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visitoDate TimeWhich Adult or eagletEventDescription of EventPosted by:
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12/27/2017 21:20:3612/27/20179:18:00 PMMr. PresidentArrival of Prey and by whomMr. P comes dashing in with a hard landing as he drops a big catfish on top of the nesting material, coating it with hay and dirt. He drags it through the nest, marinating it for an afternoon snack for the eaglets.....

TESTING: 12/27		FreeSoars_AEF
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12/27/2017 22:51:2012/27/201710:48:00 PMMr. PresidentVisitorA visitor hung out at the nest tree early this morning, hopping from nest to branching. When MrP flew in with a stick, the visitor flew into the nest and helped MrP with stick placement and aerating the nest. It was quite a sight!freebird_AEF
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12/29/2017 17:08:2512/29/20175:06:00 PMMr. PresidentArrival of Prey and by whomMr. P comes flying in with a nice, big fish! He plops it down on the nest and both Honor and Glory race to get to it first. Honor wins the battle with a big mantle leaving Glory screeching. Not before long, Glory plows into Honor and snags it away from her! All Honor can do now is hope that Glory saves her a bite or two! TESTING 12/29FreeSoars_AEF
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12/29/2017 17:11:3712/29/20175:11:00 PMMr. PresidentTesting Cell EditMr. P comes flying in with a nice, big fish! He plops it down on the nest and both Honor and Glory race to get to it first. Honor wins the battle with a big mantle leaving Glory to start screeching. Not before long, Glory plows into Honor and snags it away from her! All Honor can do now is hope that Glory saves her a bite or two! TESTING CELL EDIT 12/29FreeSoars_AEF
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12/30/2017 11:12:1712/30/201711:11:00 AMDC Eagle Cam 2018 SeasonWelcome Back, friends!Welcome back, DC eagle family! We are about to embark on another exhilarating season of our beloved DC eagle nest. We are so happy to have you back with us and are very grateful for all of our readers and viewers and the support you have continued to give to all of us at The American Eagle Foundation.

DC 1, Freedom, Liberty, Honor and Glory are soaring the thermals while Mr. P and TFL continue to prepare the nest and gear up to expand their family at home, in that lovely Tulip Poplar tree located on the beautiful grounds of the US National Arboretum in Washington DC.

Stickman's talons are buffed and shined, TFL's white crest has been coiffed by the most reputable eagle feather salon in the east side of DC, Stick Depot is open, The Blue Jay Gang is back in town, Mr. Squirrel will soon be receiving his eviction notice and the Headless Fish are in full stock and ready to be marinated in delicious dirt, hay and bugs. Yummy!

Chat will be live throughout the season and you can find the schedule located on the webcam page. We encourage all of you to sign up and interact with our experienced and knowledgeable team of Moderators. Feel free to submit questions or thoughts that you would like to be addressed during our live Q & A sessions.

The entire DC team is ready to serve up another great season. Headed by our driven and highly knowledgeable DC Team Leader, the Monitors, Moderators, Video Creator and Cam Ops will continue to bring you the very best coverage that you have come to expect from us! With that said, welcome, friends! Or as I like to call you all, the DC eagle Family!		FreeSoars_AEF
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12/30/2017 14:08:1712/30/20172:06:00 PMDC Eagle Cam 2018Welcome back, everyone!A warm welcome to all new viewers and return DC eagle cam watchers. We’re as roused up and ruffled in excitement as all of you to get the new season started, and honored to share all of the beauty, fun and adventure that MrP and TFL will surely bring. So, hold on to your hats as we fly into a new season at the DC nest. Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!freebird_AEF
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12/30/2017 16:05:3012/30/20173:49:00 PMDC Eagle Cam 2018Welcome back to DCWelcome to all our viewers, old and new. The New Year is about to begin, a time to reflect on the past and look to the future. Who could forget Freedom and Liberty, Honor and Glory. They will be forever in our hearts. We go on this joyous journey once again with Mr. President and The First Lady. We are so excited that you will be able to see this famous pair live. What a pleasure it will be to share the beautiful new memories with all of you.earlybird_AEF
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12/30/2017 18:11:5712/30/20175:36:00 PMDC Eagle Cam 2018Greetings DC Eagle Lovers!It is so exciting to be back with all of you for a new season with our glorious couple, Mr. President and The First Lady. In a world filled with uncertainty and change, it is comforting and gratifying to observe the repeated cycles of nature that our eagles provide each year and to know that you, the eagle-loving community, will join us once again to enjoy the experience. I wish you a very happy and healthy New Year as we begin this season's journey. Please enjoy the lyrics to Feeling Good, written by Newley and , which popped into my head for this occasion. Michael Buble does a great rendition on You Tube.
Feeling Good
"Birds flying high/You know how I feel/Sun in the sky/You know how I feel/Breeze driftin' on by/You know how I feel/
It's a new dawn/It's a new day/ lt's a new life/For me/And I'm feeling good...."

