During the 1960s and 70s, the bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus was nearly lost because of environmental pollution. The widespread use of DDT caused the shells of the eagles' eggs to be very thin, and the eggs were crushed when the parents tried to incubate them. Fortunately, thanks to conservation efforts, including the discontinuation of DDT in North America, and extended protection through Canadian and US laws, the bald eagle is making a comeback. Nesting areas in both countries are producing more young and the species is making a slow return to areas where it once was common.
Through the miracle of 21st century technology, we can now watch the intimate activity in an eagle nest. Cameras placed near a nest record everything, including nest repair by the parents, egg laying and incubating, raising the young, and fledging. Cameras allow us to observe and learn more about the biology of these majestic birds without disturbing them. With streaming video, the images can be broadcast over the Internet, bringing a once-remote animal into our homes and schools. Season of the Eagle demonstrates what we can see and learn if we watch with serious interest and affection.