TAUNTON RIVER, Mass. — The first ever report of a rare Stellar’s sea eagle in Massachusetts is leading to plenty of excitement among bird watchers, and to some words of caution from wildlife officials.
The photograph in this story was captured by photographer David Ennis last week along the Taunton River in Massachusetts.
A spokeswoman for the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife says this is a a big deal among the birding community because this sea eagle is thousands of miles away from its home in Asia.
“Many birders are already down in that area looking at and photographing the bird,” says Marion Larson of Mass Wildlife. “This is the kind of situation where bird watchers from other states will drive to MA to view this rare sight.”
Wildlife officials say this sea eagle is one of the largest raptors in the world, weighing up to 20 pounds with a wingspan of up to 8 feet.
“We do want to remind the wildlife viewing public to keep a respectful distance from the bird, respect landowners in the area, and ask permission before going on to private land,” says Larson.
Mass Wildlife officials believe this is likely the same eagle that has been observed in Alaska and Canada, and highlighted in a recent Smithsonian magazine article.
The Division of Fisheries & Wildlife offered these guidelines:
-Keep a reasonable distance from wildlife. Use your binoculars and spotting scope rather than your feet, to get “closer” to your subject. If you get too close to an animal its behavior will change. It may stop feeding, look at you, vocalize, appear nervous or flee. If you note a change in behavior, back off slowly until you’re out of the animal’s “space”.
-Be a responsible steward of the land, both public and private. Follow marked trails where indicated and leave an area cleaner than you found it. Get permission in advance before entering private land.
-Show consideration for other wildlife watchers and outdoor users. Speak quietly, move cautiously, and don’t use tapes or calls that might interfere with the viewing experience. Leave pets at home. Some areas prohibit pets!
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