kaco4_AEF
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12/30/2017 20:59:4512/30/20178:57:00 PMDC Bonus Chat!DC Bonus Chat!Join us for a special bonus chat on our opening day of our live streaming eagle cams! Sunday, December 31st from 12-2 pm. Sign in at that time and have your questions ready! :) FreeSoars_AEF
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12/31/2017 1:48:4812/31/20171:44:00 AMDC Eagle Cam 2018Welcome Back to DCIt's wonderful to know you're all back with us as our images and words help us all share the beauty of these incredible creatures. It's an honor to be part of both their lives and yours. Thank you so much for joining us and I wish each of you the very best in this new year. liatfos_AEF
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12/31/2017 1:57:4112/31/20171:57:00 AMDC Bonus ChatDC Bonus ChatJoin us for a special bonus chat on the opening day of our live streaming DC Eagle Cam! Sunday, December 31st from 12-2 pm. Sign in at that time and have your questions ready! :) If you do not already have an account, sign up to participate!FreeSoars_AEF
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12/31/2017 7:21:1812/31/20177:11:00 AMeaglevocalizationsIt's a chilly but beautiful morning at the nest, the nearby lights twinkling like stars through the trees. A feeling of excitement is in the air. The DC cams are live again. Eagle squees are heard in the distance but no sighting yet.earlybird_AEF
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12/31/2017 9:27:5412/31/20179:17:00 AMMr President and The First LadyarrivalMrP has made an appearance. He is already busy at work fluffing and aerating the nest. TFL has arrived right behind him. What a treat to see them both working side by side. MrP flies up to the Lateral branch while TFL continues with nest duties. 9:22:00am MrP flies away while TFL looks on.earlybird_AEF
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12/31/2017 9:36:0212/31/20179:23:00 AMMr President and The First Ladynest workTFL continues to work in the nest as we see a fly by by MrP. Here he comes with a very big stick. It lands slightly on TFL but she maneuvers herself from under it and grabs one end. MrP jumps onto the Lateral branch then back into the nest. He seems to be full of energy today, moving sticks this way and that. TFL climbs onto the Lateral branch and flies. MrP follows soon after.earlybird_AEF
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12/31/2017 10:41:0112/31/201710:20:00 AMMr. President and The First Ladynest workTFL is perching on the Overhead Branch, gazing at her surroundings and doing some preening. MrP arrives at the nest with a nice bunch of grasses. Here's hoping that Mr Squirrel isn't watching. He loves to "borrow" that freshly brought grass. TFL joins MrP and together they fluff and spread that new moss. 10:24:00am MrP climbs up the Right V branch and TFL goes to the Lateral branch.earlybird_AEF
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12/31/2017 10:44:1112/31/201710:20:00 AMThe First Ladyeagle vocabularyPreening – grooming of the feathers, pulling the beak down the feather to clean and straighten it; preening is a behavior of birds in a relaxed state.earlybird_AEF
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12/31/2017 10:52:3012/31/201710:27:00 AMMr President and The First LadyperchingTFL continues to perch on the Lateral branch, with the wind ruffling her feathers. It is currently 18 degrees and breezy. MrP flies from the Right V branch and out of sight. TFL flies from her perch at 10:39:00am.earlybird_AEF
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12/31/2017 11:19:5312/31/201711:18:00 AMDC Bonus ChatDC Bonus ChatReminder: A special bonus chat this morning from 12-2 pm. :) Sign in at that time and have your questions ready :) FreeSoars_AEF
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12/31/2017 11:56:5612/31/201711:55:00 AMMr. PresidentArrivalMr. P makes a hard landing with a nice, thick stick. He plops it down and looks around for a moment before flying through the V, across the road and out of cam view. FreeSoars_AEF
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12/31/2017 12:05:0012/31/201712:02:00 PMWeatherWind Chill AdvisoryIt's a blustery day here in DC with winds at 11 mph. Current temp is 22 with a low tonight of around 12 degrees. Wind Chill Advisory remains in effect from 9 pm this evening to 9 am Est Monday. FreeSoars_AEF
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12/31/2017 12:11:2812/31/201712:06:00 PMThe Blue Jay GangThe Blue Jay GangOh geesh, really? did you hear them in the distance? They are back. Apparently The Blue Jay Gang did not receive my compasses that I put in their stockings for Christmas, however, reaching far down below all of my chocolate treats, TA DAH! I was gifted a pair of Blue Jay noise reduction ear plugs! (I don't always plug a product, but when I do, I still don't get paid by Stick Depot to do so) La La La La La I can't hear you, Blue Jays. Perhaps one day they will get it together and learn how to communicate with one another and pick a direction to fly in. For now, they are driving me bananas all over again. You know what that means? DC cams are up, the clarity is phenomenal and yes, the crisp microphone picks up every ear bleeding decibel level of our beloved Blue Jays! Oh, happy days!FreeSoars_AEF
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12/31/2017 12:40:1712/31/201712:38:00 PMThe Blue Jay GangThe Blue Jay GangBiting my tongue. No comment. LOLFreeSoars_AEF
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12/31/2017 12:56:0612/31/201712:53:00 AMEmpty NestEmpty NestI'm off and Freebird will take you into the next hour. Currently the nest is empty. Cheers and Happy New Year, DC Eagle Family!FreeSoars_AEF
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12/31/2017 14:00:2112/31/20171:59:00 PMempty nestno sightingsWe are left with birds chirping, branches creaking and gusts of wind blowing through leaves this hour. Did I actually describe the Blue Jays' calls as chirping? Squawking is more like it! We may not have gotten a glance at our main squees the past hour, but it's sure fun and peaceful watching over MrP and TFL's nest with all of you. freebird_AEF
