After being so excited about the young couple at the West End, the ravens have taken the egg when it was left alone. This is youth. They will learn. Both of them possibly wondered what to do with that egg – intuition doesn’t always come easy.
On top of this, Chase and Cholyn’s egg at Two Harbours has been pierced and broken.
On top of all of this saddness in the Channel Islands, Audacity isn’t giving up and has laid another egg.
My goodness, Audacity must be worn out. It takes a lot out of an eagle to produce this many eggs.
I want to thank Penny Albright for keeping us informed about some incredible osprey nests while she has been on vacation. It has been a real treat to see these families through her eyes!
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. I am not hopeful for the West End, Two Harbours, or Sauces this year. I want to be wrong!
Take care. See you soon. Ospreys landing in the UK and flying home. Lots to become excited about soon.
Thank you to SK Hideaways, Penny Albright and the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to witness the lives, good and bad, of our beloved raptors.
Just one of those quick postings. My inbox was filled with surprise, saddness, and shock when the very young female at the West End nest laid her very first egg on Sunday.
Everyone misses Thunder and Akecheta, whether it was at the old nest with Dr Sharpe rescuing eaglets or at the new one. I have not added them to the Memorial Wall and won’t because I believe they are out there somewhere. Akecheta was smart to just give up the territory, but we also lost Haku. Where is she? It is a challenging location with many intruders. Let’s wish this very young couple a long, happy, and successful breeding life.
White-Tail Eagle Milda laid her second egg on Sunday. Congratulations Milda and Zorro.
Rosie has not returned to Richmond as of today. His nest on the Whirley Crane would be an envy to any osprey! He has been working heard preparing for Rosie to return but she is very late and I am concerned.
My eyes are on Manton Bay and Loch of the Lowes today.
If you missed it, Quinn has fledged from the Captiva nest. So R9 and R10 along with E26 have taken to the skies.
The owl returned to the Winter Park nest, but Wink was sleeping by Peanut and raised up. As far as I am aware, nothing happened. Smart Mum. She knows about owls.
Thank you for being with us for this quick look at the egg laying in the Channell Islands West End nest. Take care. We will be back on Friday.
Thank you to SK Hideaways and the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to check on our favourite bird families.
If you are worried about Brutus, the eldest eaglet from the Winter Park Bald Eagle nest in Florida, don’t. Brutus is in good hands with the Audubon Centre for Birds of Prey! Our friend, Lisa, is part of that rehabilitation community and if Lisa has anything to do with Brutus – he will learn how to be an eaglet and get back into the wild. She is awsome.
I want to give a shout-out to the viewers who spotted the Owl knocking Brutus out of the nest, and to the quick reactions by Windows to Wildlife and the Audubon Centre for Birds of Prey. Brutus was ‘lightly injured’. Updates promised, but Brutus will not be going back to the nest, as it could force Peanut to fledge way too early. Besides, Peanut deserves some time on that nest alone, building up their body and wings for flying. That nest isn’t as crowded anymore, but everyone is alright.
The real story right now is that the young couple that have taken to Thunder and Akecheta’s West End nest in the Channel Islands have their first egg. I almost dropped by drawers! I think she is a first time Mum. I hope they have a long and successful life without intruders – we need some peace at this nest.
Geemeff did her second video of the year, and it was the arrival of Blue 25 (10) at the Manton Bay nest. Oh, let’s hope Maya arrives before Blue 33 because Blue 25 always has her eyes set on Blue 33. If Maya were not to return, would Blue 33 accept Blue 25 as a mate? If he arrives, everything is up in the air right now! Perhaps literally. https://youtu.be/oLvBrnZaEzA?
Thank you so much for being with me. Oh, things are happening so quickly. Quinn fledged! Peanut is missing Brutus while Wink is keeping her youngest close at hand. Ospreys are flying over water and land to get home. I wonder who will arrive Monday.
Take care!
Thank you to Geemeff for their video, to Window to Wildlife for their quick response and caring, and to the owners of the streaming cams so that we can watch these amazing birds and their lives.
To those who celebrate the achievements of women – Happy International Women’s Day!
It has been quite the day. But first up, something good. The threesome at the Moorings Park Osprey platform of Harry and Sally. Seriously, well fed, healthy, happy little tikes.
I wish all good things came in threes!
We have had quite the weekend. It began with the car needing new brakes and a routine oil change, etc., and with two tyres repaired because they had picked up debris from a nearby house fire. Then Toby got sick. Last, my twenty-year old washing machine – which does not owe me a penny – decided it was time to call it a day. I am really hoping that it stops here!
