Much as we admire them, they’re facing a serious threat – namely lead poisoning. Scientists believe the primary lead source comes from hunter’s ammunitions. Evidence was found in feathers, bones, livers or blood of 1,200 bald eagles and golden eagles. Often taking in lead poisoning can lead to death and slow population growth. A surprise to me while driving through Cape Breton, Nova Scotia were two Bald Eagles landing in the middle of the highway. The number of Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) visiting Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley during the winter has increased dramatically. On the roads during January and February, one easily counts several hundred eagles and may see more than 30 perched in a single tree. <Photo – Bald Eagles congregated at a Sheffield Mills feeding area in the Eastern Annapolis Valley. Credit – Rick Harley> Most Nova Scotia eagle nests are found on Cape Breton Island, around Bras D’or Lake in areas of shallow water and irregular coastlines. Nests are common along coasts of Antigonish and Pictou counties. They like mainlands on lakes, rivers, and coastal bays. <Information from The N. S. Department of Lands & Forests.>