eagles were once an endangered species in Ohio. In 1979, there were only a few nesting pairs in the state. However, through dedicated conservation efforts, the population has made a remarkable comeback. The bald eagle was removed from the federal list of threatened and endangered species in 2007 and from the State of Ohio list in 2012.

ODNR Director Mary Mertz highlighted this achievement, stating, “The bald eagle is one of Ohio’s great conservation success stories. The eagle’s remarkable comeback over the last few decades, both in Ohio and nationwide, proves how much we can accomplish when we conserve and protect habitat.”

Protecting Bald Eagles

It is illegal to disturb bald eagles because they are protected under state law and the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The ODNR emphasizes the importance of respecting an eagle’s space when encountering them in the wild. It is recommended to maintain a distance of at least 100 yards from these birds to avoid causing them stress or harm.

For those interested in learning more about supporting Ohio’s wildlife, additional resources are available. A map of eagle nests by county in the State of Ohio can be viewed online, providing valuable insights into the distribution of these iconic birds.