Kirkland moves fireworks show to protect nesting eaglets

Kirkland is shifting its 4th of July fireworks show to protect a symbol of America.

A bald eagle’s nest in Heritage Park, overlooking Lake Washington, is home to nesting babies. At the request of
Eastside Audubon, the Kirkland group producing the fireworks show has agreed to move the fireworks barge farther from the nest and aim the shells in the other direction.

Last year, one eaglet was spotted in the same nest.

“This year, there are two eaglets on the nest and the fact that the nest is a little more crowded than it is in some years means that there’s even a greater risk for one to tip out,” said Mary Birsson, board member with Eastside Audubon.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service requires that fireworks be kept at least half-a-mile away from an active eagle’s nest and recommends separation of one mile.

Eastside Audubon says high-power scopes will let visitors view the eaglets at Heritage Park on the 4th of July.