Hope Soars Away and Down-- need more eyes on the eagles!

[NewMexiKen]

At 7:15 this morning, one of the eaglets (presumably Hope, who is 11 weeks old today) flew out of the nest, made two small "circles," then flew a short distance to the west. She attempted to land in a tree that appeared to be SSW of the nest tree, but seemed unable to grasp a perch and dropped directly down out of sight. FWC was called, and Shawn Denton, Director of Public Works was also notified. Both advised us not to enter the nest area, and to wait for the FWC unit to arrive.

Two FWC staff did show up quite promptly, and they searched for about a half hour in the general area of the nest and the area where the chick had possibly dropped down. The saw nothing, and heard only the calls of the single chick remaining in the nest. The agents advised that the eaglet was old enough to defend itself and probably had flown out of the 20 acre "Eagle Forest."

While eagle watchers on the scene were disappointed at not receiving any information on the eaglets condition or location, we must remind everyone not to enter the posted area. We believe it is unlikely that the eaglet flew very far from the nest. I consulted Brian Mealey, Wildlife Biologist, who said the chick usually stays near the nest at first. He said the adults will reveal the location of the chick

Please keep an eye out, as many of us believe that the chick may still be nearby. Brian asked that he be called at 305-975-0200 if there is still no sign of the chick by around 3:00 PM today. He would require clearance from FWC to enter the nest, but will be able to provide advice. If Brian is in the field and does not answer, he said to call his wife, Loretta, at Miami Wildlife Rehab, 305-788-0533.



 

[NewMexiKen]

I left out part of Brian Mealey's advice-- he said that the adults will reveal the location of Hope when they fly in with food. Hope will start to call in anticipation of being fed. We are to keep a lookout to see if there is evidence that the adult is flying down to feed Hope.

Here is Justice all by himself in the nest this morning:

[lisa baumbach readon]

has anyone seen the missing eaglet?? Please let us know if you need help

Lisa Baumbach Reardon