Storm Notes
Good morning all. Power out all across Maine, including my house and work. Writing from a coffee shop with the wind howling outside. For the moment there is still power at the eaglecam site, although I would expect it to go out at some point today.
Despite the challenging weather, this pair and I believe two chicks, are going to face in the next couple of days, they are in a very sturdy white pine with a well built nest. Last year the birds weathered some very strong storms and protected their chicks through it—if any pair of eagles can handle this storm these are the ones.
The worst of the wind is supposed to taper off by eight tonight, but it will still rain and be windy for a couple of days. This nest and the tree that the camera are in, I know have at least weathered 70 mph winds and fortunately the worst that is expected is 60 mph gust today.
Keep in mind as your watch these birds, that there are 400 other pairs of eagle across Maine that are hunkered down as well. The birds along the coast will face wind and rain, while those up north are also facing driving heavy snow.
In reviewing the videos it certainly does appear that the adult is feeding one chick while you can see another. Please keep observing and posting videos—it will be very telling when we see two heads.
I was quite interested to read your comments and watch the video of an owl, most likely a great horned, fly by the nest. I will need to research if great-horned owls have been identified as nest predators of eagles. I was also fascinated to read your comments about both of the adults sitting on the nest over that night. Again, a phenomenon I have not heard of before.
We may loose power where I am and I may not be able to update the blog until tomorrow.
Wing Goodale, BioDiversity Research Institute
Despite the challenging weather, this pair and I believe two chicks, are going to face in the next couple of days, they are in a very sturdy white pine with a well built nest. Last year the birds weathered some very strong storms and protected their chicks through it—if any pair of eagles can handle this storm these are the ones.
The worst of the wind is supposed to taper off by eight tonight, but it will still rain and be windy for a couple of days. This nest and the tree that the camera are in, I know have at least weathered 70 mph winds and fortunately the worst that is expected is 60 mph gust today.
Keep in mind as your watch these birds, that there are 400 other pairs of eagle across Maine that are hunkered down as well. The birds along the coast will face wind and rain, while those up north are also facing driving heavy snow.
In reviewing the videos it certainly does appear that the adult is feeding one chick while you can see another. Please keep observing and posting videos—it will be very telling when we see two heads.
I was quite interested to read your comments and watch the video of an owl, most likely a great horned, fly by the nest. I will need to research if great-horned owls have been identified as nest predators of eagles. I was also fascinated to read your comments about both of the adults sitting on the nest over that night. Again, a phenomenon I have not heard of before.
We may loose power where I am and I may not be able to update the blog until tomorrow.
Wing Goodale, BioDiversity Research Institute
posted by Bald Eaglecam at 11:35 AM
143 Comments:
Thank you so much for keeping us informed. I was like an old Mother hen last night. I couldn't wait to get up this morning to check on our friends. This couple real is something else -- bless their hearts.
It's wonderful to see the eagle sitting in the nest during these crazy winds. It's encouraging. What an amazing sight!
I'm speachless. I just pray they will be alright and also the other birds up there. She looks so calm, just like this is an everyday event. Had to watch, but hard to leave and go do anything else.
When I read about the owl, I thought Wow! Must have been a very stupid owl or a very hungry one to take on two adult eagles. I'd never heard of anything like that. It surprised me.
A few years back my brother, who's a Master Maine Guide, and I were fishing on a remote lake in northwestern Maine. A resident bald eagle shot down toward the water like a bullet and killed a loon. We couldn't believe it. It took him/her a long time to get it to shore, but once it did, it just sat there uncaring of spectators and enjoyed the meal.
You're right, Wing. The eagles up north are weathering some mighty fierce cold weather. The wind on those northern lakes can be as strong as the ones on the coast.
Thanks for the post.
Pam, Exeter, Maine
Thanks Wing and thanks for zooming the camera out even further so we can see the entire nest in all this weather! My donation is forthcoming for these awesome birds and your work. I have prayed like crazy for these birds and all the folks in the path of this wicked storm. The wind is howling in the Raleigh Durham area of NC too, but nothing like you are enduring now. Little Wing and Stormy (optimistic) are miracles, and while I'm anxious, I know these birds will endure this after everything else.
Thanks, Wing, for your comments, especially about the other eagles that are also weathering this storm here in Maine. I've gone out to the shore to watch the surf this morning at high tide ~ very impressive. Thanks for backing the camera up even more so we can keep track of the nest. How amazing that they managed a nest exchange in this weather!! What great parents they are. And by the way ~ is there any idea how old this pair of eagles might be?
Wow, that storm is really howling! I couldn't see any of the birds and I hope they are okay, will keep checking through the day. This has been such an awesome thing to watch, thanks for keeping us updated!
4/16/07 12:18PM
Wing - Thanks for your excellent update...as well as your perseverance in posting on the blog. You Mainiacs are some tough birds. Haha. Can't wait for the storm to subside and to watch our growing family soon. Hang in there all you Maine eagles!
--Liz (W,DC)
monday 4/16/07. I have never seen a nor'easter before, but living in Michigan, have seen huge waves like in Maine and major snow. Where is the father? I must be watching at the wrong times. I see the mother hunkered down for the duration. Are the babies underneath her? I hope all is well with the eagles.
I was watching when the owl flew in and about fell off my chair! The female eagle defended her nest and cried out for her mate. He came quickly and literally stood guard over her and the chicks. It was touching - almost human. I felt they were all safe then.
4/16 - 12:30
When I checked about 15 minutes ago it indeed looked like both eagles were on the nest.
What I saw earlier this morning must have been a nest exchange -- didn't think they would do that in this weather.
Wing, can they hunt and feed during a storm like this?