I cannot tell you if Toby is better. Thank you to everyone for your notes and well wishes – they literally came from around the world. It warmed my heart. I hope to find out more about what is going on in the next couple of days. I can tell you that he has been very hungry and has eaten, is drinking water, and ran outside to chase a squirrel, barking his head off in the afternoon.
Toby is watching the Crufts 2026 Dog Show from Birmingham hoping that the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel that won the ‘toy’ group will win overall.
Toby would never make the ‘toy’ group. Just look at those paws. He clocks in at a mighty 25 lbs. just like the breeder said he would. So much for the 2XL little sweatshirt. It barely makes it to his waist!!!!!!!!
While I am dealing with one thing, my neighbour, who has two Cavaliers – a tri-colour like Toby and a Blenheim (rust and white), is having a very difficult time. The little Blenheim (both girls are tiny beside Toby) has a heart condition. My heart breaks when I see my friend walking her adorable girls in their cute outfits knowing she is frightened about what is happening.
All of this kept me from the bird cams today. I clean when I worry so the laundry room is properly ready for the arrival of the new machines. They should live longer than I will.
But, let’s check a few. Moorings Park is doing fantastic. Cholyn and Chase have a second egg and that is good news.
Most osprey cams are streaming, including those in Germany. Cranes and storks are arriving early. It saddens me to think that many who are migrating from Africa will have to pass through war zones to get to their nests in the north.
Besides flying through Lebanon, we also have those birds flying through Ukraine.
The wind was so strong at Big Bear on Saturday that Jackie was tossed about like she was a feather on the nest. Very scary.
Stella and Ira have three eggs at the US Steel nest! Wings of Whimsy recorded the event: https://youtu.be/xdcEOajcANI?
Nest preparations continue to go well for Red-tail Hawks Big Red and Arthur on the Cornell Campus.
SK Hideaways Videos Week of 1 March 2026
Channel Island California Eagles Livestreamed nests: ~ Fraser Point ~ Santa Cruz Island ~ Cruz & Andor ~ Sauces Canyon ~ Santa Cruz Island ~ Audacity & Jak ~ Two Harbors ~ Catalina Island ~ Cholyn & Chase ~ West End ~ Catalina Island ~Residents in flux
Cholyn & Chase Chortle About Nest Changes, Meet-ups & Alerts (2026 Mar 4) From dawn till dusk and even through the night, Cholyn and Chase chortle, snortle, and murmur to each other about whatever is happening in the moment. Their bond is remarkable to behold. Video: https://youtu.be/LoHana6raBc
Long Labor for Cholyn’s 3rd Egg ~ First Peek Shows Breakage (2026 Mar 2) In 23 nesting seasons, this is the first time that Cholyn has laid three eggs. Her labor was atypical and difficult, so it wasn’t completely surprising to see that the third egg was cracked when first revealed. The good news is that Cholyn and Chase are healthy, and that they have two strong eggs. Wishing them success and hoping to see these eggs turn into bundles of fluff. Video: https://youtu.be/i60SnPkL8io
Female & Lee All-Day Courtship ~ Sleepover, Beakies, Mating Attempt (2026 Mar 3) The female, F, and Lee, the 4-year-old sub-adult eagle from the Seal Rocks nest exhibited courtship behaviors throughout the day. We can only guess what they were up to while the cameras were down, but today looked promising. Video: https://youtu.be/zjFbfJxk3w8 Lee/D29 & Female Seem to Like Each Other ~ As the West End Turns (2026 Mar 2) When the West End cameras came on after being down for 2 weeks, we were met with a new male. Seems the female remains the same ~ this is the one that arrived after Haku and Akecheta left. The male is Lee/D29, a 2022 hatch from the Seal Rocks nest, also on Catalina Island. The couple soared and perched together for much of the morning. What will happen next? Only the eagles know for sure. Video: https://youtu.be/mlBQgJTi19E
Dad Brings *Very* Fresh Fish ~ JBS24 Gets Fed and Self Feeds (2026 Mar 5) JBS24 is 5-1/2 weeks old and is progressing right on schedule. Here’s what occurs in the fifth week, courtesy of Loudon Wildlife Conservancy: ~ Begins playing with sticks ~ Is capable of fully standing ~ Is aware of its surroundings, in and outside the nest ~ Begins tracking objects and birds outside the nest ~ The tarsi (the feet or lowest part of the legs) are full size, and the foot pad is nearly full size ~ Imprinting is nearly complete
JBS24 is doing a little self-feeding in addition to the above milestones. Mom and Dad spend quite a lot of time with their only eaglet. This family is a joy to observe. Video: https://youtu.be/zI5sDnFeuHo
Thank you, SK Hideaways!!!!!!!!! You bring the nests to life for us.
