Israeli Nature Authority Successfully Adopts Two Imperial Eagle Chicks Into Wild Nests
The Science Division of Israel's Nature and Parks Authority has reported the successful adoption of two imperial eagle chicks into wild nests in northern Israel. These operations were part of a unique active intervention program aimed at preserving and stabilizing the declining population of imperial eagles in the country. The first chick was found during an Israel Police search in the north, while the second was rescued by a resident in the West Bank and initially treated at the Ramat Gan Safari Wildlife Hospital before being transferred for adoption.
The adoption process involved meticulous identification of suitable nests from dozens monitored for research, followed by rapid and quiet integration of the chicks to avoid disturbing the nesting pairs. Continuous monitoring with special cameras confirmed that the chicks were accepted, fed by their new parents, and are now in stable condition. This effort is part of a long-term study tracking about 40 imperial eagle nests to understand factors behind the species' low breeding success over the past decade, including parasites, egg and chick predation, human disturbances, and infrastructure impacts.
Imperial eagles are large, territorial, and aggressive diurnal raptors, making chick adoption a challenging endeavor due to potential rejection by foster parents. Previous attempts were rare, making these two successful adoptions a practical breakthrough in active conservation methods. Dr. Gilad Friedman, a raptor ecologist with the Authority, emphasized that their research and monitoring system enables real-time, science-based interventions that effectively protect wildlife.
The imperial eagle primarily nests in cliffs, woodlands, and open areas in northern and central Israel. Its population has sharply declined recently, partly due to illegal chick theft, which not only reduces wild numbers but also harms the chicks’ survival chances due to tagging injuries. The simultaneous successful integration of two chicks into separate nests provides the Authority with a proven tool to support the species’ recovery in coming years.