Maura
Really scary to watch the wind blowing this tree. I hope they are able to stay safe with their chicks. There won't be any hunting today with this wind. I suppose they weather pretty brutal storms in Alaska and this one will pass quickly if we are lucky.
Wing - THANK YOU SO MUCH for keeping us up to date with the eagles. I have barely been able to watch as the camera practically points straight up to the sky and can't even see the eagles. I hope you get your power back soon!!!!
I am home for lunch and just looked in and THERE IS NO ONE ON THE NEST. I am driving myself crazy with worry for them- so upsetting to see them have to go through weather like this. We are praying and praying that they get through the next couple of days.
12:41 EDT
4/16/2007
Highland Lakes, NJ
I know mom will stay put, but I'm worried that the nest will come apart.
thanks for pulling out the camera and posting the update
i agree with Wing
these eagles will be just fine
the parents have provided great protection, they have "leftovers" to feed on and it's just a matter of riding out the storm
i like an earlier post...
"Hang in there Frosty and Windy"
Thanks so much for keeping us informed and thanks for zooming the camera out so we can see the entire nest. I made my donation this morning for these beautiful birds and your work. I have been praying and watching excitedly over these past weeks and I hope all goes well for this family - mother nature hasn't been too nice to them this year. ALl the best to you and them.
4/16....
So comforting, Wing, to hear from you. It is very easy to get very caught up in this as I've had a life long love of these magnificent creatures. And to read that many many others feel as I do.
I learned of this site and the work of you and your colleagues on 4/15 (Just so happened to be my birthday....so it ranks as one of my favorite/most exciting birthdays ever !)
But, what an eye opener to see what our wildlife go through. Sobering. Will the parents be able to feed the eaglets in spite of these strong winds? I can't imagine even an eagle being able to maneuver in these conditions.
Lets take peace in knowing that this, as you pointed out, Wing, is only one of many nesting pairs and this nest has survived many a wild storm.......and the parents continue to rebuild every year. POSITIVE THOUGHTS AND ENERGY FROM US TO THEM ALL.......and my deepest gratitude for this GIFT!
Love the names of the chicks, too........:):):)
Last week, in the midst of all this excitement, I thought I saw two little heads at opposite ends of the nest. One was very visible to the right - to the left & behind a few twigs, I thought I caught a glimpse of another. Glad to read Wing's report that perhaps I did see what I thought I saw. GOOD LUCK Winglet / Mom - Dad.
Wing, I appreciate your keeping us up-to-date on our little eagle family and the other bird families out there. My thoughts and well wishes are with them all today amidst this terrible storm. My heart is also with you as you have to be out in it as well.
I've been unable to focus on my college work today due to worrying about our eagle family and watching them weather this storm. I have empathy for all of the bloggers out there who are also watching and worrying about them.
4/16/07 Monday 12:55 PM
Thanks for the update Wing!! I am a person who believes in the power of prayer, and I for one, am praying that "our" Eagles, and all the Eagles in the line of this storm stay safe thruout the storm. This morning the adult in the nest was all hunkered down, and just a few minutes ago, it looked as if there was an adult in the nest, and one on the branch in front of the nest. I am not sure. It is very difficult to see, but now I think there is only one in the nest. I don't imagine the birds can hunt in this weather, so how long can the eaglet or eaglets go w/o eating? I know the adults can go longer if they have recently eaten before a situation like this stormy weather begins. I have to admire the diligence of these birds in raising their young, and your diligence Wing, in going out of your way to update the blog for all us concerned Eagle Watchers!! Cheryl
10 am PST and no parent in sight...but wow what a storm! It looks like vertical rain. While keeping this family in your prayers, please also pray for the families of the victims at Virginia Tech...
Wow! First time I've seen confirmation of a second chick! Very excited! Hope the "basement" of the nest is not as wet as mine! I'll be watching through this storm as well. The wind is fierce here in South Portland!
In response to the person who wondered why they couldnt use there WMP player. when i downloaded mine i also had to go and download divx codec too in order to view the site.
We have been honored to be able to view these eagles in the wild. Thank you Wing and your staff. Lets just hope the rest of our birds in the State of Maine are doing ok too!!!!
California Kid
What a wild ride our feathered friends are challenged with. When I tuned in this am 7 am Pacific Time I thought I could make out two eagles in the nest as it gyrated in and out of the cameras lenses. Nice to see them riding this out together just as they fought of the intruder a few nights ago. It is so amazing to learn as we go and I thank you and the good Lord for this opportunity. I can only pray this storm passes quickly and our family, as well as others, survives unscathed.
A.D. @ 10: 08 am Pacific Time
Thanks Wing... I feel better when I hear your confidence that if anyone can make it through this, these two experienced stalwart parents will do it... I think we all would like to spare them this extra stress, but growing up and raising their own chicks in this environment has made them strong. It will be wonderful when the storm has passed and we can see both little bobble heads clearly...
HUGS to all the worriers... Sharon in AZ 10:12 a.m. Monday 16 Apr.
what a site to see these brave eagles protecting their babies and then the dad staying in the nest the rest of the night to make sure they were safe. i have never enjoyed watching anything so much and gained so much from it . the wind is howling and the rain is pouring but i know that they will be allright ,, with what they have been through this is just one more thing for them to come through together. thank you all for what you do . 1:12pm est monday
1:11pm (EST): The Weather Channel just mentioned wind gusts up to 81mph in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.
I gasped when I logged on after the camera shot had widened. I just saw a still shot and thought the nest was falling apart. I went immediately to live and saw all was well considering. Is the weather always this way in Maine?
Say your prayers! I am barely able to watch. The wind howling is frightening to me. Pray for the little birds and Mom and Dad.
