AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL) - U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville confirmed his office is closely monitoring the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) investigation into the removal of a bald eagle nest in Auburn. The nest, home to a bonded pair of eagles affectionately known as "Jim" and "Pam," was destroyed on November 15 under a federal permit issued to Edgar Hughston Builder, Inc., sparking public outrage and demands for accountability.
In a letter to Auburn resident Jason Haynie, Tuberville emphasized the importance of protecting bald eagles, a national symbol of strength and freedom, and outlined the USFWS guidelines for nest removal. “Nest removal is prohibited if adult eagles, visible eggs, or young are present, and the permit holder is responsible for confirming the nest is empty before removing it,” Tuberville wrote. He also revealed that the case has been referred to the USFWS Office of Law Enforcement and encouraged residents with information to contact the USFWS tip line.
Hughston Homes, the developer behind the project, is moving forward with plans to build 46 homes on the 75-acre site near North College Street. The property, purchased in March 2024 for $760,000, is currently being cleared.
Auburn District 3 City Councilwoman and Mayor Pro-Tem Beth Witten revealed she had a scheduled meeting with Hughston Homes to discuss alternatives to save the nest. However, before the meeting could take place, Witten said the developer removed the single tree on the property that housed the eagles' nest.
“The timing of their actions was incredibly disappointing,” Witten said. “This nest was an important part of our community, and we had hoped to explore ways to protect it.” Amid mounting frustration, Witten has organized a public meeting to address the community’s concerns. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, November 26, at 6 p.m. at the Buston Training Center. Andrew Hopkins, raptor administrator at Auburn University’s Raptor Center, will provide expert insight into the removal’s impact on local wildlife.
The nest, a fixture in the Auburn community since at least 2017, was well-known and beloved by residents. Its removal has drawn criticism of both the developer and the permitting process.
The USFWS issued the permit on October 30, 2024, requiring the developer to provide mitigation funding to the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ALDCNR) and to monitor eagle activity before and after the removal. However, questions remain about the enforcement of these guidelines and the timing of the nest’s destruction.
Senator Tuberville’s office has pledged to remain engaged as the investigation unfolds. Meanwhile, residents are encouraged to attend the November 26 meeting to voice their concerns and demand answers from local officials and wildlife experts.
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