A recent survey of America’s favorite bird found over 700 nests this year in the state of Ohio.

That’s really big news, considering in 1979 there were just 4 pairs of Bald Eagles in the whole state. 

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Bald Eagles in the United States have long struggled with habitat destruction and food contamination from chemicals like DDT. 

But nationwide conservation efforts over the past four decades have made a massive impact. Bald Eagles were removed from the federal list of threatened and endangered species in 2007. 

Five years later they were removed from Ohio’s state list.

The majestic bird of prey is making big strides in other states as well. 

Last week, the Arizona Game and Fish Department shared photos of bald eagles nesting within the arms of a saguaro cactus — a scene that hadn’t been documented since 1937.

Bald eagles are protected by both state laws and the federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection and Migratory Bird Treaty acts, and disturbing them is a crime. 

Wildlife authorities say birdwatchers should observe them from at least 100 yards away, as approaching a nest could lead parents to abandon their eggs.

This is yet another reminder that conservation efforts can be successful and it is more important now than ever to protect our wildlife both in this country and around the world.