Ellie and Harvey at Farmer Derek’s Bald Eagle nest should have their second hatch by tomorrow.
I wonder what is going to happen at the Glaslyn nest this season. Will Aran return and prevail as the male? Will Teifi return and take over the nest? Will Elen return? We wait.
The female at Duke Farms continues, at times, to incubate the remaining unviable egg. The little one is a cutie.
Winter Park eaglets had some prey today. There has been some concern about the lack of prey coming to the nest as of late.
Oh, remember how we worried about ‘Tiny Tim’? – not so tiny anymore! Can you tell Wink from Atlas now?
At Dade County, R9, the oldest, still has to fledge. Females often take longer than males.
Eve and Kai perch along the rim of the NE Florida nest of their parents, Beau and Gabby. Eve is 68 days old today and Kai is 67. Fledge in a week?
Quinn (Captiva nest of Connie and Clive) is gorgeous and if you look carefully, all of these eaglets are so close in age. They spend their days looking out to the world they will soon conquer through flight.
There is at least one tiny osplet at the Pink Shell nest in Florida. Let’s hope that this nest is successful this year.
You will learn something you never thought you needed to know!
The funds to save the land near Jackie and Shadow’s nest were nearly 1 million dollars when I last checked. Others are seeking donations: the Severna Ospreys need batteries for their camera so they can stream.
Thank you so much for being with us today. We hope that your weekend was much better than ours. That said, we are looking forward to an ‘uneventful’ week. We have started doing nothing on Thursdays. Toby gets to go for his walk with Ellen, and I stay in my PJs. A writer of all things Parisian recommended some lovely Pima cotton pyjamas made in South Carolina, and I do love them. The phone is ignored for most of the day. No one is invited over or invited in if they show up. We watch movies, read books to Toby and The Girls and generally use Thursday as a day to recharge our so-called batteries. If you are feeling overwhelmed, however slight the feeling, I highly recommend a ‘day off’. And I do mean a day off!!!!!
We look forward to seeing you again soon – Friday, if not sooner.
Thank you to SK Hideaways for their wonderful videos that add much to my post. I would also like to thank the owners of the streaming cams where I took my screen captures and who allow us to watch the lives of our favourite birds.
It’s March 5 and it is Toby’s birthday! Here he is when he was first able to climb the cat tree after arriving when he was a very young 8 week old.
As I tell many people, I would not have survived the past year without Toby and The Girls. We plan to have his party when his goodies arrive, which I hope is today. Deliveries in Canada have been problematic due to severe storms in each area.
The snow is gently falling this morning, and the thirty-three European Starlings – yes, counted – have arrived for breakfast. They will return around 1430 this afternoon for their late meal. What are they eating? Cat and dog kibble!
Sally and Harry now have two of the sweetest little osplets. These two do not know how lucky they are to have such amazing parents.
Good news coming out of the UK. Lead ammunition to be banned from 2029. Of course I ask myself, why not 2027? Surely they can get it off the shelves by then.
There is so much confusion going on at the Dade County nest. These are the facts. I want you to read this carefully. Banding and the correct documentation are crucial. It cannot be haphazard.
R9 hatched on 12/20/25, and R10 hatched on 12/22/25. They were banded on 1/31/26 at 42 and 40 days of age. During banding, samples were taken to determine their genders, and it was revealed that they are both male. The intention was to band R9 with the #6/9 band, and band R10 with the #7/0 band. However, on banding day the eaglets were mixed up, and R9 was given the 7/0 band, R10 was given the 6/9 band. There are several expert viewers who have watched this nest most of the day every day, and they were always able to identify which eaglet was which, including on banding day, and since banding day. When the cams resumed after banding, every one of these viewer-experts knew right away that the bands had been reversed. On banding day, we had hoped that the banders would have been able to tell the eaglets apart by the distinct differences in their tails, and by the few fluffy white feathers that R10 still had on his neck on that day. The eaglets’ personalities regarding the dominant and submissive sibling were the same as they had always been… R9 dominant, R10 submissive, (although R10 has recently become more aggressive since R9 branched). The authorities refused to acknowledge the opinions of these expert viewers, who individually have probably watched these eagles more than the admin/mods combined.