Hope everyone in Maine is hunkered down. :) Take care everyone!
Krumm
Thanks for the update Wing - I'm amazed the picture's still there today with all this wind! Is it now with your upgraded equipment? Writing this from southern ME coast. What a priviledge to have this site!
I actually cried this afternoon when I saw the awful storm shaking the nest. What awesome engineers those eagles are. We need some of them in Pittsburgh, Pa. I am so sad that the birds have to endure this. Why can't they just start mating the end of April? It would solve all the problems. Thank you for sharing these moments with us. 1:16 PM
It is SO paintful to watch the live cam shot, just knowing what those brave eagle parents are going thru right now. I've tuned in just three times today but only for seconds at a time as it pains me so.
It is a bit comforting to hear from you Wing. Thanks for ALL you and the crew up there do.
dp from Florida
4/16/07 ... 1:19pm
Thanks Wing for your update.
I am very surprised that the camera has stayed up and power has not been lost. I'm so glad, it really does make me feel better to be able to check in on them. Hoping that Lil' Wing Miracle & Stormy are keeping warm & dry under Mom & Dad.
Hang in there...
i am a bit concerned at this point.....not sure if eagle is on the nest.....if anyone out there can verify that they see him/her could you please post it.....thanks....
Wing - Mother Nature is really hitting you people hard on the Northeast and I'm praying for your safety. All of us at the office are having a difficult time taking our eyes off the eagles nest. Seattle is a long way from Maine but we feel as if we are right there with you. Must be a pretty stout tree and nest to hold up through all that wind and rain! By the way, thanks for pulling the camera out so we can see the entire nest. Can't wait to see the other eaglet and I'm sure mom and dad are doing an excellent job of keeping them warm and safe.
Take care out there!
Seattle, WA
does anyone see the eagle in the nest??? i cannot....if anyone out there can could you please post it..thanks
I have been watching the eagles, chicks and the feeding times. I missed the owl. Anyone have the video of that?
This has been wonderful! Thanks!
I too was watching when the owl came after them. Mama defended her nest and called for papa and he showed up right away. I didn't know what it was at the time, but the sound that I heard I knew wasn't from the eagles. When I went to be papa was still standing beside mama. I missed them in the same nest. He was so protective. I guess I really didn't know how much human like feelings these birds could have. It was scary, and touching too. Wish this wind would stop. Praying for them.
Wing,
You are so good to us all! Thank you and Goodluck with the power up there. We're getting gusts of like 50-60 mph down here, which is alot for this area. the backyard birds (sparrows, goldfinches, cardinals etc...) don't seem to mind!
I hope Mom and Dad can catch a break sometime soon. They deserve it!
Sue in MD
2:00 pm EST
1:54 Maine time
Monday...ferocious weather
Thank you for the update, Wing. I'm across the way in Waldo county and the wind isn't quite so wild. We still have power and couldn't wait to read the posts from everyone.
I vote for Little Wing (#1baby) and Winglet Storm for baby #2.
Keep up the information. Seems to settle us all. Thank you...
Lisa in Maine
I pray the eagles can manke it through this! I know I sure am nervous watching them. I'm at work, but am having a hard time actually doing my job because of the eagles! We are having snow here in Western MD today and heavy winds.
I too ask that we all keep the students at Virginia Tech and their families in our prayers as well as the eagles.
Kathy in MD
These beautiful creatures are almost the only creatures that is doing exactly what they were created to do! Beautiful! I am inspired by them. Thanks for the updates! They are amazing and how priveldged we are to witness this!
Thanks to all involved! This is my second year!
Thanks for the up-date, Wing. So glad to hear they are doing okay. First time hearing of a second chick! How wonderful! Hope Dad makes it thru this storm okay...he sounds so sick. Thanks for what you do, Wing..."our" little family has touched many hearts!
2:12pm (EST): I believe we just had a feeding since I noticed the parent moving around a little. They are settled back down into the nest now, keeping the babies dry and warm.
What an awesome thing to witness as these birds survive all that Mother Nature has to offer! Thanks Wing for keeping us posted with your wonderful updates. I also appreciated Judy's video and all the imput form "the viewers" like me. It helps to stay updated when I'm not able to watch. This is my second year watching and I was truely moved by what I witnessed last year. This year has been such a wonderful surprise and now a little scary with this crazy weather. I am fortunate enough to live in Rochester,NY where we have two falcons living on the Kodak tower. There is a camera on them and I am able to "jump" back and forth watching the eagles and the falcons. If anyone is interested in viewing the falcons also, the website is: Rochesterfalconcam.com
I will continue to watch the Eagles and hope for continued success from this pair!
Thank you Wing for taking it to the coffee shop to update us. We worry so about "our" family... it's great to hear words of encouragement. It's amazing that we are witnessing so many firsts... these seem to be a truly amazing pair. There's still power but it looks so terrible. I think I see a white head in there just weathering out the storm. They are incredible parents. Stay warm mama, papa, Little Wing and Jimi.
Wind's really bad, worried about the birds.
We're having High winds here in Mich but at least we have sunshine. Been checking on the nest off and on since 9 am today and as the camera blows past the nest I've been able to see it occupied by a parent.
With the camera pulled back, the rain, and the wind buffeting everything, I can't tell if there's an eagle on the nest--can anyone confirm??
Looks like the camera has moved, I can't not see anything in the nest ! Anyone else, it's 2:25pm.
OMG winds are up to 81 mph. We're praying for this and all the other eagle families up in the NE.
Ursula and Krystyn in Austin TX
Time is 2:55 PM here in Lee, NH. I must say I couldn't sleep, worrying about this eagle family. The winds have calmed down here, and we are having light showers. I hope soon the winds calm down there soon. These pair of Eagles are truley dedicated to their babies, it amazes me to all they have to endure to protect their young. We should all give them the respect and help in whatever way we can. Stay safe, the storm is almost over.
