Eagle numbers soar

The data confirms what Lake Martin eagle watchers already knew: 40 years after the near decimation of the bald eagle population, sightings of our national bird are on the increase here. Six Alabama Power Company employees counted nine eagles here during this year’s annual January survey, which covered 500 miles of Lake Martin shoreline. Though the survey was conducted in compliance with the wildlife management program included in the power company’s license to operate Martin Dam, Alabama Power Company has voluntarily participated in the surveys for more than 27 years.

“APC wants to be fully aware of the location of eagle nests before any construction project begins, so measures can be taken to prevent eagles from being accidentally disturbed,” biologist Chad Fitch explained.