No one ever said that the eaglets’ band numbers needed to be sequential. But, the admin apparently wanted their names to match his banding documentation. The admin mandated that chatters call the eaglets by the wrong names. Chatters are not permitted to call the eaglets by their real names, we are supposed to pretend that each eaglet is the other one now, lol. One of the long-time primary chatters, ‘mary_mcg’, quit the chat a few weeks ago because she refused to call the eaglets by the wrong names. Experienced chatters have resorted to simply calling the eaglets by their band numbers, rather than calling them the wrong names. More recently, even the admin and the mods have been calling the eaglets by their band numbers rather than a name! The result has been total confusion on the chat as newer chatters and those that haven’t been on the chat for a while drop by. The band numbers are confusing to them, and they ask which eaglet is which… but experienced chatters are not permitted to respond truthfully.
HERE ARE THE FACTS: R9 (band 70) branched on 2/27 at 69 days of age. R9 unintentionally fledged on 3/4 at 74 days of age. Ground observers stated that R9 is doing fine, was seen flying well, and then he perched in a tree. A little later on 3/4, R10 (band 69) branched for the first time, at 72 days of age. You can trust me on this. I put together a video showing R9 branching, R9’s fludge/fledge, and R10 branching. Video: https://youtu.be/BotBY9tD4U0?
I am working on a post that focuses solely on the Kakapo. Like the California Condors, they are so endangered and they breed only every four years so there is great excitement in New Zealand as this year’s eggs hatch into fluffy little flightless parrots.
Geemeff sends us another warning about using balloons – sorry, Toby. There will never be balloons used in any party at our house!
Big Red and Arthur continue to work on their nest.
Arrivals in parts of the US of ospreys are three weeks ahead of schedule. Keep your eyes to the sky.
My inbox has been full of readers upset by the seemingly contradictory information coming out of Fort Myers, Florida, regarding the death of F23. She was much loved. It took a while, but after Harriet by F23 won our hearts for being such a wonderful Mum. Now there is a petition for transparency in F23’s death. It is sponsored by Barb Henry. No money required. https://c.org/NvjPRCRWkb
At the NE Florida nest of Beau and Gabby, first hatch Kai has branched and guess what, so did Eve. Today is the first day that they have perched on the branches outside the nest, however.
Just a taste of some of the news coming out of our nests.
Thank you so much for being with us. Please take care! See you soon.
Thank you to the individuals who created videos and posted information on FB, to Raptor Persecution UK for staying on top of the persecution of our feathered friends in that country, and to the owners of the streaming cams where I took my screen captures.
First, some good news, the eldest fledged at the Dade County Bald Eagle nest of Ron and Rose today.
Ospreys are arriving! Word has come from Viki that one osprey has landed in Indian Creek; they do not normally arrive until after St Patrick’s Day. The couple are at the Danville nest, and Heidi sends word that ospreys are arriving in Colonial Beach.
The IWS nest challenge is underway. Many of us have received merchandise and I am happy to say that at least two of us have been asked to name an eaglet.
Funds continue to come in to purchase the land known as Moon Camp near Jackie and Shadow’s nest to keep it out of the hands of developers. In a blink of an eye, or so it seems, nearly $750,000 of the 10 million needed has been raised. Congratulations to everyone.
I remain saddened by the death of F23 and the continuing controversy over the COD. In the end, it doesn’t matter if someone shot her because it is illegal. If she died because of a road accident and somehow managed to get herself into a garden known to her, then that is a different story. It is possible for eagles to have an injury and fly and later die as we have seen many who fall, hit their head, and die of a concussion later. I do not have enough information to comment other than it is simply a sad day for M15, E26 and all who loved this young mother.
I have lots of news to share but I am simply worn out. We will be celebrating Toby’s first birthday hopefully this week – it is tomorrow. Thankfully he can’t read a calendar. I found a photo of him just after he had arrived and managed to climb the cat tree for the first time.
His birthday wish is a box of Kleenex all to himself with no interference. I don’t think so.
Thank you for being with us today. Please take care. I hope to be back at the weekend or Monday.
Thank you to the owners of the streaming cams and those who post information on FB. My blog would not be the same without your generous sharing.