Wow ... those birds have more strength and spirit than me. I doubt even I could withstand the conditions they are living in.
TT
Oh no! I hope the storm isn't that bad. It makes me feel so guilty that I get a warm house, and they get, a nest. I hope the storm passes soon. Those poor little chicks...(I KNEW THERE WERE TWO!)
This is so very hard to watch. Parent is on nest and seems ok but what a jarring situation she (or he) is in. The sound of the wind is scarry. Hope all 4 birds will be ok. I say 4 because on Saturday I know I saw 2 little heads. Good luck brave family.
Does the live cam have a stay on top feature? I was able to get this to work on the old website. Is there a way to view this in windows or some other video player?
I really feel bad for the eagle family today! It's hard to tell if there's an eagle on the nest with the zoomed out view, but I'm sure she's there watching over her little chicks. :) Thanks for the video of the Owl fly by. Goodness, they sure do have their fair share of drama lol.
watching this and hearing the wind howl I wonder what holds the nest together , and then i stopped and thought,well of course i know, God's hand is holding that nest, even the smallest of his cretures are important to him and i know with all our prayers he is there .
I just read that they are going to band the chicks at the Norfolk Botanical Garden tomorrow, 17 April. The chicks are not all that old... won't this upset the parents and risk abandonment???????? Sharon in AZ 12:21 p.m.
4/19/07
3:22 PM
Thanks for the update Wing.
The storm went thru here (Cape Cod)
last night and this morning, boy did it howl out there.Lots of wind damage.
We lost one Osprey nest that I know of.What a rough one for our eagle family. I've been praying for them all weekend! Sent off my donation.
Thank You all for all you do.
Evelyn
Looks to me as if both parents are on the nest. 3.32pm
The Great Horned Owl is the only animal that regularly eats skunks.
The Great Horned Owl will take large prey, even other raptorial birds. It regularly kills and eats other owls, and is an important predator on nestling Ospreys. The reintroduction of Peregrine Falcons has been hampered in some areas by owls killing both adult and nestling falcons.
4-16-07 3:20PM
The Great Horned Owl is a regular victim of harassment from flocks of American Crows. Crows congregate from long distances to mob owls, and may continue yelling at them for hours. The enmity of the crows is well earned, however, as the owl is probably the most important predator on adult crows and nestlings.
The above is a paste/copy from an internet article I found a while ago.
I'm so glad our eagles are okay so far. And I'm hoping the owl will stay far away. But I do often wonder how other eagles and birds in general fare when the going gets rough.
Hope the eagles will weather this terrible storm - I was glad to hear that there might be two chicks - Last year I named the surviving chicks "Mr. Big" and "Fendi" - Fendi always had to fend for him(her)self and was rarly fed directly by the adults - but he made it! - I love these eagles - thank you for the camera and the wonderful blog.
I've been barely able to watch today. Had to jump in and out. The storm is so fierce. I'm at work in Portsmouth (live in Maine) and the sun is almost shining down here. Hang in there Eagle Family. Hopefully, better weather is headed your way.
Glad to see the nest holding together. I lived on MT. Desert Island for 8 years and spent many a stormy day and night out on the ocean with the US Coast Guard. All I can say is "Hold On Guys!"
Thanks for the opportunity to watch these magestic birds.
Wing, Look forward to your updates especially now with this terrible storm. I have a hard time watching because I worry about the birds. I guess we have to assume they know what to do to stay safe. I am in sunny Los Angeles, but I feel like I am in Maine in the middle of the storm when I watch!
Jere
Thanks for the update. When I checked this AM (8:00 CDT) I could not see the nest and the winds looked like hurricane force winds. I was thrilled just now to see the nest and what appears to be the white head of an adult. Our home builders could take lessons from the eagles.
I was fascinated and heartened by the two adults sleeping together in the nest the other night, something I had not seen them do before. They seemed to be supporting each other and taking comfort from each other's presence -- though I know that's attributing human motives and emotions to non-human species and has no scientific basis. Still, it was nice to see. Since I missed the owl intrusion, I wonder if sharing the nest through the night was in response to that perceived threat?
Yesterday morning I was also delighted to confirm with absolute certainty the presence of two chicks in the nest. The adult was feeding one unseen chick, while a fuzzy white head bobbed and swayed, clearly visible, occasionally popping up above the rim of the nest, further to the right in the nest. This was not a stray feather or piece of fluff moving with the wind, but definitely a baby eaglet. My guess is that it is the older of the two, while the yonger was the one being fed.
I too will be holding my breath over the next few days, watching closely while the current storm rages. We do have an emotional investment in this particular eagle family, don't we!
I am so grateful to be able to watch these eagles over an extended time period as the adults raise their young. To see the behavior of this pair in such detail is amazing and wonderful. Thank you to all who help bring this to us, and to you whose work helps to learn about and preserve nature.
4/16 - 4:33
Looks like both eagles are on the nest. Hard to see, but thought I saw two white heads move.
Maura
4/16 4:44 pm EST
Looks like one parent in the nest(hard to tell) and the other just flew in, landed on the nest for a few seconds then took off again. Food drop I hope. Still very windy, but not as bad as earlier in the day.
The blog hasn’t been updated for about 4 hours, so I guess Wing is still in a power failure. Amazed the power is up at the nest site, has been nasty out there today.
What a year to watch this stuff ! Vicious weather, Surprise hatch, Juvenile visit and Owl attacks. Oh my.
