Eagles

Adult bald eagles have dark brown plumage with a white head and tail, and yellow bill, eyes, legs, and feet. Juvenile bald eagles are dark brown with white patches and/or spots on the tail, belly, and under the wings. Eagles reach maturity and form their adult plumage around five years. Eagles utilize forested areas for nesting and roosting in mature canopy trees located around habitat edges that provide adequate views of the surrounding areas. Adults also choose areas with fresh or saltwater for foraging and access to a variety of prey.

Bald eagle nesting season begins October 1st and runs through May 15th. Females begin laying a clutch of 1-3 eggs between December and January and incubation lasts about 35 days. Eagles begin to fly, or fledge, around 11 weeks but will remain with the parents near the nest for an additional 4-11 weeks. Most bald eagle pairs will return to the same nest and/or territory each year to build or repair a nest. For more detailed information on eagles, check out the life history and habitat HERE.

The City of Naples currently has one known bald eagle nest within the Seagate neighborhood. The nest is situated high in the canopy of a pine tree on an empty lot near the intersection of Starfish Ave and Seagate Drive. Check out the image below for a map of the location. Residents can report any new nesting eagles and their location to the Natural Resources Division!

Bald Eagle Policy

Eagles and their nests are regulated by the federal government
Disturbing bald eagles during nesting season (October 1st - May 15th) without a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) permit is against the law
- Eagles are often-times found in urban areas where nearby construction activities need to be carefully considered during nesting season
A federal permit through the USFWS may be required for activities within 660 feet of a nest. Check out the requirements for permits HERE.

Additional Resources