Toby and I were woken up by the phone pinging and pinging around 2330 Saturday night. It wouldn’t stop. What was going on? Turns out the two-story woodframe house at the corner, home to our neighbour Jim Russell for 27 years, was on fire. It went up in flames so quickly that the fire and police personnel could not get into the structure. We still do not know if our neighbour was in the house at the time. Jim was a brilliant eccentric. He had studied math at Cornell and came to Canada in the late 1960s, as I recall. Paramedics and fire crew are still there as little blazes continue to flare up. I am tired. Toby is tired. We were up til 0300 worrying if Jim was in the house and remembering, with great sadness, our neighbours, Bert and Joanne, who died in a house fire across the street in 2011. They were our dear friends. We bought our house form them and Don helped Bert when Joanne was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Memories came in like a tsunami.
I know you will understand when I say that this posting will be short.
There have been a lot of rumours about the Bald Eagle nests this season, with the latest one being that Shadow had disappeared. Shadow is fine. It was confirmed that he was on the eggs last evening, even though the posting said he was MIA. Please check the cameras and exercise caution – there are too many ‘alternative facts’ floating around that cause worry and anxiety.
Thank you SK Hideaways for sending me your videos!
SK Hideaways Videos Week of 22 February 2026
Channel Island California Eagles Livestreamed nests: ~ Fraser Point ~ Santa Cruz Island ~ Cruz & Andor ~ Sauces Canyon ~ Santa Cruz Island ~ Audacity & Jak ~ Two Harbors ~ Catalina Island ~ Cholyn & Chase ~ West End ~ Catalina Island ~Residents in flux
Fraser Point ~ Cruz & Andor Courtesy Institute for Wildlife Studies | explore.org | Fraser Point Eagles Cam Ops Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OY4V_AppZ6s Cruz Lays 3rd Egg ~ No Muss, No Fuss Once Again (2026 Feb 26) Cruz rose at 00:42 and laid her third egg at 00:43:28 ~ she wanted to get back to sleep. And sleep she did until she gave us a split-second peek of all three eggs at 06:58. Wishing Princess Cruz and Andor success with this full clutch. Video: https://youtu.be/t4C95kIBhbs
Princess Cruz Lays 2nd Egg ~ Quick & Easy (2026 Feb 22) A very easy labor for Cruz as she laid her second egg. Congratulations, Cruz & Andor! Video: https://youtu.be/AurPv3UFB1M
Two Harbors ~ Cholyn & Chase Courtesy Institute for Wildlife Studies | explore.org Overlook Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yx7RKxpyzQ Eagle Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5T2eHM8tcI Cholyn Does Bedtime Egg Roll ~ Chortles Wispy Lullaby (2026 Feb 27) After a day of textbook nest changeovers, Chase retired to his night perch and Cholyn settled in for overnight incubation. After she carefully rolled the two precious eggs, she called out in her unique wispy chortle. Because we’re hopelessly sentimental, we like to think that lovely music was a bedtime lullaby. Whatever it was, it was glorious. Cholyn Lays Egg #2 Early and Quickly Cholyn was a few hours earlier than expected and laid egg #2 quickly and easily. Congratulations Cholyn & Chase! (2026 Feb 26) Video: https://youtu.be/5Qnqo5nnXcg 28-Year-Old Cholyn and Chase Welcome 1st Egg of the Season🎉(2026 Feb 24) In their 23rd season together, 28-year-old Cholyn and Chase welcomed their first egg. Cholyn fooled fans for a few nights before laying this first egg, but, of course, she had her own schedule. Congratulations! Video: https://youtu.be/q3g9NCeN04E
FOBBVCAM Eagles ~ Big Bear Valley, CA ~ Jackie & Shadow Courtesy FOBBVCAM | Friends of Big Bear Valley Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE Wide View Cam (Cam 2): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41eq4VzCYc4 Live Recap & Observations https://bit.ly/3Md8TSz Shadow Snortles to Jackie’s Mating Call ~ Obliges Then Brings Fish (2026 Feb 28) When Jackie called Shadow to the Cactus Snag, he was quick to respond. Turns out it was a mating call. Having taken care of business, Jackie returned to the nest to await her feesh brunch, which Shadow also provided. Together they are a power couple ~ super partners, providers, and parents. Video: https://youtu.be/aoE-OV3sUeE
Jackie Delivers Egg #2 of Second Clutch ~ Congrats Jackie & Shadow! (2026 Feb 27)Jackie laid egg #2 of her and Shadow’s second clutch in the early evening. The 4-minute labor brought Jackie’s signature tea kettle sounds and another perfect egg. All good wishes to Jackie and Shadow for success with this second clutch. Video: https://youtu.be/FKRbz02gZG0
Jackie Lays Egg #1 of Second Clutch ~ Shadow Checks on Jackie, Meets Egg 🥰(2026 Feb 24) Jackie and Shadow welcomed the first egg of their second clutch. Wishing them a successful outcome. Video: https://youtu.be/2xmOylatUyg
JBS24 is in full Clown Feet and thriving (2026 Feb 26) At 4-1/2 weeks, JBS24 is shedding some of that natal down, sprouting pin feathers, and sporting some rather impressive clown feet. Great to see this little one doing well and progressing as expected. Video: https://youtu.be/wDCEsLT-XTU
San Jose CH Falcons ~ San Jose, CA ~ Hartley and Monty Hartley & Monty Display Every Courtship Behavior Known to Falcons (2026 Feb 22) Hartley and Monty are very focused on their upcoming nesting season. They had conversations, mated (twice), and pair bonded in the nest box. Monty provided the piece de resistance when he delivered a food gift, which Hartley happily tugged away from him and flew off. We’ll be looking for eggs in the very near future! Video: https://youtu.be/LwwsKn4-vS4 Courtesy San Jose City Hall Peregrine Falcon Cam Ledge Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pp9TisLmLU
At the Winter Park Florida Bald Eagle nest, Peanut (aka Tiny Tim) is anything but tiny. Looks like a ravenous female to me that second hatch that survived some pretty challenging bonking early on. Peanut really took lessons and was doing a grand job of self-feeding on Saturday.