Mark, NM
I was so concerned about the storm yesterday and last night I was checking the live feed quite frequently. My husband was getting frustrated with me and said I was "getting obsessed with those eagles!" Can somebody suggest a good counselor (for him of course, not ME!) :).
Julie - Colorado Springs
update 4:45pm
winds have died down a bit
dad just brought home dinner, looked like something big
knew all would be well
4:45 pm EDT One of the parents just flew into the nest with food of some kind--looked to be a fish, but difficult to tell with the camera zoomed back so far. I assume there is some dining going on in the nest, but everything's a blur at the moment (water on the lense?) so can't tell. Wing--a big THANK YOU for the update! It looks like the wind is slowing a bit--that would be wonderful. It's amazing to me that the power is still on and the video cam is still transmitting--that is some tough hardware. Thanks to all for the webcam and the blog!
I think we need 2 cameras... One wide angle to view the whole nest, and one that is zoomed in for a good look at the birds.
I like to see the whole nest as it is now, but I can't see the birds well, and it makes me worry about them more, as I can't assure myself that all is well.
Hadn't seen any movement in the nest for a while. But at 4:55PM (EST) finally saw the adult stand up and stretch her wings a bit, shake them out, and then reposition herself in the nest. Looks like she and the nest are holding up well :)
4:40 pm dst 4/16
Wind has finally slowed down.
I see adult eagle standing & taking care of chick(s).
So glad nest & eagles look OK
Thank you Wing for all your updates. Much appreciated.
Doris in NH
4:44 pm est. Food delivery
by eagle (not sure which one)
Awesome...truly beautiful sight
to see.
Can it be? It is 5 PM EDT and I can hear other things besides the wind. I heard Mom call. Blessed be! I hold my breath and hope the worst is over. Mom moved in the nest and stretched her wings. Oh my heart cannot take this.
How is everyone in Maine? Our hearts and thoughts are with you and all the eagles.
Krumm
2:04 p.m. AZ time... is it possible that the wind is calming down now... I can actually watch the nest without getting seasick!! Sharon
4/16/07 5:01pm EST
Looked at the eaglecam shortly before 4:57pm and the wind seemed to have subsided quite a bit, at least compared to earlier today. At 4:57 an adult flew into the nest. No adult left the nest, so I guess there was no adult in the nest when this one returned (the view of the nest is a bit blurry, so was hard to see if there was an eagle in the nest prior to the adult returning).
Maybe with the winds dying down, the adult in the nest felt it was safe enough to take a break and leave the nest for a minute or two.
Now the tree is barely moving. Phew! Oh, now the wind is picking up again. That eagle sure did know when to take a quick break!
$:47PM
Just now, as a checked in I saw one of the eagles land on the nest and then take off again. He/she must have brought food. Hope so. This is the very first sign of active life I managed to spot
Worried sick last night I got up again at 3:00AM and checked on the nest. The wind was horrendous. I heard an almost unearthly shrieking at one point which mnust have come from the wind. Saw no movement in the nest, but the branches were whipped and lashed like crazy.
Now I know the birds are alive, and doing what they must, and feel compelled to do, so beautifully. Nature is the greatest teacher.
4/16
5:10 PM
Have been watching on and off all day at work. What a bumpy ride. It appears they might get a break from the weather this evening.
Peace,
Chris
Monday 4-11-07 5:17pm est
At approximatly 4:45 I saw one of the eagles bring in food to eat. It was great to see the the eagles are still holding on for dear life.
5:10 Maine time Monday
Wind subsided a bit for right now. Mom on nest (can see her beautiful white head glowing) on guard as always.
I just listened to a weather update and the winds are supposed to remain sustained at 35-45mph over night along the midcoast region. Looks as though it will be a very long night for this group.
Hang in.
Lisa
4/16 4:45 p.m. I couldn't believe my eyes, but one of the eagles just flew in to the nest in the high wind and hovered over the nest with a large prey item, then gently placed it on the nest and flew away. What a pair!! This was big enough for several meals.
It has been a rough day here in Maine to say the least. I will try to get this done before the power goes out in my area. I live about 70 miles from the coast so have been spared the high winds that the coast has received, however, the cable internet just came back on and at last I can check on our eagles.
I can see an eagle on her nest. It is 5:30 P. here. That is certainly a good sign as I just heard on the local news program that Hancock County is one of the hardest hit by the storm. Our cities to the south and coastal area are flooded......thousands of people out of power. I am assuming if I can pull in this site, then they can still put this out to you bloggers. I have not received any late blogging since 1:30 so maybe nothing is working. I will be interested in reading and finding out if anyone has seen food come in.
Yes, I am worried but I have faith all will turn out okay, Of course, I will get back to you all if there is a change or if new info comes this way.
I will be happy again when I hear just one blogger say they saw food brought in.
Keep the faith.
Anna
6:00 eastern time-- Can anyone tell if there is either adult in the nest?
Where is everyone? I see no birds at all. The wind is less powerful. Did everyone do okay?
Hi Wing,
I hope that you are holding up and thank you for zooming out on the cam.
You said I was quite interested to read your comments and watch the video of an owl, most likely a great horned, fly by the nest. I will need to research if great-horned owls have been identified as nest predators of eagles. I was also fascinated to read your comments about both of the adults sitting on the nest over that night. Again, a phenomenon I have not heard of before.
If you compare the owl call from Judy's video to the Hoo-wah call of the Barred Owl, they sound exactly alike.
Try this link:
http://www.owlpages.com/sounds.php
and listen to the Hoo-wah call listed under Barred Owl, Hoot Owl.
I captured what I could of the owl when he flew past the nest, posted here.
http://www.hostingphpbb.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=20019&mforum=tdbc#20019
Thanks again for all that you guys do and provide for us to watch.
