List of U.S. States With Most Bald Eagles

Jan 18, 2026, 04:25 EDT

Highest Bald Eagle Population: Discover the US states with the highest bald eagle populations, including the top 10 states like Alaska, Minnesota, and Florida, and their estimated population figures.

US State with Most Bald Eagles
US State with Most Bald Eagles

Highest Bald Eagle Population: The bald eagle is one of the most recognizable and respected birds in the United States. Known for its white head, powerful wingspan, and sharp eyesight, the bald eagle has long stood as a national symbol of strength, freedom, and resilience. However, there was a time when this majestic bird faced a serious threat of extinction due to habitat loss, illegal hunting, and the widespread use of harmful pesticides.

Over the past few decades, strict wildlife protection laws, habitat conservation programs, and public awareness campaigns have played a major role in restoring bald eagle populations across the country. As a result, these birds have made a remarkable comeback and can now be seen soaring over rivers, lakes, forests, and coastal regions in many U.S. states.

Some states provide especially favorable environments due to abundant water sources, tall nesting trees, and a stable food supply. These conditions allow bald eagles to thrive and reproduce successfully. 

In this article, we will look at U.S. states with the highest bald eagle populations, based on the world population review.

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U.S. States With the Highest Bald Eagle Population

Here is the list of the top 10 states with the highest bald eagle population:

State

Estimated Bald Eagle Population

Alaska

30,000

Minnesota

9,800

Florida

1,500

Wisconsin

1,500

Maryland

1,400–2,000 breeding pairs

Virginia

1,100

Ohio

910

Michigan

900

Washington

900

Maine

800

Source: worldpopulationreview.com

1. Alaska

Alaska ranks first by a wide margin when it comes to bald eagle populations. The state’s vast wilderness, long coastlines, abundant fish supply, and minimal human disturbance make it an ideal habitat. Bald eagles are commonly seen along rivers, coastal areas, and forests throughout Alaska.

2. Minnesota

Minnesota holds the second-highest bald eagle population in the country. The state’s thousands of lakes and rivers provide excellent fishing opportunities, which are essential for eagle survival. Strong conservation programs have helped maintain stable nesting areas across the region.

3. Florida

Florida has one of the strongest bald eagle populations in the southern United States. Wetlands, lakes, and coastal zones offer rich feeding grounds. Continued protection of nesting sites has played a key role in sustaining the species here.

4. Wisconsin

Wisconsin shares similar natural advantages with Minnesota, including lakes, rivers, and forested landscapes. Bald eagle numbers have grown steadily due to habitat preservation and reduced environmental threats.

5. Maryland

Maryland has made impressive progress in bald eagle recovery. The Chesapeake Bay and surrounding waterways provide an excellent environment for nesting and feeding. Conservation efforts have helped restore the species after major population declines in the past.

Recommended Reading:

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Sneha Singh
Sneha Singh

Content Writer

    Sneha Singh is a US News Content Writer at Jagran Josh, covering major developments in international policies and global affairs. She holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University, Lucknow Campus. With over six months of experience as a Sub Editor at News24 Digital, Sneha brings sharp news judgment, SEO expertise and a passion for impactful storytelling.

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