At the Johnson City nest, Baiba caught Boone feeding his little one JC26 for the first time. https://youtu.be/BYRwO0l-qfE?
From all of us – we wish you a great end to the weekend and a wonderful week. I will be back with you on Friday.
Thank you so much to SK Hideaways for sharing their video list, to the owners of the streaming cams where I took my screen captures – thank you for allowing us into the lives of these amazing birds.
It is actually Sunday evening when I am sending this out. Ellen is coming early to take Toby for his walk on Monday morning, and we are busy with projects. Hopefully, nothing will happen in the next 12 hours!
I am delighted to tell you that we had a really wonderful week. Despite the temperatures plummeting, the early part of the week was marvellous, and we had some of the best walks of the entire winter. The garden is full of chickadees at dusk, with the European Starlings arriving several times a day to feed on cat or dog kibble. Brock is doing well. He was here Sunday evening and then found his way to my neighbour Jane’s, where he ate a feast and rested again. The pizza delivery driver came and, instead of bolting, he went to the other end of the porch and waited til the all clear. I hope he stays at Jane’s. It would make all of us have better blood pressure readings!
The Girls and Toby are also marvellous. Toby’s fur is as soft as a cloud. It is because of the dehydrated sardines. They helped us clean out the bookcases of all books and move the cases to the conservatory. They will be primed, painted, and reloaded. The plan is to move my desk and desktop computer out into the library area right in the middle of all the action within the house. Then I can keep an eye on everyone. At the same time, the books are out in the conservatory, ready for us to grab a new one at any time for story time.
So, wish us luck with all this painting! Missey’s tail seems to be the only problem – she always gets into mischief when it comes to paint, and we would think it would be Hugo Yugo.
Always nipping at one another!
These are the moments that get birders excited – a very rare bird in the Tommy Thompson Park in Toronto – a King Eider. Here is the news report with some really good information on Eider migration and ‘why’ it might have stopped over in Toronto: https://youtu.be/l4VPXXuXaOM?
I couldn’t stand it and had to check on Mum and the hatchling at Duke Farms. It is always a worry when a new hatch opens, and a storm hits. Sleet is starting to accumulate in New Jersey, around 1500. You can hear it hitting the camera lens. Send good wishes!
SK Hideaways outdid themselves on videos this week. Please check them out – this is a lot of hard work and incredible effort!