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12/31/2017 15:27:2112/30/20173:06:00 PMDC nestAll is calm and chillyThe tulip poplar tree housing the magnificent nest now in the process of being refurbished and built up anew by our enthusiastic eagle couple, stands regally above its neighboring trees. Nothing quite compares to the view on Cam B in winter, or in any season of the year. Mr. P and TFL picked some prime real estate within which to reside! What a neighborhood! Our couple is not present at the nest right now. Perhaps they are hunkered down in the foliage of a pine tree on this frigid day. Temperature is 21 degrees going down to 12 degrees tonight! Stay warm, Mr. & Mrs.!kaco4_AEF
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12/31/2017 15:44:5212/31/20173:34:00 AMMr. P and TFLArrival at nest and bondingOur couple flies in and spends a few minutes arranging some new moss. Then frisky Mr. P mounts TFL in the nest for a bonding session with vocalizations. Then each goes his/her own way, with TFL perched on the lateral branch and Mr. P standing on rails in the nest. No vocalizations are now heard. Mr. P then flies off to the primary perching tree. TFL remains on the lateral branch preening.kaco4_AEF
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12/31/2017 15:50:0612/31/20173:45:00 AMMr. PresidentFlies to tree in back of nest treeCorrection: Mr. P did not fly off to the primary perching tree, but to a tree in back of the nest, off of Cam A. He is not visible from the nest. TFL continues her preening session. She is fluffed up to withstand the incoming winds.kaco4_AEF
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12/31/2017 16:08:2912/31/20174:05:00 PMThe First LadydepartureTFL departs the Lateral branch and we observe her flying high across the Arboretum in the direction of the river. A beautiful flight from our lady.freebird_AEF
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12/31/2017 16:59:0812/31/20174:54:00 PMMrP and TFLArrivalOne of the adults flies onto the overhead branch, then flies off and curves to the right. We hear both eagles chattering. The vocalizations become louder. MrP flies back to the tree onto the Overhead branch, draws his beak upward and calls out loudly. TFL joins him just moments later. An intruder/visitor is seen soaring in the distance behind the Primary Perching Tree. Both MrP and TFL continue to perch together on the Overhead branch.freebird_AEF
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12/31/2017 17:12:1512/31/20174:58:00 PMMrP and TFLactivity / departureBoth of our eagles continue to watch and call out occasionally. At 5pm, MrP flies into the nest to do some aerating while TFL remains perched above on lookout. It looks like their loud vocalizations have kept the visitor at bay. TFL takes off from the upper branch and MrP quickly chases after her. More calls are heard as they fly off together.freebird_AEF
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12/31/2017 22:30:3812/31/201710:30:00 PMNew Year's Eve at the NestEmpty Nest/New Year's EveIt is a cold night, with the wintery Washington D.C. temperature of 17°F (-8°C) feeling more like 5°F (-15°C) in the wind, and the nest sits empty in the dark quiet of the Arboretum. The First Lady and Mr. President are, for the moment, spending this night elsewhere, well-insulated against the chill, as (presumably unknown to either) the hands of the clock will soon turn to midnight and 2017 will become 2018 here on the east coast of the United States. It will be a new year for the pair, who (if all goes well) will again become new parents here in their sturdy nest home high in this beautiful Tulip Poplar tree.

As lights from the dwellings of their human neighbors sparkle in the distance, the eagles' home is dark, peaceful, and silent, without a single insect seeming to intrude on the beautiful quiet. Not even a visitor is visiting: it's simply the night and the nest, the hard work and dedication of Mr. President's rail-building efforts clear and visible in the form of the nest, highlighted beneath nighttime lights which neither eagle can see, a lovely silhouette of nature shining in the dark. Though an airplane rumbles its way through the sky above, at 10:30 pm, no winged creatures (nor furred ones, either) have yet made their appearance. The only sound is now the quiet rush of city traffic, tonight sounding somewhat more like a softly-flowing river than the rush of cars it truly is.		liatfos_AEF
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12/31/2017 23:14:1612/31/201711:15:00 PMEmpty NestEmpty Nest/New Year's EveAround 10:45 pm, a few quick fireworks sound sporadically from afar as the wind picks up slightly, its occasional gusts swaying the limbs of the nest-tree slightly. Otherwise, the calm of the night remains unbroken. The soft sound of far-away traffic combines with the gentle rush of the night's north wind, and together these create a peaceful ambience that surrounds the family's nest despite the busy, typically noise-filled city in which they dwell.liatfos_AEF
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1/1/2018 0:03:541/1/201812:00:00 AMEmpty NestHappy New Year!At 11:18 pm, the sound of sirens breaks the silence as if heralding the new year, rather than signaling some sort of distress. For several minutes they echo throughout the night, before at last fading into the distance. And still, not an eagle nor a squirrel nor a visitor of any sort to be seen (on camera, at least!). Again, more sirens call out through the night at 11:40 pm, a car alarm shrieking prior to their arrival. And, barely audible among all of these are certain softer sounds, ones seemingly closer to the nest. There's a somewhat familiar crackling of dried leaves or what perhaps is a crunching of bark: perhaps, nearby, someone may be perched, climbing, or perhaps it's simply the rustling wind that is heard. The source, if indeed an eagle or a visitor, remains out of camera range for the time being.

As midnight nears, the thumping sound of distant fireworks carries through the air to the nest, soon joined by the more staccato popping of fireworks a bit nearer the Arboretum. The wind maintains its soft but steady rustling through the branches, the lights from buildings remain bright, and at two minutes until midnight, the frequency of fireworks increases, until midnight when the popping and thundering near and far announces the the beginning of a new year! Happy New Year!!!

