Our national symbol is endangered--by Homeland Security

Our national symbol is endangered--by Homeland Security, by Shirley Phillips

Date published: 7/26/2009

Our national symbol is endangered--by Homeland Security

Most of us know that the bald eagle is our national symbol. Most of us know that the bald eagle came very close to extinction in the past century.

And most of us know that the eagle has enjoyed a recovery as a result of legislation and the vigilance of those who care about these majestic birds.

But how many of us know that there is a bald eagle nest in our national capital?

We think of eagles as birds that thrive in the wilderness, and it is true that they do. But eagles can adapt to human presence--in moderation.

And that is the point. The eagles in the District of Columbia have definitely adapted to an urban atmosphere, but they are now about to be threatened by proposed construction being planned by the Department of Homeland Security.

The nest is on the campus of the old St. Elizabeth's Hospital, where there is still an area that can support them.

It is not the proposed building that is a threat to the eagles. The threat is a proposed road leading to the back of the building.

This project is still in the planning stages, so it is not too late to make changes.

Bald eagles mate for life, and they return to the same nest year after year. These eagles deserve the right to be left alone so they can rear their young undisturbed.

Surely the Department of Homeland Security can plan around their needs.

Shirley Phillips

Spotsylvania

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Date published: 7/26/2009

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