FOLSOM – The bald eagle pair at Lake Natoma has reportedly lost its recently hatched eaglets, according to an update shared by Friends of Lakes Folsom and Natoma based on field observations at the nest site.
The group said the conclusion was drawn from reports by two professional photographers who regularly monitor the nest and spent several hours observing activity.
“Based on their very good observations, the professional photographers stated they were out at the nest site for 5-6 hours and did not see any feeding of the eaglets nor did they see any brooding by any parent to make sure the eaglets were warm and dry,” the organization shared.
The report noted that both adult eagles were seen perched below the nest during that time, which differs from typical behavior when eaglets are present.
“Normally, one parent would be in the nest with the eaglets and would feed on a regular basis,” the group continued. “They would never leave the eaglets alone but the photographers said both Eagles were seen perching below the nest. No little heads were seen bobbing up and down in the nest either.”
“Based on this reporting, we must conclude the eaglets have passed,” the group shared.
The update follows a sequence of events that has been closely followed by the community over recent months at Lake Natoma.
Earlier this season, the pair lost their longtime nest when the tree supporting it fell during overnight storms. The structure had been built over multiple years and was a known viewing point for visitors along the shoreline.
Following the tree fall, observers documented the pair constructing a new nest in a nearby tree. According to FOLFAN, the eagles rebuilt the nest quickly, and eggs were laid at the end of February.
The group noted that eaglets were later observed in early April.
“Shortly after they were done, the eggs were laid at the end of February,” they shared. “It was so awesome to see how both Eagles would look down at their newly hatched Eaglets in early April.”
The cause of the eaglets’ deaths has not been determined.
FOLFAN’s update noted that such losses are not uncommon in the wild.
“Please know this is not uncommon. Studies indicate that 70% of Eaglets/Fledglings/Juveniles do not survive their first year. This is nature,” the statement said.
The statement also described observations of the adult eagles’ behavior following the loss.
FOLFAN volunteers will continue to monitor the pair and encouraged the public to recognize that wildlife outcomes can vary from season to season.
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