liatfos_AEF
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1/1/2018 8:35:291/1/20186:58:00 AMMr President and The First Ladyarrival Happy New Year to all of our viewers! It's been a Happy New Year at the nest this morning. MrP and TFL arrived bright and early to begin their morning chores, fluffing and aerating the grasses, moving sticks around. It looks like TFL has decided to take a break and climbs onto the Lateral branch. MrP joins her and there is an attempt at bonding. MrP flies off and at 7:14:00am he returns with a stick and begins to do more nest work.earlybird_AEF
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1/1/2018 9:53:251/1/20189:38:00 AMMr. PresidentreturnIt's a lovely day at The Arboretum, the sun filtering through the trees, the birds singing in perfect harmony. It is a clear, calm day, currently 12 degrees. MrP has returned to the nest, takes a quick glance around and off he goes. MrP arrives back at 9:38:00am and starts vocalizing loudly. He climbs up the Right V branch and is looking all around the area. earlybird_AEF
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1/1/2018 10:01:051/1/20189:51:00 AMMr President and The First LadyperchingMrP continues with some loud squees and up to the Overhead Branch he flies. Looks like TFL was waiting there for him. Both of them are now perching together, the beautiful blue sky as a backdrop behind them. 9:56:00 MrP flies and returns quickly with a stick. TFL joins him and they begin working together.earlybird_AEF
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1/1/2018 10:11:381/1/201810:02:00 AMMrP and TFLnest activity / departureTFL decides it's time to stop working and hops over to the Lateral branch and MrP takes off but returns a minute later with a multi-pronged branch that's very unruly to deal with, but MrP never gives up and places it near the supports and begins moving other sticks to fit around it. TFL remains all roused up and beautiful where she's perched. "You work MrP and I'll keep an eye on things." At 10:08am, TFL departs in a swooping flight across the Arboretum. One minute later, after darting and dodging his head in multiple directions, MrP flies off as well.freebird_AEF
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1/1/2018 12:05:111/1/201812:03:00 PMWeatherWeatherHappy New Year, DC Eagle Family! The nest is currently empty with no activity on cam view. It's currently 21 degrees and partly cloudy. Today's high is 24 with a low of 12 degrees. Winds currently at 13 mph and this evening winds are expected between 10 to 20 mph with clear skies.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/1/2018 12:07:481/1/201812:06:00 PMLights, Camera, Action!Video ClipEnjoy this video clip created by our Videographer:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRWG2pGEGc8&feature=youtu.be		FreeSoars_AEF
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1/1/2018 13:01:551/1/20181:00:00 PMEmpty NestEmpty NestAs we head into the 1 pm hour, no eagles are in cam view. The last sightings of Mr. P and TFL were at the 10 am hour when both were on the nest. FreeSoars_AEF
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1/1/2018 13:52:361/1/20181:47:00 PMBlue Jay GangBlue Jay GangWelp, no eagles in sight, but HARK! Who goes there? Figures - Just the Blue Jay Gang, of course. As if we could hear any other sound but them. Their New Year's Eve party must still be going on. Time to fly home, Gang. If you even know where that is. They always have the loudest of parties! Sheesh. Where was my invite, guys?FreeSoars_AEF
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1/1/2018 16:07:211/1/20184:00:00 PMThe First LadyarrivalTFL arrives, she lands in the nest then hops out to perch on the Lateral branch. The late afternoon sun shines golden on part of the branch and TFL's right wing.freebird_AEF
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1/1/2018 16:19:591/1/20184:11:00 PMMr. PresidentperchingMrP remains ever so quietly in place. He's busy looking around observantly but very relaxed. Because of the cold, his feathers are roused up and gusts of wind lift some of his feather tips as they blow through on occasion. The golden sunlight illuminates even more of the Lateral branch and MrP, along with the autumn leaves that still remain on some of the trees. Truly a stunning sight!freebird_AEF
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1/1/2018 16:38:081/1/20184:32:00 PMMr. PresidentdepartureMrP is fully bathed in the last light of day. He appears to be looking for TFL, turning his head 180 degrees on both sides to look behind him. At 4:34, he flies from the Lateral branch and departs. The cam looks upward and we see a gorgeous sunset in process.freebird_AEF
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1/1/2018 17:21:181/1/20185:14:00 PMMrP and TFLarrival / bondingMrP and TFL arrive back at the nest together and start doing some evening house cleaning. At 5:17, our eagle pair bonds in the nest. TFL flies off at 5:18, MrP moves to the rails and takes off as well. Good night, love birds!freebird_AEF
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1/2/2018 7:24:411/2/20187:14:00 AMMr. President and The First Ladyarrival and bondingThe sky is starting to lighten, the sounds of the Arboretum fill the air. Everyone is starting to wake up, the birds are chirping, the hum of traffic nearby, rustling sounds are heard below. MrP and TFL have arrived. MrP flies right to the nest, TFL lands on the Overhead branch. MrP starts fluffing and tries out the nest bowl. 7:17:00 he joins TFL and they have sweet bonding. Loud vocalizations are heard from them. I think it's a good chance that if anyone nearby was still sleeping they are awake now. Both continue to perch, quietly now, TFL rouses her feathers. 7:21:00am Both of them fly out of sight.earlybird_AEF
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1/2/2018 7:26:471/2/20187:14:00 AMThe First Ladyeagle vocabularyRouse – when the bird raises all their feathers and shakes, a sign of contentment.earlybird_AEF
