On June 14, 1979, Audubon staff member Doris Mager made a strong stand for Florida’s birds of prey – she climbed into an inactive Bald Eagle nest and stayed there for six days and five nights. The purpose of this bold stunt was to raise awareness of the plight of the Bald Eagle and to raise funds to build a premier rehabilitation facility to care for injured birds. Her efforts were successful - and four months later the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey opened its doors.

To many, the Bald Eagle stands as a symbol of long life and great strength – and one facility in Virginia is making sure that this proud predator lives up to its reputation.

It’s a success story to be proud of – the American Bald Eagle’s removal from the endangered species list. But this respected raptor serves as more than just a symbol of long life and great strength, it provides information on the health of our environment.