Eaglet makes spotlight on DNR EagleCam

A newly hatched bald eagle chick was spotted Thursday, March 26, in a nest monitored by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ EagleCam, drawing excitement from viewers and staff alike.

DNR staff confirmed the sighting after several keen-eyed viewers reported the chick’s arrival. The baby eagle was first seen in the nest later that evening. 

At this time, it is not clear whether the eagle pair has one chick or more. 

Staff said that as the chick or chicks grow and become more visible on camera, it will be easier to determine how many are in the nest.

Bald eagle chicks are completely helpless at birth, weighing only about 3 ounces—roughly the size of a deck of cards. Covered in light gray, fluffy down, the chicks rely on their parents for warmth and food. 

Typically, the female stays in the nest to keep the chick warm, while the male brings food for the first two weeks. After that, both adults take turns hunting.

The chicks grow quickly, gaining about 100 grams each day. By 21 days old, they will weigh nearly three pounds and reach about 60% of their adult size by late April or early May. 

During these first weeks, the eaglets will learn to take food from parents and move around the nest.

Residents can watch the eagles live at mndnr.gov/eaglecam or on the DNR’s YouTube page. The DNR encourages supporters to help fund the EagleCam through the Nongame Wildlife Fund during tax season or by donating online.

The DNR thanked the community for supporting the EagleCam and said they look forward to sharing the rest of the season’s progress. 

You can contribute to support the cam by donating to the Nongame Wildlife Fund tax checkoff when filing your state taxes or by giving online at mndnr.gov/donate.