The group Nature in the City – Toronto says this is the first year in recorded history that Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) have successfully nested in Toronto.

This recovering species require tall trees like pine and poplar, clean water and major lakes or rivers.

The species which reappeared after 50 years, were relatively common in southern Ontario, especially along the shore of Lake Erie.

The population disappeared due to human persecution, overhunting, shoreline development and the contamination of their food source by introduction of pesticides such as DDT.

Use of DDT and some related pesticides these chemicals was restricted in the early 1970’s.

After an intensive re-introduction program and environmental clean-up habitat conservation efforts, the species has gradually rebounded and can once again be seen in much of its former southern Ontario range.

They urge people lucky to spot one to be respectful: keep their distance, avoid disturbances, including the presence of dogs and do not post wildlife locations.