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1/2/2018 9:08:461/2/20189:00:00 AMnonechilly dayJust a short visit from MrP and TFL this morning. Perhaps they are snuggled together on a branch somewhere basking in the golden sun. It is a very chilly morning, currently 13 degrees. We hope they warm up those tail feathers and come join us again soon. Enjoy your day and stay warm.earlybird_AEF
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1/2/2018 11:47:191/2/201811:47:00 AMEmpty NestEmpty NestAll is quiet on the home front. Mr .P and TFL have not returned to the nest since early this morning when they made an appearance. Nest is empty and the home territory is void of any background noise at the moment other than some small birds chirping.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/2/2018 11:49:191/2/201811:47:00 AMWeatherWeatherThis cold spell is not over just yet. Current temp is 19 degrees and the high today will be 27 with a low of 14. Sunny and clear skies throughout the day and into this evening. Winds are currently at 10-20 mph. FreeSoars_AEF
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1/2/2018 12:08:371/2/201812:07:00 PMEagles in Cold WeatherEagles in Cold WeatherAn eagle's large size helps it retain heat. Eagles have a higher inside-to-surface area ratio than a smaller bird like a chickadee. Less surface area means less heat lost to radiation, which is why northern animals tend to be larger than their southern cousins, eagles inclusive to that. These feathers help keep it warm and dry. Stiff exterior vane feathers zip together over smaller, fluffier down feathers, providing an overcoat of sorts to shed water and help keep heat from escaping. Underneath. Down feathers trap pockets of air next to the eagle's body, where it is quickly warmed and prevented from escaping. There is a time when heat needs to escape during incubation. A brood patch is a patch of bare skin on an eagle's breast. Eagles can roll, wiggle, and tuck their eggs up against the brood patch, effectively transferring heat from the eagle's roughly 104-degree body to the eggs. Since the optimal temperature for incubation is 99 degrees, some heat can be lost. The eagles regulate egg temperature by alternately incubating the eggs and leaving them uncovered. This will be vital once eggs are laid. Eagles "unzip" their feathers during preening keeping them all neat and tidy for such weather variations as well as keeping them all scrub-a-dub clean! In addition to all of this, eagles legs use counter current heat - to control body temperature. Warm arterial blood flowing from an eagle's core into its feet passes cool venous blood flowing the other way. Heat is exchanged, warming the blood flowing into its core and cooling the blood flowing into its feet. The cooler blood is still warm enough to prevent frostbite, but the lower temperature reduces the gradient between its insides and its outsides, preventing excessive heat loss through its feet. FreeSoars_AEF
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1/2/2018 12:18:201/2/201812:16:00 PMRoad ClosureRoad ClosureAEF DC. January 2, 2018. Before the US National Arboretum opened this morning, the road around the DC Bald Eagles nest was closed to the public. This is to protect and assure the safety of our beloved eagles during nesting season. Roads will reopen in the summer - a date will be announced at that time.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/2/2018 16:17:461/2/20184:10:00 PMeaglein flightAn eagle was spotted flying in the distance around 3:12pm today, but there have been no visits to the nest between now and then. There are a lot of rustling noises though. I imagine Mr. Squirrel is doing some construction work below the nest. freebird_AEF
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1/3/2018 10:36:551/3/201810:33:00 AMEmpty NestEmpty NestAll is quiet on the home front this morning. Mr. Squirrel did make an appearance and tried to sneak away with some fluff, but had second thoughts and left empty handed. I think he is really starting to feel remorse for his bad morals and from stealing from our eagles. Guilty as charged!FreeSoars_AEF
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1/3/2018 10:41:241/3/201810:37:00 AMWeatherWeatherCurrently a sweltering 25 degrees out. We're on a warm streak. Take off those winter gloves and Grandma's crocheted hats with the pom pom on top today. Tonight we drop to the mid 20's with snow showers coming into the area late tonight. Winds are currently 5-10 mph and will increase this evening to 10-20 mph. FreeSoars_AEF
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1/3/2018 13:51:071/3/20181:48:00 PMVisitorPerchedA beautiful young sub adult visitor has been at the nest for almost an hour. S/he has moved back and forth from the nest to the Lateral Branch a few times. Currently s/he is perched on the branch and just in what appears to be a state of relaxation as this beauty peers out into TFL's and Mr. P's home territory. No sight of our beloved pair during this time of visitation.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/3/2018 13:59:021/3/20181:54:00 PMMr. PresidentArrivalMr. P arrives to the nest to say "Whazzup" to our beautiful Sub Adult. He lands on the right V and pauses for a moment while the two chit chat with loud squeaks to one another. After that brief moment, Mr. P departed the nest to the right side. The Sub Adult then jumped into the nest and grabs some fluff with his/her beak and paces back and forth while looking out into the home territory.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/3/2018 14:13:211/3/20182:12:00 PMVisitorDepartureAt 2:12 pm, the visitor departed the nest tree and flew out of cam view.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/3/2018 17:07:061/3/20184:53:00 PMsub adult.nest dutiesWe have a sub adult at the nest. Such a gorgeous eagle and so helpful too. Looks like she/he wants to help with the housekeeping chores. I wonder if MrP and TFL will appreciate all this hard work. There is a rustling sound nearby that is getting it's attention. What could it be? Is it Mr. Squirrel? Is it a deer? Inquiring minds want to know. We will keep our eagle eyes on it.earlybird_AEF
