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Juli Ponder with Maxine at the University’s Raptor Center
PHOTO BY RICHARD ANDERSON
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The University’s Raptor Center has made significant contributions to the preservation of the bald eagle, from restoration programs to investigating the effects of contamination. These and other nationwide contributions have paid off, too.
Fueled by a reduction in threats, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced the removal of the bald eagle from the endangered species list on July 9th, 2007—the population in the lower 48 States is approximately 20 times greater now than in 1963.
Minnesota is a leader in bald eagle preservation as well; the state estimated 1,312 nesting pairs in 2005, which is nearly double the pairs since 2001. Dr. Juli Ponder, executive director of The Raptor Center says, "This is fantastic news, and while the eagle is still protected by federal law, we shouldn’t forget our responsibility to maintain habitats and protect the environment."
Each year, the Center treats approximately 800 eagles, hawks, owls, and falcons; reaches thousands through public education; provides training in surgery and avian medicine to veterinarians worldwide; and identifies emerging issues related to raptor health and populations.
Dr. Pat Redig, cofounder of the Raptor Center, led the University's efforts to restore the bald eagle. "In our 30-year history, we have treated over 1,600 eagles. Now, our promise is to continue to care for this bird in any way we can."
From the 2007 edition of Research, an annual publication of the OVPR.
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