First Nest. As of Thursday afternoon mom Kate had not yet laid eggs. Captain Doug and I were out checking on the nests. We found Bard at First Nest being quite put out. He looked left, he looked right, he looked high and was wondering where the heck was mom Kate. Most likely she was out fishing for her own supper. I’ll be back out the next day or two and hoping to find one or the other of the parents in incubation. #FirstNest #DocEllensJourney
First Nest. It’s Christmas Eve and bald eagle Mom Kate and Dad Bard decided to make additions to their nest. They are busy … almost time for Mom Kate to lay eggs!
Jordan Lake First Nest. Kate is a study in vibrant muscles, fierce talons, flowing feathers, bright eyes, sharp beak and determination. Sometimes I more clearly see the majesty when being able to study moment by moment the launch of a bald eagle.
First Nest. Kate is carrying a large bundle of reeds and grasses. She and Bard will use these reeds to weave between the branches that have been added to the nest. This kind of nesting material keeps the eggs from falling through the gaps in between the newly repaired areas. Next step will be the addition of soft grasses to the floor of the nest to provide a soft place for Kate to make an egg cup that will cradle the eggs.
Jordan Lake. First Nest. Oh, oops! Dad Bard is persistent! Bald eagles and ospreys both tend to snatch limbs for their nests right off of a standing tree. Bard did that trick and you can see why his choice of branch got him into trouble this time.
First Nest Update. Mom Kate was a half mile away from me when she realized a 3-year-old bald eagle was too close to her nest. Watch what happens. A wild beginning to the 2023 – 2024 bald eagle breeding season at Jordan Lake.
doc ellen's journey 