During the early 1960s, the nesting eagle population was estimated at about 412 pairs in the 48 contiguous states. In 1982, the number of nesting pairs was up to 1,482. Based on the most recent data, there are 7,066 nesting pairs of bald eagles in the lower 48 states. Eagles nest in every state except Hawaii and Vermont. South Carolina ranks twelfth in the nation in terms of the numbers of nesting bald eagle pairs. In 1977, there were 13 occupied nesting territories in South Carolina and by 2005 the state’s population increased to 208 pairs.

South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area
843-844-2473
coastbio@dnr.sc.gov