NJDEP Announces Eagle Born in Monroe at Upper Millstone Nest in 2023
MONROE TOWNSHIP – February 14, 2024 – The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish and Wildlife recently issued its New Jersey Bald Eagle Project 2023 report.
One active nest was reported in Middlesex County at the Upper Millstone site in Monroe Township that was first discovered in 2017.
In Monroe, one eagle egg began incubation in the Upper Millstone nest on January 28, 2023. The egg hatched on March 10, 2023 and became a confirmed fledgling on May 26, 2023.
The statewide population rose to 286 territorial pairs in 2023, an increase of 19 from last year. Two hundred eighty-six nest sites were monitored during the nesting season, of which 255 were documented to be active (with eggs) and 317 were territorial or housekeeping pairs. \
“I am beyond happy to hear that we have a new eagle fledgling soaring over Monroe Township and that we continue to foster an environment where nature’s most majestic birds can thrive,” said Monroe Mayor Stephen Dalina. “We must continue to protect them and resist the urge to approach eagle nests. We are all fascinated to see these majestic symbols of our freedom, but please observe from afar.”
According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, bald eagles usually mate for life, choosing the tops of large trees to build nests, which they typically enlarge each year. They require a steady food source, perching areas and safe nesting sites. Their habitat includes estuaries, large lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and some seacoasts. In winter, the birds congregate near open water in tall trees for spotting prey and night roosts for sheltering.
According to the NJ Bald Eagle Project 2023 report, bald eagles face many threats, with disturbance and habitat loss the greatest threats in NJ. The National Eagle Center notes: “once the eggs are laid, they must be constantly kept warm, or incubated, and protected from predators. The body heat of the parent keeps the developing eggs warm.”
Disturbance is defined as any human activity that causes eagles to change their behavior, including the mere presence of people in nesting or foraging areas which can distract them from normal feeding rituals as well as caring for and protecting their young.
Viewing eagles from safe distances is best for their survival and satisfies our natural desire to see them. Enthusiasts are cautioned to never approach a nest or take measures to touch or feed these natural predators.
The 28-page report details the findings from the Division of Fish and Wildlife’s Endangered and Nongame Species Program (ENSP) biologists, Conserve Wildlife Foundation (CWF) staff and volunteer observers who located and monitored bald eagle nests and territories in New Jersey throughout the January - July 2023 nesting season. The full report is here: 2023 Annual Bald Eagle Report.pdf - Google Drive.
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All media inquiries may be directed to the Monroe Township’s Public Information Officer Stacey Kennedy at 732-521-4400 or