Nest building: Bald eagles construct large nests high up in trees, often using the same nest for multiple years. Both parents contribute to building the nest, adding branches, sticks, bark, and other materials. The nest can measure up to 6 feet in diameter and weigh over 1 ton!
Egg laying and incubation: Bald eagles typically lay 1-3 eggs per clutch, although some may lay up to 5. Both parents participate in incubating the eggs, with the female doing most of the sitting. Incubation lasts for about 35 days.
Hatching and care for eaglets: Once the eggs hatch, the eaglets are cared for by both parents. They take turns brooding, feeding, and protecting the young eaglets. The eaglets are altricial, meaning they are born helpless and rely entirely on their parents for survival.
Feeding: Bald eagle parents are skilled hunters, and they provide their eaglets with a steady supply of food. They bring fish, small mammals, birds, and other prey to the nest, tearing it into pieces and feeding it to the eaglets. As the eaglets grow, they learn to tear food apart themselves.
Fledging: After about 10-12 weeks, the eaglets start to fledge, which means they are ready to leave the nest and fly. The parents encourage the eaglets to fledge by calling them and flapping their wings. Once they fledge, the young eagles continue to be fed and cared for by their parents for several more months until they become fully independent.
Bald eagle parents provide exemplary care for their young, ensuring their survival and growth. Through their dedicated parenting, they contribute to the conservation and population growth of this majestic bird of prey.