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1/3/2018 17:35:131/3/20185:07:00 PMsub adultnest dutiesThe sub adult continues with the nest work. She/he walks onto the V and takes a look around. What a beautiful view. An eagle would be happy to be looking at this gorgeous scenery everyday. Not so fast beauty. This nest is already occupied by a very famous pair but it sure is nice that you came for a visit. The skies are starting to darken, geese are heard in the distance. Will our visitor stay the night? That nest bowl looks mighty comfortable. But no, it looks like this beauty has some place else to go. She/he takes one last look around and off it goes to a nearby branch and then out of sight. We can only hope we will see She/he again.earlybird_AEF
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1/3/2018 23:27:361/3/201811:25:00 PMVisitorArrival and DepartureA visitor arrived at the nest and stayed for just under 5 minutes. Because it is dark, it's hard to judge if this was the same one as earlier in the day, but there is a good likelihood it was considering it knew it's way back to the nest in the dark.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 6:53:581/4/20183:13:00 AMsub adultarrivalA sub adult visited the nest again in the wee hours of the morning. We believe this could be the same beauty that graced us with it's presence yesterday. The snow had already picked up so perhaps it was looking for a safe shelter in the storm. It spent over an hour in the nest and on the Lateral branch. earlybird_AEF
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1/4/2018 7:32:171/4/20187:22:00 AMsub adultarrivalWhat an enchanted wonderland this morning, a smooth blanket of snow covers the nest. It looks like this is our same visitor who has arrived again. It lands in the nest, moves some snow covered grass, and goes onto the Lateral branch. 7:24:00 Off it flies.earlybird_AEF
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1/4/2018 8:01:531/4/20187:39:00 AMMr. PresidentperchingI believe this is MrP who has landed on the Overhead branch. The wind is howling this morning, currently 23 degrees. He is looking here, there and everywhere. Perhaps he is in search of the visitor. No way to know if he has spotted it this morning. He doesn't give the appearance of being concerned, just perching calmly with the wind blowing him around and ruffling those feathers.earlybird_AEF
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1/4/2018 8:26:201/4/20188:05:00 AMMr President and The First Lady.nest dutiesMrP has just joined TFL on the Overhead branch. Loud vocalizations then MrP flies down into the nest, TFL quickly follows. Busy work for both of them, moving the snow around to uncover the fluff. TFL flies onto the Lateral branch, MrP joins her. An attempt at bonding is made and MrP flies as TFL looks on. MrP returns with a nice clump of moss. TFL joins him in the nest, perhaps to check out what he brought but quickly returns to the Lateral branch. 8:21:00am MrP flies away again. Correction to the previous post. That was TFL who arrived first this morning on the Lateral branch.earlybird_AEF
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1/4/2018 8:50:291/4/20188:26:00 AMThe First Ladyperching The Arboretum is so quiet this morning, just the sounds of the howling wind. Even the birds must be elsewhere seeking shelter. TFL continues to perch quietly on the Lateral branch, perhaps waiting for MrP to arrive back at the nest. earlybird_AEF
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1/4/2018 9:01:541/4/20188:54:00 AMThe First LadyperchingTFL seems to have her eagle eyes focused on something. Her head is crouched down, looking at something intently. All seems calm now. Once again she is just gazing around. No sign of MrP again yet.earlybird_AEF
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1/4/2018 10:23:441/4/201810:23:00 AMWeatherWeatherWindy with snow showers this morning. High 27F. Winds NW at 25 to 35 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph. Tonight: Clear skies. Gusty winds during the evening. Low near 10F. Winds WNW at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 10:53:081/4/201810:44:00 AMOn the NestOn the NestPull up a twig, sit down and embrace yourself with the ambiance of fine family dining. On the menu today: Pain au snow with delicately prepared fresh hay topping. This fine cuisine pairs beautifully with Anacostia River aged water. 475 calories.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 11:42:321/4/201811:42:00 AMVideo ClipHappy New Yearhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8EqtYLPWVc&feature=youtu.beFreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 12:48:251/4/201812:46:00 PMEmpty NestEmpty NestCurrently the nest is vacant. No sight of the eagles since late this morning. Current temp is 25 and cloudy.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 13:39:151/4/20181:15:00 PMMr. P & TFLArrivalMr. P and TFL arrive at the nest around 1:15, both went into the nest and loafed around before TFL departed. Mr. P remains perched on the Right V, he peers out to his home territory and takes in the beautiful wintry wonderland that surrounds him.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 13:58:261/4/20181:55:00 PMMr. PresidentDepartureMr. P departs the nest tree.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 15:41:561/4/20183:30:00 PMMr. P and TFLMatingMr. P and TFL arrive at the nest and successful bond. Three cheers for Mr. P! Hip Hip Hooray! TFL departs the nest while Mr. P rearranges sticks here, there and everywhere. He pauses and looks around while the tree shakes back and forth from the wind. I got my Dramamine supply on hand, so all is ok!FreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 15:43:341/4/20183:43:00 PMMr. PresidentDepartureMr. P departs the nest (with a smile on his face)FreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 15:48:211/4/20183:45:00 PMMr. PresidentArrivalMr. P returns to the nest. He quickly fusses with some fluff and sticks. At 3:47 he jumps to the crib rails, looks out for a moment, opens his wings and flies off and past the PPT and out of cam view.