It’s hard to watch this without shedding a tear – it may be the most wholesome video you watch this month! It captures the story of one man’s heroic (and seemingly successful) efforts to rescue not just a mother golden eagle but also her two stranded chicks. Scroll down to watch the full video and have a sob!
How Do Golden Eagles Normally Nest?
In this clip we get a glimpse of two golden eagle chicks stranded in their nest at the top of a huge tree. Nesting is a big deal for golden eagles. The time between egg-laying to the chicks being independent can be six months. These magnificent birds nest in cliffs in mountainous landscapes or in tall trees in flat landscapes. One pair of eagles can have as many as 12 possible nests.
The structure itself is made from small sticks, cleverly interlocked to form a safe platform on which to lay eggs. Then, the inside is lined with something softer – often leafy twigs and conifer needles.
©Vladimir Kogan Michael/Shutterstock.com
What Are the Life Stages of Golden Eagles?
All golden eagles start off as eggs! These are laid at three to four day intervals and there can be as many as four in one nest. They measure around three inches by two inches and are a creamy white color with small brown spots. Adult golden eagles have been seen arranging leaves around the eggs, probably to keep them warm which is super cute! The mother eagle tends to incubate the eggs and the male brings her food.
After 43 to 45 days the eggs hatch and a downy nestling emerges. The mother stays with them and roosts on the nest until they are around 40 days old. They get their flight feathers when they are around 70 days old but remain weak flyers for another three weeks. Amazingly, they don’t get their full adult plumage until they are around five years old so these guys still have a lot of growing up to do!
Watch the Adorable Footage Below
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