SK Hideaways Videos Week of 15 February 2026
Channel Island California Eagles Livestreamed nests: ~ Fraser Point ~ Santa Cruz Island ~ Cruz & Andor ~ Sauces Canyon ~ Santa Cruz Island ~ Audacity & Jak ~ Two Harbors ~ Catalina Island ~ Cholyn & Chase ~ West End ~ Catalina Island ~Resident in flux
Cruz Welcomes 1st Egg ~ Andor Snoozes in Waiting Room (2026 Feb 19) Cruz laid her first egg of the season after a day spent mostly in or near the nest bowl. Andor was perched nearby and will be ready to meet their egg first thing in the morning. Video: https://youtu.be/UlT9pQ_J9c8
Kestrel Brings Mouse to Snag ~ Dining Balance Act No eagles today, but Mr. Kestrel was quite entertaining. The neighborhood kestrel enjoyed his mouse breakfast while balancing on the tip of a snag. Feaking (cleaning beak) was a slippery proposition. (2026 Feb 21) Video: https://youtu.be/gkMOPrtpRz0
Chase Catches Fish 1 that Ate Fish 2 that Ate Fish 3 (2026 Feb 20) Chase brought Cholyn a massive fish gift that turned out to be a three-for-one deal. According to our resident fish expert, Chase caught a big Kelp Fish that had eaten the Topsmelt (whole, mind you), that had eaten a Sardine (also whole). Needless to say, both Cholyn and (finally) Chase filled their crops. Chase once again showed his excellence as a great provider and mate. Video: https://youtu.be/O7Spi_nane4
Chase Calls Cholyn for Fish 2x ~ Stunning Close-Ups (2026 Feb 15) At the height of nesting season, Chase is collecting lots of brownie points by delivering many fish gifts to Cholyn. Oh, Cholyn does love her fish! We were then gifted with some stunning close-ups of beautiful Cholyn, thanks to the stellar Two Harbors cam ops team. Video: https://youtu.be/PBj80qZsZdg
FOBBVCAM Eagles ~ Big Bear Valley, CA ~ Jackie & Shadow Courtesy FOBBVCAM | Friends of Big Bear Valley Resident Bald Eagle male: Shadow (unbanded) since May 2018. Estimated hatch year: 2014 Resident Bald Eagle female: Jackie (unbanded) since September 2016. Estimated hatch year: 2012 Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE Wide View Cam (Cam 2): https://youtube.com/live/LCGYWfbyBWc LIVE Recap & Observations https://bit.ly/3Md8TSz
Jackie Nibbles Shadow’s Neck on Frisky Friday Date Night (2026 Feb 20) After evening nestorations, Jackie was quite demonstrative about being ready for romance, which included her loud declarations and neck nibbles. Shadow was not quite ready and continued with his branch management. They made up for it later behind closed branches. Video: https://youtu.be/hwiTHNebbx0
Juvenile Eagle Interrupts Shadow’s Lunch ~ Jackie Comes Home to Mate (2026 Feb 18) As with Jackie’s fish a few days before, a juvenile bald eagle followed Shadow back to the nest hoping to share some of his lunch. Shadow, of course, wouldn’t hear of it, complaining until the youngster flew off. A bit later, Jackie arrived for nestorations and mating, the latter fairly rare on the nest. They departed together and were seen together later on the Lookout Snag for more mating. Fingers still crossed for a second clutch. Video: https://youtu.be/ctSrnTXP7wY
Jackie & Shadow Enjoy Snow Day Feesh & Sticks (2026 Feb 17) A snow-covered valley and nest did not keep Shadow from delivering a fish gift to Jackie nor did it keep her from happily collecting it. Shadow also delivered a stick, which required some placement negotiations. As a bonus, there were snowy beaky kisses. A brief but eventful visit. Video: https://youtu.be/2PqA-NX63FY
Juvie Spoils Jackie’s Peaceful Feesh ~ In Warmest Memory of Sandy Steers 💙(2026 Feb 15) As we remember Sandy Steers, the heart and soul of Big Bear Valley wildlife conservation, we are grateful for the opportunity to watch the lives of Jackie and Shadow. We think Sandy would have enjoyed today’s happenings.
Shadow brought one fish to the nest, which he peacefully enjoyed all to himself. But when Jackie brought her fish, a wily juvenile followed her in hopes of getting a few bites. Well, of course, Jackie was not about to share her fish and let the juvenile know in no uncertain terms. Jackie managed to finish her feesh with, the juvie keeping close watch, and then shooed it off. Much to our delight, the juvenile soared around the valley, gifting us a wonderful airshow. Even Jackie may have enjoyed the show, now that her belly was full. Video: https://youtu.be/WZqLPjTDxyU
John Bunker Sands Eagles ~ Combine, TX ~ Mom, Dad, and JBS24 JBS24’s Bottomless Buffet (and Belly) (2026 Feb 16) JBS24 is 3 weeks and 1 day old. The eaglet is spoiled for choice at mealtimes with Mom and Dad both often in the nest offering a variety of prey. JBS24 is growing up fast, now sporting grey thermal down and almost always a full crop. Video: https://youtu.be/h_Nks375XLg Courtesy John Bunker Sands Wetland Center Eagle Cam Eagle Tower Camera 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wdo7BzUU_g Eagle Tower Camera 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEDb2KqvvyQ
When I checked, both Jazz and Nola were in food comas in the Kisatchie National Forest E3 Bald Eagle nest of Alex and Andria II? III?
