Bald eagles almost always mate for life – a lifespan that may number 25 – 30 years in the wild and up to 50 years in captivity.

Given the many years at their disposal and the size of bald eagles, it is perhaps not surprising that they tend their young in one of the largest nests built by a North American bird. Initially nests measure about 1.5 – 2 metres wide by 1 metre high, though because eagles add to their nests each year, a well-established nest can end up being as much as 3 by 6 metres.

Tofino’s old growth forests and lofty pines offer great locations for bald eagle nests. See if you can spot any when you come to visit.

Frank Island, which adjoins Chesterman Beach during low tide, was home to a magnificent bald eagle nest for many years till wind from the furious storm in June 2023 blew it down. Local Tofino residents were distressed to find the enormous nest on the island containing two chicks and they arranged to have the chicks taken to the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre at Errington.

Thanks to the care given to the chicks at Errington, one of them survived. And the eagle parents? They have cleverly taken up residence in a previously discarded nest on the other side of Frank Island, so they will not have to build a new one from scratch. Tofino locals and visitors are delighted that they can still be able to see the comings and goings of this eagle pair that they have grown so connected to over the years.  I find great hope for nature’s ability to rejuvenate when I observe how the eagle parents nurture, care and protect this year’s chicklet, as one keen local observer calls it.