Bald eagle nest featuring two eggs on Hilton Head Island, a symbol of nature's beauty.
A pair of resident bald eagles on Hilton Head Island, George and Gracie, are thrilled to incubate two eggs laid in early January 2025. With the first egg appearing on January 3rd and the second on January 7th, enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the hatching in 35 days. The eagle cam set up by the Hilton Head Island Land Trust allows fans to observe the nesting process. This marks the 13th season for this eagle couple at their nesting site, showcasing their commitment to each other and their traditions amidst the winter challenges facing the local ecosystem.
In the beautiful town of Hilton Head Island, a delightful event is unfolding as a pair of resident bald eagles take on the role of doting parents once again. George and Gracie, the dynamic duo of the skies, are excitedly incubating two eggs that recently made their debut. The first egg made its entrance on the evening of January 3, 2025, at precisely 6:54 PM, and the second one followed closely on January 7, 2025, at 6:50 PM. This birthing pattern is pretty typical for bald eagles, and there’s still a chance for more eggs to join the nest in the coming days.
As we all gear up for the hatching season, fans of these majestic creatures have their eyes set on the progress of the eggs. If everything goes according to plan, the eaglets should start cracking their way into the world in about 35 days. What a joyous occasion that will be for both the eagle couple and the onlookers!
This year marks a noteworthy milestone, as 2025 is the 13th season that George and Gracie have returned to their cherished nesting site. Their commitment to each other and their nesting traditions have captured the hearts of many. To enhance the viewing experience, the Hilton Head Island Land Trust has thoughtfully set up an eagle cam in a secret spot nearby. This cam allows folks to observe the nesting events without causing any disruption, thanks to its nifty infrared lighting that enables night-time viewing.
Last year, the eagle cam gained fame when it featured some adorable great horned owls nurturing their eggs, attracting viewers from all over the globe. Adding a feather to its cap, the first egg’s arrival coincided with President Biden’s signing of a bill officially designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States. The bald eagle has served as the nation’s emblem for nearly 250 years but only recently received this well-deserved title.
The eagle cam isn’t a new phenomenon; it has welcomed nearly 1.7 million visitors over the years, eagerly tuning in to witness the natural miracle of life unfold. Last season, the Raptor Cam also recorded the exciting moments as owlets, known as HH5 and HH6, hatched and grew stronger. The local community, alongside the Hilton Head Island Land Trust, is actively monitoring the eagle’s nesting activities. There are even discussions about holding contests related to the hatching, which is sure to spark excitement!
While the eagle family is experiencing a budding new life, the winter season is throwing some challenges into the mix. Commercial shrimp fishermen are understandably worried about the cold temperatures affecting the wintering shrimp population, which is essential for the upcoming spring roe crop. Additionally, the cold weather has led to “cold stunned” conditions for sea turtles in the area. This has caused lethargy and swimming issues for some of these cold-blooded reptiles, prompting the Sea Turtle Patrol to remain vigilant for more cases.
The local economy, too, is feeling the pinch, with fewer visitors braving the chilly beaches, though a few adventurous souls still venture out to enjoy the stunning views. A state of emergency has been declared in South Carolina due to extreme winter weather forecasts, setting the stage for possible snow, sleet, and ice in various parts of the state.
As we keep our fingers crossed for a smooth hatching process, the bonding journey of George and Gracie is a heartwarming reminder of the beauty of nature, even amid a chill in the air. Here’s hoping that the new year brings joy, warmth, and the continued thriving of our feathered friends.
Gracie the Eagle Lays Two Eggs on Hilton Head Island
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