Expert: Raptor Population is Healthy

By Jim Morris Staff Writer

Ohioans are seeing more bald eagles, peregrine falcons and osprey these days. So many, in fact, that the Ohio Department of Natural Resources has proposed taking all three raptors off the state’s endangered species list.

The proposal to change the status of all three species from endangered to threatened was made Wednesday by the Division of Wildlife to the Ohio Wildlife Council, which will listen to public comments and then act at its April 2 meeting.

"All down-listing does is show the public that the population of a species has grown significantly and is healthy," said Todd Haines, district manager for the Division of Wildlife.

"When a species is ‘endangered’ it means it is in danger of extinction. When it is taken off the list, it is good news."

All three birds will continue to be protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. The bald eagle will have additional protection under the Bald Eagle Protection Act.

Killing any threatened or endangered species can result in a significant criminal charge and fine.

Public comments will be entertained at the annual Wildlife District 5 Open House March 2 at the Greene County Fish & Game Club, 1538 Union Road, Xenia Twp.

For more information, visit wildohio.com or call (800) WILDLIFE.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2409 or jmorris@DaytonDailyNews.com

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