WINNIPEG – June 23, 2008 – The senior pair of Bald Eagles at the Assiniboine Park Zoo continues to amaze staff and wildlife experts by again hatching and raising two chicks this spring. At least 40 years old, (and possible in their mid-40s), the pair keeps pushing the species’ record for breeding at such an advanced age. Eagles surviving to and breeding at 30 are rare; those living beyond 40 years are truly exceptional (equates to over 110 human years). But old age has not prevented the Zoo’s remarkable Bald Eagles (which mate for life) from continuing their traditional rite of spring. There is no doubt that these birds are world record holders for breeding at such an advanced age.

Arriving at the Zoo in 1973-74 as adults (over 5 years old, since their heads were already white), these injured, unreleasable, and rehabilitated wild birds were donated to the Zoo by Manitoba Conservation’s Wildlife Branch and the Calgary Zoo. The pair then underwent a 9-year courtship before embarking on an annual breeding pattern for the next 25 years, producing 23 offspring. These young eagles have been sent to other zoos in Canada and around the world, where they are highly valued.

Many millions of Zoo visitors have marveled at this spectacular pair of birds, as they call back and forth to each other and tend to their downy chicks. They particularly draw the attention of First Nations people, who view this species with special spiritual significance. These eagles are a true testament to the importance of caring for injured wildlife – both because it is the humane action to take, and it demonstrates the tremendous interpretive value generated by these wonderful ambassadors of the wild.