Partners

Eagle Country

Our partner Eagle Country is a passionate, small-group initiative based in southwest Florida that invites viewers into the world of live streaming the life of bald eagles in their natural habitat. Founded around 2018, the team began by sharing footage of a nest on private ranch land and have since built a multi-camera setup including a nest cam, bayhead cam, and two new river cams to give wildlife fans a rich, immersive eagle-watching experience.

What stands out about Eagle Country is their blend of devotion to nature and their roots: the nest site sits on a working cattle ranch owned by a family that has cared for the land for generations, and the team emphasizes values like gratitude, stewardship, and respect for the wildlife they observe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the bald eagles featured on the Eagle Country Live Cam?

The resident pair are Skye and Blaze, a bonded pair nesting in southwest Florida. Blaze is a seasoned male, and Skye is his new mate for the 2024–25 season.

Where is the Eagle Country bald eagle nest located?

The nest is in Sarasota County, Florida, surrounded by lush oak hammocks and open wetlands—an ideal setting for bald eagles to hunt and raise young.

When is the best time of year to watch the eagles?

Nesting season runs from late fall through spring, with eggs usually laid between December and January and eaglets fledging by late spring.

What are the best times of day to see activity on the cam?

Eagles are most active around sunrise and sunset when they hunt, deliver food, and perform nest maintenance.

What is special about this bald eagle nest?

It’s one of Florida’s most resilient nests, rebuilt multiple times after hurricanes like Ian and Milton, showcasing the eagles’ strength and devotion.

How can viewers tell Skye and Blaze apart?

Skye has a slightly darker tail and deeper eyes, while Blaze has golden eyes and a bold “eyebrow” marking that gives him a distinctive expression.

What happened to the previous female eagle, Abby?

Abby nested with Blaze for several seasons, successfully raising eaglets including Swampy and Meadow in 2024 before being replaced by Skye.

How long have bald eagles used this nest site?

Eagles have been documented nesting here since 2018, returning to the same territory each year to rebuild and raise new offspring.

How big is the nest?

The nest spans about five to six feet across and weighs hundreds of pounds, built high in a pine tree to stay clear of ground predators.

What kind of prey do Skye and Blaze bring to the nest?

Their diet includes fish, small mammals, and water birds—whatever’s most abundant in the wetlands near their territory.

Do bald eagles mate for life?

Yes, most pairs mate for life and return to the same nesting area each year, strengthening their bond through mutual nest building and care of young.

How can you tell when eggs are coming soon?

You’ll notice frequent nest visits, soft vocalizations, and gentle rearranging of the nest bowl as the pair prepares for egg laying.

How long does it take for bald eagle eggs to hatch?

Incubation lasts about 35 days, with both parents taking turns keeping the eggs warm and protected.

When do the eaglets typically fledge?

Young eagles usually take their first flight around 10–12 weeks after hatching, often testing their wings on the nest edge before taking off.

What challenges do the eagles face in Florida’s climate?

High winds, summer storms, and intense heat can damage nests or stress the eagles, but this pair has shown remarkable resilience.

What is the significance of this cam to conservation?

It helps viewers connect with wildlife and understand the importance of protecting nesting habitats for bald eagles and other raptors.

How do bald eagles communicate?

They use chirps, whistles, and body language—such as head bows and wing spreads—to bond and defend their territory.

Are the eaglets named each year?

Yes, the Eagle Country team often names eaglets after local themes or nature references—like Swampy and Meadow in 2024.

How old can bald eagles live in the wild?

Wild bald eagles can live 20–30 years, though survival depends on territory stability and available food sources.

Why are bald eagles’ heads white?

The white head and tail develop after about five years, signaling maturity and readiness to breed.

Do both parents care for the chicks?

Yes, both Skye and Blaze share incubation, feeding, and protection duties equally, often switching roles throughout the day.

What happens when storms hit the nest?

The eagles often ride out severe weather in place, crouching low over eggs or chicks, then rebuild quickly if the nest is damaged.

What do young eaglets eat?

Parents tear food into small pieces—mainly fish and small mammals—to feed eaglets until they can handle larger prey.

When do eaglets start learning to fly?

Around 10 weeks, eaglets start “wingercizing,” flapping and hopping on the nest rim to build muscle before their first flight.

What role does EagleCountry.net play in this project?

EagleCountry.net is the local partner team that monitors the nest, shares updates, and helps promote conservation awareness.

How did the Eagle Country cam project begin?

It started in 2018 when local enthusiasts teamed up with HDOnTap to provide a live educational window into the life of wild Florida eagles.

Are the eagles banded or tracked?

No, the eagles here are wild and unbanded, allowing natural behavior without human interference.

What does the name “Eagle Country” represent?

It reflects both the location’s rural Florida charm and the mission to share the story of America’s national bird in its natural habitat.

Do bald eagles migrate from this area?

Florida’s bald eagles are mostly year-round residents, though northern visitors may join them during winter months.

How many eaglets have fledged from this nest?

Several eaglets have successfully fledged since 2018, including Swampy, Meadow, and other earlier offspring noted by local followers.

Why is the bald eagle America’s national bird?

Chosen in 1782 for its strength, independence, and majestic presence, it symbolizes freedom and resilience.

How large is a bald eagle’s wingspan?

Adult bald eagles have wingspans reaching up to seven feet, allowing them to soar effortlessly over large distances.

Can people visit the nest in person?

The nest’s exact location is kept private to protect the eagles from disturbance, but the live cam offers an intimate, ethical viewing alternative.

How can viewers support the project?

Fans can share the stream, follow EagleCountry.net, or support local wildlife groups that maintain the habitat and camera system.

Why are live cams like this important for wildlife education?

They let people witness the natural cycle of life in real time, inspiring appreciation and care for wild species and their ecosystems.