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 16:56:541/4/20184:56:00 PMSunsetSunsetSunsetFreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 16:59:191/4/20184:58:00 PMWeatherWeatherCurrently 23 degrees. Tonight - Mostly clear and windy. Low 9F. Winds WNW at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/4/2018 17:06:131/4/20185:00:00 PMTFL & Mr. PArrival & DepartureBoth Mr. P and TFL arrive at the nest and quickly fuss with some moss and sticks. At 5:02 TFL departs the nest tree and Mr. P remains doing some light nestorations. At 5:05 Mr. P departs the nest tree taking flight across the road and out of cam view.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/5/2018 7:21:111/5/20187:06:00 AMMrP and TFLarrivalThere's a chill in the air but a warmth in our hearts this morning. MrP and TFL have both arrived at the nest. It is only 11 degrees but they are used to the elements. Nothing will deter them from getting the job done. There is still some snow left on the nest. Both of them get to work aerating the nest. Looks like MrP wants to give the nest bowl a try. Wiggle wiggle down he goes. TFL goes onto the Lateral branch. MrP continues with the nest work, tries out the nest bowl again. He stays in it for a nice long time. I think our MrP is anxious to have some eaglets. It's a little too soon yet but we are all looking forward to it too. MrP joins his Lady on the Lateral branch. She gives him some sweet squees. Back into the nest he goes and back to lying down in the nest bowl. earlybird_AEF
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1/5/2018 7:33:401/5/20187:19:00 AMMrP and TFLperchingTFL continues to perch on the Lateral branch watching MrP work. He joins her, gives her that special look and a little squee. But it doesn't look like there will be any bonding this morning. They perch sweetly side by side, two lovebirds looking out at their domain with the snow covered trees as their backdrop. 7:24am MrP flies off and TFL quickly follows.earlybird_AEF
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1/5/2018 10:03:471/5/201810:02:00 AMWeatherWeatherToday: Sunny with gusty winds developing this afternoon. High 19F. Winds WNW at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph. This evening: Clear skies. Low 8F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/5/2018 15:31:021/5/20183:28:00 PMMrP and TFLupdateLooks like we're having a heat wave this afternoon. The temperature is up to a balmy 18 degrees. Time to get out the shorts and flip flops. MrP and TFL were here briefly around 1:30pm, did a little nest work and off they flew. Maybe they are doing a little fishing or sunning themselves by the river. Hope they'll join us here soon.earlybird_AEF
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1/5/2018 15:57:591/5/20183:54:00 PMnonewaitingThe nest is looking good this afternoon, almost all of the snow has melted, the grass looks all fluffy again. I wouldn't be surprised to see Mr Squirrel do his snatch and grab and take some of that grass to his Nut House. But no, not a squirrel in sight and no sighting of our eagles. earlybird_AEF
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1/5/2018 16:57:161/5/20184:46:00 PMThe First Ladyshort visitIt appears to be TFL who flies onto the overhead branch to perch. It looks like she's snuggling down into her zipped feathers for warmth, with wings held closely to her body, and feathers fluffed out. She quietly glances about but doesn't stay long. With the golden sunset behind her, she flies off after only a couple minutes. A short visit is always better than no visit at all. After she departs, the sun sets through the trees and glows red like fire. We've sure had some gorgeous sunsets lately.freebird_AEF
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1/5/2018 17:28:201/5/20185:22:00 PMMr. Presidentshort visitMrP flies into the nest, aerates, looks around, walks over to the rails and flies off, all within one minute.freebird_AEF
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1/5/2018 21:29:471/5/20189:30:00 PMEmpty Nest/WeatherWeatherOn this frigid January night, there's neither sight nor sound of an eagle at the nest. 16°F (-9°C) with winds making it feel about ten degrees colder, only the rustling breeze, intermittently gusting, and an occasional train sounding its horn break the dark silence. In the distance, snow atop buildings brightens the background, with the still, tall trees surrounding the eagles' home are dark. The nest itself -- highlighted, as always, by the lights which humans (but not eagles) are able to see -- is empty, but Mr. President's ongoing construction, at times aided by a visitor or two, is quite evident. New sticks top and fill out the nest rails, which -- as they continue to edge upward -- become an increasingly secure way to ensure the safety of any tiny eaglets who just may come to dwell within the nest-bed of grass and soft straw in coming months. Somewhere in the night, The First Lady and Mr. President, with beautiful, thick layers keeping them well-insulated from the cold, may be sleeping, hunting, dreaming, or soaring -- but, during these pre-eaglet days, moments such as these in which the nest remains empty and the eagles unseen belong solely to the eagles, themselves. Soon enough, they'll share much of their lives with us; for now, the eagles' lives are known only to themselves -- and, perhaps, to certain other, wild dwellers of the Arboretum on this quiet, snowy Washington D.C. night.
liatfos_AEF
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1/6/2018 10:16:021/6/201810:13:00 AMWeatherWeatherIt's a bitter cold day again. Currently it's 13 degrees. Today: Sunny. High 19F. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. Tonight: Clear skies. Low 7F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph. A wind advisory is in effect until 6am Sunday morning. Expect wind chills to range from 0 to -10 below.FreeSoars_AEF
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1/6/2018 10:20:511/6/201810:16:00 AMMr. P & TFLMorning UpdateGood morning, DC eagle family! Happy Saturday to you all.
