Bald Eagle Banding: A Rare Look at Conservation Work in Maine

When I received an invitation to witness Maine’s bald eagle conservation efforts firsthand, I knew it was a rare and meaningful opportunity. As a wildlife photographer, I’ve always had deep respect for the quiet, tireless work that happens behind the scenes. What unfolded was an unforgettable day with a team of dedicated biologists, and one very scruffy young eaglet.

The property owners were kind enough to include me as their family joined a team of biologists working to tag a young bald eagle on their property. We gathered at the base of a tall pine tree, watching in silence as one member of the team prepared for a climb.

Once at the nest, he gently placed the eaglet into a soft duffle bag, zipped it up securely, and began the careful process of lowering her down. Everyone below remained still, watching with quiet focus.

The team worked quickly but calmly. The eaglet, believed to be a female around six or seven weeks old, was handled with great care. She was measured, had a small blood sample taken, and received two identification bands.

The red band on her right leg marks her as a Maine eagle. The silver band on her left leg links her to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s national tracking system. Interestingly, adult eagles receive bands on the opposite legs.

Throughout the entire process, I kept my distance and used a long zoom lens to avoid disturbing the team or the eaglet. It was important to me to respect the space and intention of the work.

Watching this level of care and dedication firsthand was something I’ll never forget. The team’s passion for protecting Maine’s wildlife was evident in every action and word. I’m incredibly grateful to them — and to Rick and Michele — for allowing me a behind-the-scenes look at something so few people ever get to witness.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in protecting these magnificent birds.

I’m deeply grateful to the biologists and volunteers who dedicate their time to safeguarding Maine’s wildlife, and to Rick and Michele for allowing me to witness such an intimate conservation effort. Sharing these moments through photography is my small way of supporting their mission and raising awareness of the incredible work happening right here in our backyard.