The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service hopes to have the bald eagle removed from the threatened species list by the end of the year, The New York Times reports.

The bald eagle was at the edge of extinction in the 1960s due to chemical pollutants and other environmental threats. But officials now count a total of 7,678 nesting pairs. Eagles are in every state except Vermont and Rhode Island.

If the eagle is delisted, it will still be protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The laws prohibit the possession, transport, sale or taking of eagle parts and feathers.

Native Americans are granted an exception and can apply for an eagle permit through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that members of non-federally recognized tribes may seek a permit. Non-Indians are still barred.

Get the Story:
Thriving Bald Eagle Finding Its Way Off Endangered List (The New York Times 5/19)
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Relevant Links:
Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act - http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/baldegl.html
Migratory Bird Treaty Act - http://www.usbr.gov/laws/mbta.html

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