ACM Forestry Graduates Aid Bald Eagle Survival on Potomac River.

On March 31 and April 17 Justin Wilson (ACM Forestry class of 2003) and Ryan Galligan (ACM Forestry class of 2006) assisted Libby Mojica and Bryan Watts of William and Mary College collect research data on Bald Eagles at the Naval Support Facility at Indian Head, Charles County, MD.

The task was to climb into three active eagle nests and lower the juvenile birds to the ground so that body measurements and blood samples could be taken and identification bands could be installed. The timing is critical and closely monitored by the researchers so that we enter the nest at a time when the birds are mature enough for handling, yet young enough so they do not attempt escape. The adult Bald Eagles, contrary to common thought, do not bother the climbers while they are in the nest. All of this is part of the ongoing effort to reduce mortality rates in eagle offspring on the base, which in recent years has been more significant than other nesting sites.

Justin Wilson and Ryan Galligan are employed by the Bartlett Tree Expert Company and as help support a ACM Alumni/Bartlett Employee Scholarship.