Challo
4-16 6:30 EDT. I haven't been able to see the eagles for the past 2 hours. I realize the camera is taking a beating and is now at a different angle than before. Can anyone see anything? Looks like the wind has died down a lot but still very rainy. I am praying for everyone on the coast of Maine and for the birds sitting on nests everywhere. Someone keep us posted on what is happening. Thanks BRI and Wing for the updates. I am sure this couple have seen some bad weather and have come through it ok. I am praying that this is the case now. Patty
Sorry, I panicked. I think I see one of the eagles in the nest. I have to stop watching this so much. I am obsessed.
3:14 p.m. AZ time... mom is on the nest... stood up, shook off, settled back down... all has quieted down, THANK HEAVEN!!!
hey wing,
is there a way you can publish a video of when the owl came calling? i've been watching now for about a month and finally saw a nest exchange the other day! it was magnificent to see the eagle swoop in from the bottom of the screen and land in the nest a few seconds later! can't wait to see what comes next.
great work!
6 pm 4/15/07 est can see one adult in the nest. Winds have died down significantly. The camera is zoomed out to far to be able to tell if its Mom or Dad. To the person who posted there was no adult in the nest during the storm. At least one was there, but was so low in the nest you couldn't really see it. These guys are really amazing. I love watching them and their dedication. Rain on the lense is making it difficult to see. Hope this blows over soon.
It is 6:12 P. I have been watching our eagle on the nest for over half and hour or at least what I thought was the eagle. I never see her move....I was beginning to doubt if it was, indeed, the eagle my eyes were fixed on. Well, praise God, I just saw her get up a bit, look under her and check out the situation, then rolled back and forth and settled back in again. This all is another miracle. Yes, I realize there is wildlife all over Maine in predicaments tonight and I hope for all their safety.
Thank you Wing and BRI for opening up my eyes and letting me see what extent the wildlife have to go through just to exist.
Anna
Certain video shots are mentioned in peoples blogs but I am unable to find any of them. I am also unable to access any of the vids by http://judika.org/meapr14dm.asf. How Do I get to them.
I would like to see some of the past feeds of the feedings that we are seeing (hopefully) 2 heads. The owl fly by and attach, etc.
We just observed the parent stand and stretch wings and adjust position in the nest. Looking fine considering the conditions.
Looks like the winds are calming down some this evening. I did see one of the eagles fly off of the nest about an hour ago.
I hope when we check in the morning that everything has calmed down for everyone in Maine.
6:50pm Is anyone on the nest? The "live" camera lens is all wet & I can't see... I'll check in to find out if anyone's seen the eagles lately??? (Maybe he/she is hunkered down way low in the nest?)
Thanks. Maura in Maine
hi all
it is 5:51 indiana time....i checked and i can not see if mom or dad eagle is on the nest....just worried about them..
7pm Wondering if there's anyone in the nest.. dont see much but rain on the lens of the webcam. Am quite scared for our eagle family...
indiana again...just went back and i saw mom or dad stand up and shake and sit back down....i feel like they are part of this family..i have enjoyed them so...good thoughts
As we are in Montana, we had calls from Family in Vermont and Maine letting us know they were getting "hammered" with a terrible storm. First thing I had to do was check on our Little Wing, Mom and Dad. What a mess! Poor things, but they are designed to put up with a lot. Thanks goodness. Seems, now that the storm is subsiding and I see a wet, white head through the water on the camera. Amazing you didn't lose power. Good thing their "condo" is sturdy and large.
Good wishes to Eagles and everyone in New England too. (Bigfork, MT)
April 16 6:54 PM
Mom? Dad? got up from the nest while there is a lull in the storm, stretching the wings as if to try to dry off. I'm so glad to see it. It's been a worrisome day. I was looking for some kind of life. Hallelujah!
April,16th.,2007 at 6:51pm What a marvelous feat of engineering those eagles have done in order to have their nest stand up through all that wind etc.Are there any authors out there?This is like an on-going suspense novel.It could be titled "The duke and duchess of Maine" Grandma in ontario--with high hopes for the best outcome
Although it is terribly hard to see between the rain drops on the camera lens, it appeared that at approx. 7pm ET one of the parents was feeding young. I feel better if it is so, knowing that chick(s) got a little something in their belly.
Lets hope it continues to let up. Seems to be more rain than early afternoon but maybe less wind. Thank goodness!
dp in Florida
Dad just brought food for his family. He didn't hang around to eat but left immediately. Mom and babies? will sleep with full stomachs tonight, thank goodness.
Here on the coast of Hancock County I have a friend who works with boats and saw a 75 MPH wind gust this morning. Windy and rainy but the temperature is still staying in the upper 30's. To a certain extent the eagles are probably weathering this storm better than a lot of humans who don't know how to function without electricity. At least the eagles know how to depend on instinct ~ something most of us humans aren't very good at!
4:30 PST..the storm is still blowing but it sounds less harsh...at least through my little speakers..but there is much more water on the camera lense now.
I still see no sign of parent Eagles - but someone mentioned Nest Exchange? Has the family moved or did I misread that somehow.
Kate
4/16/07 7:30 PM..... Trying to check on our family, but cannot see anyone on the nest! I'm hoping it's just a bad angle due to the high winds, but I am very worried that all may not be well. Has anyone seen either parent lately? I will be soooooo glad when this storm is over!
I checked the site at 8:02 P.M. (Maine time) and saw both Bald Eagles on the nest. Heard one chick peep. I was glad to see both parents there with the storm going. Pray they can ALL make it thru tonight and the rest of the storm to raise their family.
4/16
8:20 PM Eastern Time.
