Next time you're in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, look up and you may see something unexpected.
A pair of bald eagles returned to the area within the Pinery Narrows in Brecksville, which are located north of Station Road Bridge Trailhead, to nest during the winter months.
Pamela Barnes, of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, said the bald eagles have returned to the same nesting spot—a good indicator that the eagles will be laying eggs soon.
The return of these birds points to the overall health of the park.
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"A reliable food and water source is needed, so in 2007 it was evident that the Cuyahoga River was well on its way to recovery," said Barnes.
The Cuyahoga River is producing enough fish to support an incoming eagle population. In 2007, it was the first time they were seen in 70 years.
"It's been really significant for a decade that they keep coming back," Barnes said.
Photographers and biologists are constantly surveying the thousands of acres of land for signs of eagles and other species.
In the late winter months, Eagles typically lay one to three eggs, incubating them for 35 days. Barnes said the eagles are extremely sensitive to cold and human disturbance, which is why the park officials have set up a closure around the nesting area.
While the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, bridle trails and the Cuyahoga River will remain open, visitors should observe any posted signs or restrictions.
