On the morning of May 15, after observing that GH3 and GH4 were presenting with possible signs of illness, we immediately alerted Tamarack Wildlife Center’s Executive Director and Licensed Rehabilitator, Carol Holmgren, who is our rehabilitation partner for the Glen Hazel nest. Carol has been monitoring closely and also reaching out to other colleagues with expertise in the field. Expert eyes have been on GH3 and GH4, and are concerned. Bill Powers of PixCams was also alerted and the team immediately conferenced to discuss potential scenarios.

Clearly the eaglets have not been well; GH4 has sadly, now passed. There are several diseases and toxins that can result in similar signs, so testing would be needed to confirm the specific cause of the eaglet’s distress.  Due to their protected status, intervention at an eagles’ nest requires both State and Federal approval.  We are exploring whether Pennsylvania and Federal permission might be granted to recover GH4 from the nest for necropsy and/or pull GH3 from the nest for assessment and care, though Federal Wildlife Service policy states that permission is not granted for interference with the natural course of events at an eagle nest. Eagle nestlings do not always survive, and adults may also be injured or become ill through natural occurrences. We are also monitoring the adults closely. It has been noticed that Mom is spending more time than typical resting at the nest, and eating smaller bites than usual.