Gracie Shepherd catches E26 at the SW Florida Eagle nest of M15 and F23 trying out their wings in the wind. That eagle can really hover! Are we ready for this beauty to fledge? https://youtu.be/vEAmBdxHWlQ?
Suzanne Kay reveals the banding results from Dade County:
Quinn late Sunday nightwas hunkered down in the nest as a storm was rocking the nest at Captiva.
Beau and Gabby sure make beautiful babies – Kai and Eve, fully feathered and gorgeous. (I am a little soft on this nest!)
There is some amazing news coming out of Rutland’s Osprey Project.
Calico has a special video for everyone today. They have wings but are not raptors. Dani Connor Wild is in Mexico, and she went up to the top of the mountain on horseback and found thousands of Monarch butterflies.
It is so wonderful to have you with us. I always welcome your comments and your e-mails. I think I am almost caught up in answering – please accept my apologies for any delay. Take care. It is going to be a busy week, and I really hope that it is completely uneventful, no drama, nothing! We will see you again on Friday.
I am so grateful to SK Hideaways who so generously arranges their weekly videos for us – for all the others who contribute videos on YouTube, post information on FaceBook, and write articles that eduate each and every one of us. There is always something to learn! To the owners of the streaming cams, everyone is grateful to you. We would not know about the lives of our most wonderful raptor families without those cameras. I want to thank you, my readers, for caring for our wildlife, for writing those letters, and for being there and trying to help when it is needed. You are amazing and I am so grateful to have you as part of the Bird World family.
We had another beautiful, albeit slightly cooler day, today. There is still beautiful white fluffy snow in the garden and the birds were so busy eating tonight it made us wonder if there was another storm coming. Nothing predicted.
Quick nest news:
A wonderful video link sent to me by ‘L’ about the Laysan Albatross, Wisdom, and her legacy. This is the video caption: “Earlier this year, we shared that N333, Wisdom’s son from 2011, had welcomed a chick of his own. Thanks to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service volunteer Dan Rapp, we now get an up-close look at this newest member of Wisdom’s remarkable family tree. N333 has an incredible story himself—he survived the 2011 tsunami as a chick and has since returned to Midway to raise the next generation. Seeing his journey come full circle is a powerful reminder of the resilience of these birds and the importance of protecting their home. 👉 Read more about N333’s journey here: https://friendsofmidway.org/wisdoms-l…
Stella and Irvin have their first egg at the US Steel nest in PA. Congratulations!
Andor and Cruz have their first egg at the Fraser Point nest in the Channel Islands, California.
Little Miami Conservancy now has two eggs as of Thursday.
Pip watch continues for egg 1 and 2 at Duke Farms. It is doubtful if the first egg is viable (IMHO).
Decorah should have its second egg today. I haven’t see anything to indicate that another egg has been laid yet (It is 1945 CDT).
At the Two Harbours nest, Chase has been supplying Cholyn with some nice fish. SK Hideaways has it on video: https://youtu.be/O7Spi_nane4?
Now you see it, now you don’t. The thick cord with the bobber is still in the KNF E1 nest of Anna and Louis II. The eaglets so far have not gotten tangled again. Let’s hope this good news continues.
Lots of fish and nice big crops on both eaglets at the E3 nest of Alex and Andria at the KNF forest. This is lovely to see. Let us hope that fish delivery and good feedings by both parents continue.
Willow and Gus at Eagle Country had some trouble with their egg when it got caught on Willow’s leg. The egg is well past hatching but Willow continues to incubate. Androcat has the incident on video: https://youtu.be/VtVxoIDTyWM?
Fridays are cake day at our house. It is a way to end the week and get to spend some time with Ann. This was today’s offering from the Lilac Bakery – almost too beautiful to cut.
Everyone is well. We have had a good week. In fact, it has been a brilliant week. Knock on wood, this continues. I do not know if it is the warmer weather, my arthritis not bothering me so much, or Don’s new medications taking hold. The warm weather makes our walks so much nicer! I cannot tell you how much being outside lifts one’s soul. If you are feeling challenged for any reason, please spend some time outside. I promise it can be life-changing.
Toby wishes you a wonderful weekend!
Thank you so much for being with us this evening.
Thank you to ‘L’ for her link to the story about Wisdom’s son, to the authors of the FB posts, the owners of the streaming cams that let us look into the lives of the birds, to SK Hideaways, Androcat, and Friends of Midway Atoll for the videos I have included this evening.