Mr. P and TFL visited the nest tree this morning and looked absolutely gorgeous with the sunlight shining on them. They were poofed up while perched with their feathers spread and a hefty weight look to them. Due to the extreme cold weather, birds fluff their feathers to trap heat and slow their metabolism to conserve energy. The beautiful pair had a bonding as well.		FreeSoars_AEF
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1/6/2018 10:36:121/6/201810:34:00 AMDefinitionCopulation (Mating/Bonding)Mating happens by pressing cloaca together – This is also known as the ‘cloacal kiss’. The female will lean forward, the male will land on her back. The female will move her tail feathers to one side, the male will press and twist his cloacal opening around her cloaca, passing the sperm from his cloaca to hers.

Generally, eagles may mate throughout the year depending on if the pair migrates. Frequent mating strengthens their bond to each other and increases the chance of fertile eggs, the female may have 3 two week windows throughout a breeding season where she is fertile. The male’s sperm is said to be viable inside the female for 10 days. Increasing daylight hours causes the females pituitary gland to secrete a hormone that turns on the ova. The ova is turned off by prolactin which is the hormone associated with incubation.

Read more about eagles by visiting:

https://www.eagles.org/what-we-do/educate/learn-about-eagles/bald-eagles/		FreeSoars_AEF
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1/6/2018 12:00:151/6/201811:57:00 AMEmpty NestEmpty NestAs we head into the noon hour, the nest tree is void of our beautiful eagles. Mr. P and TFL have not been back to the nest since early this morning. Hopefully they are perched in the direct sunlight so it can warm them up just a bit more and then give us another grand entrance and fly in together like earlier! :) FreeSoars_AEF
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1/6/2018 13:30:491/6/20181:30:00 PMnonetour of the areaNo eagle sightings yet this afternoon but we're getting a lovely tour from our Cam Operator. Such a picturesque scene of the area, a carpet of glistening snow on the ground, trees still with leaves of yellow, orange and red, golden tulip flowers on the nest tree, bare trees blowing in the wind. MrP and TFL have chosen a wonderful place to build their nest.earlybird_AEF
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1/6/2018 14:57:201/6/20182:44:00 PMEmpty NestEmpty NestMrP and TFL still haven't come back to the nest but we have been lucky enough to see some waddling geese, a fox leaving footprints in the snow and even a group of deer near the Primary Perching Tree. Along with that we have enjoyed the continuing symphony of birds. earlybird_AEF
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1/6/2018 15:38:141/6/20183:29:00 PMactivitiesarea tourIt looks like the geese are having a good meal at the golf course on the other side of the Anacostia River. A fox was seen scampering past some of the feeding geese which explains why several took off in flight. The river looks so icy cold on this blustery winter day in DC as we continue cam tours of the area.freebird_AEF
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1/6/2018 17:01:291/6/20184:46:00 PMupdatenest / weatherOver the past two hours, we've not seen a peep or heard a squee from MrP, TFL or any eagle for that matter! I suspect they are perching much of the day in order to conserve their energy. In fact, in the winter, it's common for eagles to perch up to 98 percent of the day. We did see another spectacular sunset. Tonight the nest branches and limbs appeared to shine as if they were gold plated from the setting sun. It is currently 17 degrees with a wind chill advisory still in effect. Winds are from the SW at 14 mph, making it feel like it's 0 degrees outside. The forecast suggests a slow warm up beginning Sunday.freebird_AEF
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1/7/2018 7:22:521/7/20187:04:00 AMempty nestempty nestThe skies are starting to brighten, it's almost time for the sun to rise. What a beautiful sky it is this morning, lovely hues of blue, yellow and gold. There's just a sprinkling of snow left, covering the ground like confetti. The temperature is currently 8 degrees. Some rustling sounds are heard nearby, birds are singing in the trees. A large bird was seen flying by but too quick to identify if it was one of the eagles.earlybird_AEF
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1/7/2018 11:17:111/7/201811:00:00 AMsquirrelsnest activityNo eagles, but viewers were treated to watching the regularly visiting grey squirrel and its friend, a white squirrel, scurry about the nest area and branches. Before departing, the grey squirrel stuffed their cheeks full of light fluffy grasses that MrP so diligently brought to the nest. You better watch out little one! MrP's going to wonder where all his fluff is going.freebird_AEF
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1/7/2018 13:06:481/7/201812:50:00 PMMrP and TFLarrival and departureMrP has finally arrived today, TFL is right behind him. Perhaps they felt it was finally warm enough to venture out.Time to do a little nest work, fluffing and aerating and moving some sticks. TFL moves onto the Lateral branch, it seems to be her favorite spot to supervise. I wonder if they have noticed yet that someone has visited their nest and taken quite a bit of the fluff. MrP flies off, perhaps to replenish that moss. TFL watches him leave and starts to vocalize loudly. It sounds like that could be MrP answering backearlybird_AEF
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1/7/2018 13:20:401/7/20181:05:00 PMMrP and TFLbondingMrP has returned with a nice size stick. TFL joins him in the nest for some sweet bonding. MrP leaves once again and within seconds is back with another stick. TFL returns to the Lateral branch while MrP moves the stick around, trying to find just the right spot. He places it in the V perch and returns to the nest to try out the nest bowl. But no time to rest for MrP, he grabs another stick and starts removing the twigs and sharp edges. TFL flies off at 1:15pm. MrP stops his work and looks in all directions. Is he wondering where his Lady is going? Off he goes, perhaps in search of her.earlybird_AEF