A Bald Eagle pair in Iowa County appears to be beginning a 35-day incubation, suggesting the first of two eggs, usually, hatching about March 28. If there is a second egg, it could hatch before April Fool’s Day. That would put fledglings leaving the nest before Independence Day. Both male and female build the nest and annually repair the structure. Incubation is done by both parents, with exchange being quickly so eggs do not freeze. The hatchlings are immobile, downy, with eyes open, and are fed. During most of the next 35 days, the only common evidence of an active nest will be seeing the upper third or half of what looks like a white softball. The birds do stand to turn the eggs and to change position with the other incubating parent. It is common to see a second parent perching in the nest tree, however.
Countryside News