The cam isn't clear due to the weather. It's tough not knowing if the eaglets rode out the storm ok under the shelter of their parents. If nothing else, at least the wind appears to be significantly less severe. I hardly can wait until tomorrow to check the cam and read the comments of fellow bloggers. It has been a very long 24 hours.
Forecast radar for Maine shows the storm finally dying out. Thank God.
Chris
Thank you so much for the update, makes me feel more confident our eagle family will make it through. Our thoughts go out to the other 400 nests.
I checked in this morning to see an eagle, I presume mother, all hunkered down. Without power 6 hours and now able to check in. Can't see much with nest zoomed out and rain on camera but so glad to see the nest is OK. I thought I saw an eagle on a branch above nest, saw black and white, but not sure. This was about 8:20 p.m. or so. I don't see it now, turned off live pic to read blogs. It is now 8:36 p.m.
I too thought the owl was a great horned from the call.
Karen in Denmark
We had power outages here, was not able to watch today, but on Sat. I saw mama leave the nest & return with a fish. some for the chick, some for her~~fascinating! later I saw both parents on the nest, too cool!
thanks so much for bringing this to so many!!
I am fascinated with your eaglecam! Thanks so much for bringing it to us. I teach second graders, and they are very excited about the chicks, especially since they were thought not to have survived. I am teaching my students to observe and take notes. I find myself so engrossed that I have to force myself away! Thanks to you and the eagles for educating us all.
We had power outages here, was not able to watch today, but on Sat. I saw mama leave the nest & return with a fish. some for the chick, some for her~~fascinating! later I saw both parents on the nest, too cool!
thanks so much for bringing this to so many!!
Watchin these birds makes you proud to be American!!! They have such heart and courage. I hope it goes as good this year as it did last year. It is amazing what parents will do for their young!!! I also find it amazing these bird are showing us that things can go not so perfect but still come out in the long run!!! AMAZING will is all I can say about these birds.
Thank you for all the updates! The ferocity of the storm is astounding! It was like being hit on the face really hard (and thankfully I am just imagining what that might be like) when I first checked up on the nest today. I hope those of you who are directly affected by the storm are safe. As to our beloved eagle family (and the 100's of other eagle families that are out there struggling to stay alive in this storm), I think this will be a sleepless night for some of us ... I can see Mom's white head (it must be her) in the darkness, so I know she is sitting tight protecting her little Miracle (maybe two?) from the raging storm. And where has poor Dad found shelter, who has needed an appointment with an orthopeadic surgeon because of his injured foot since the last stupid storm?
Thank you so much for keeping us updated. It's been harrowing with the Nor'easter. I checked in on the eagles the night the owl came thru, just in time to see Mom eagle wake up and take notice of an approaching creature. Her eye became visible and she seemed ultra alert. The unseen owl hooted a number of times. Suddenly Papa eagle appeared on the nest and hovered protectively near the female. I observed them till they relaxed and dozed off. Am glad to know what the invader was, as I could not figure it out till reading the blog tonight. It's wonderful to see the eagles ride out this storm; they have fared better than many of us landbound, half drowned humans!
4/16/2007 10:07 CST
The Owl:
Wing, I saw the owl attack happen but did not notice the owl cries until I studied Judy's clip. As we have many owls in our neighboorhood, I recognized the call as that of a screech owl whinnying, not of a Great Horned hooting. This very much surprised me, as the screech owl is about 1/3 - 1/4 the size of an eagle; but if you study the clip frame by frame, you will see that the owl is indeed much smaller than the eagles. I did a little research and found this quote from Project Wildlife:
"Screech owls routinely attack, kill and eat birds larger than they are and they will eat anything they can kill."
While the raindrops are obscuring the camera lens tonight, it is still very comforting to see the definite glint of Mom's or Dad's eyes. It's good to know that they are sitting tight.
Suzanne
It is 11:15 Michigan time, 4-16-07. The wind stopped blowing for a few secondss and I saw a head pop up, but only one. Kind of like the eagle was just checking things out. He/she only got about 15-20 seconds of reprieve before the wind started up again. Judy, do you have your own eagle cam too. Your pics etc are great. Keep up the good work. My friends at the hospital where I work are all cheeing on the eagle family.
GO EAGLE FAMILY!!!!!!
4/16
11:15 PM Eastern Time
Can't be sure, but believe there is at least one Eagle on the nest. Precip on the cam lense continues to partially obsure the view. Still breezy but certainly nothing like this time last evening.
On radar, storm has significantly broken apart but unfortunately there is a new batch of precipatation forming over the Atlantic heading westward toward the Maine coast. At this point, it appears to be only rain not "severe" weather.
Eager to read what everyone else has observed since early this afternoon. Hopefully, the power will be restored throughout Maine tomorrow and the blog updated.
Terrible day in Virgina today. I'm sure everyones prayers are with those effected as they are with our eagles.
Peace,
Chris
How do you all capture videos of the eagles. Is it some special equipment on your computer? Or do all computers have that ability?
4/17 Tuesday
12:36 AM
The Eagle family is once again being buffeted with stronger winds. The renewed precipatation developing over the Atlantic seems to be the culprit. I cannot be sure but I believe I see at least one eagle in the nest. Hoping that daybreak brings us evidence of Mom, Dad and Eaglets alive and well.
Chris
4-16-07 10:27 pm Pacific Time
California Kid
Checking the nest after a rather storm tossed day I could see the shining eyes of both mom and dad in the nest together. They seem to have been together ever since the owl attack of the other night. Wind appears to be from a different direction but still howling and causing a rough ride for our eagle family. They are in my prayers as are all in this storm.
A.D.
