Wild bald eagles may live as
long as thirty years. Bald eagles
can fly to an altitude of 10,000 feet. During level flight, they can achieve speeds of about 30 to 35 mph. An adult eagle's wingspan can range from 72" - 90".

Flying eagle over Norfolk Botanical Gardens
(Image by Mike Inman, 2011. Used with permission) Details DMCA
According to the wiki, "In the late 20th century the Bald Eagle was on the brink of extirpation (local extinction) in the continental United States, although it was flourishing in much of Alaska and Canada." US eagle populations recovered and stabilized, so the species was removed from the US Federal Government List of Endangered Species, and transferred to the Federal List of Threatened Species in 1995. In 2007 the Dept. of the Interior took the American bald eagle off the endangered species list. Currently there are an estimated 9,789 breeding pairs of bald eagles.
NBG invites viewers to "Celebrate our beloved female bald eagle by donating to her permanent memorial bench and plaque." Donors also receive professional photos, many of which are illustrated here.

Renaissance Court at Norfolk Botanical Gardens
(Image by Donald R. Buma, used with permission) Details DMCA
A special dedication ceremony at the NBG will honor the female eagle's contribution to environmental education, and the date will be coordinated with the eaglets' release.

Eagle family nest at Norfolk Botanical Gardens
(Image by James R. Deal 2011, used with permission) Details DMCA
Don Buma, Executive Director of NBG said, "(The eagles) have increased awareness and developed an appreciation of nature for millions of school children and Eagle Cam viewers from around the world."
Many of those viewers are hoping that the male eagle returns next year to continue the cycle of life with a new mate.
RESOURCES AND INFO
Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG)
Norfolk Botanical Garden represents an oasis of over 30 theme gardens encompassing 155 beautiful acres. This diverse natural beauty can be explored by tram, boat or walking tours. NBG is accredited by the American Association of Museums, is recognized as a Virginia Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For more information about the Garden and classes, visit www.norfolkbotanicalgarden.org .
Celebrate Norfolk Botanical Garden's beloved female bald eagle by donating to her permanent memorial bench and plaque. For more information, contact cathy.fitzgerald@nbgs.org or call Cathy at 757-441-5830 ext. 319. click here
Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF)
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