New Jersey Removes Bald Eagle, Osprey From Endangered List

New Jersey has officially removed the bald eagle and osprey from its endangered species list, reflecting over 40 years of conservation efforts. The bald eagle's status has been upgraded from endangered to 'special concern,' while the osprey is now classified as 'stable.' These changes, announced by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), are based on significant population recoveries attributed to various restoration initiatives, including the banning of DDT in 1972. Historically, bald eagles faced near extinction in New Jersey in the 1970s, with only one known nesting pair remaining. As of 2024, the state boasts a record 293 nesting pairs of bald eagles, demonstrating successful recovery. Despite their delisting, protections will continue under federal guidelines and the New Jersey Endangered and Nongame Species Conservation Act.