5:24est something flew into nest with mom pray it was dad ,, wind is howling tree rocking, hold on , it will soon be over i pray. GOD i know you are busy but if you will please hold on to that nest.tuesday morning,barbara
04/17/07
5:32AM
The cam is still working, the wind is blowing. I can't tell at this time if eagles and nest are in the frame.
Looks like another bad day.
6:15 a.m. April 17
Comfort to see mama? in nest, can't tell with it pulled out. She is moving head down and around, moving nest material?, feeding maybe, hopefully. Looks like another rough day, when will this end---soon I hope.
Karen in Denmark
Oh my, I can't stand to watch.... but who can leave....It is an awsome site to see these parents doing a great job of protecting their babies. I am up North in Aroostook County and we are getting winds and lots of snow and some sleet at times. There are several eagles up this way and hopefully they are nesting well through this. 4/17/07 6:40
6:55am EDT 4/17 - just did a quick check of live, and parent still in nest! Glad they didn't all blow away. It got pretty fierce here in cape elizabeth yesterday.
04/17 @ 07:42
Both Ms. & Mr. Mom on the nest.
JAM in IL
4/17/07 at about 7:56 a.m. EST finally saw a nest exchange but no feeding seen. I hope these chicks make it. It is very hard to watch no feedings and storms this family has had to battle, but I cannot turn away.
Wildlife lover in Central New York
4/17/07 7:55 am dst
one eagle flew in & landed on edge of the nest, Looked like it had a hard time hanging on then 2nd eagle flew in, first eagle took off, the wind was sure pushing it around. 2nd eagle soon layed down.
It looks still very windy.
I am in NH & the weather & wind has calmed down. I am hoping this will come soon to Maine.
Poor little ones & parents.
So nerve wracking to watch & listen to the action of the weather in Maine.
My prayers are with all the animals who are tollerating this storm.
D. in NH
Exchange in the nest at 7:54 A. I did not see food brought in but with the rain on the camera, it is hard to tell for sure.
They have endured the worst of nights, yet they carry on. The winds have been horrendous and still are raging.
It will be a long day for them, but with some food, I believe, they will be fine.
Quite a lot of flapping of the winds during the exchange, showing just how powerful the wind is.
I am hopeful. Hang tight!
Anna
Good morning all!! I am hoping that since there is an update on the blog that means you got your power back, Wing!!! Hope so.
Every time I looked in yesterday, I could NOT see any eagles on the nest. I was practically in tears this morning when I saw that familiar white head!!! He/she must have been totally hunkered down. I know how worried we all must have been without hearing an update and feeling almost "cut off" from each other all day yesterday.
Wing, thank you for everything YOU are going through and still thinking of US and trying to keep us informed in this very difficult weather pattern. Hope everyone has a great day!!
8:14 EDT
4/17
Highland Lakes, NJ
8:19am EDT and the winds copntinue to be pretty entertaining here on the coast. As I was getting ready for work about 6:00am we had a gust that really shook my house nad felt as strong as, if not stronger than, yesterday's winds. Right now the National Weather Service has continued the high wind warnings until 1pm today. The good news is that the rain is not as heavy. We still have flood warnings and beach erosion warnings up, but that won't be bothering the eagles!! If people are interested in seeing how Maine has fared during this storm, there are some video clips and slide shows on WLBZ2.com.
Video of amazing nest exchange April 17 around 7:55 a.m.
http://judykb.org/meapr17800amne.asf
or at YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48hZxcCeGCw
To Anonymous with the time of 6:26 who asked how to get the clips people were sending in. I have to copy the link from the post then go to my internet server and paste it and open it that way. My server comes up saying "can't be found" but then if you click on the link that is showing it will open up. Hope this helps you. I had to go back after I finally figured it out so I could view all the ones I missed. I know most of you are more adapt at the internet than I am but I eventually figure it out. Thanks all of you for getting these to us. I don't know how you do it but am glad you have it figured out. Thanks again for BRI and Wing and all the updates. Patty
Honestly ... don't know what's worse .. watching or not watching. Both seem to cause worry and concern! Our eagles seem to be literally "hanging in there". I'm so proud of their actions during this tumultuous storm.
You folks in Maine have my respect for tenacity too! I moved to the Mason Dixie Line because I wasn't able to live with that kind of weather!!!
Lil Wing and Storm (if that's their names) will certainly have some experience with proper weather behavior for future reference. I doubt you could find 2 better parents all things considered.
TT
To all at BRI...one more night of strength for the eagle family pulled them through. Although it's still pretty wild there I believe it has died down somewhat. I'm not sure about the sound quailty on the cam, but the wind just seems less. Can see one beautiful head snuggled in and can only hope that things are well. Good luck with whatever work needs to be done today (I thought there was something going on from a previous blog) and will check in all day to make sure I don't miss anything.
These are one determined pair of parents!! They are not going to let anything harm their chicks not even mother nature! What a thrill this is, I watched last year couldn't believe my eyes, the dedication the parents have for one another and their offspring.I know this year's eaglets will be fine too.One of the parents is hunkered down in the nest all you can see is their head.Still pretty windy too.We should name the chicks "Windy" & "Wing" What do all of you think? Thank you Wing, for your dedication to us but also to the Eagles!!
Tues.4/17 Ariz. 6:15 am
Two eagles! One on the nest and one doing a balancing act on the Y branch! Amazing! I turned the volulme way down as I don't like the wind noise. I'm glad I can do that unlike all of you living through this storm. Eagle on the nest has hed up looking around and the other flew off.
Great to see the pair sitting on the branch together above the nest with the sun rise reflecting on the water. SO GLAD THEY ARE BACK!!!
Around 6 AM this morning both eagles were present at the nest, taking turns adjusting sticks on the perimeter of the nest. One still present at 8 AM.
A positive sign?
Russ
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