When we think of birds nesting, springtime comes to mind. However, some remarkable bird species—especially large raptors—choose winter to lay their eggs. Eagles and owls, despite the harsh conditions, have adapted their nesting strategies to thrive in cold environments. This article explores why these birds nest in winter, how they care for their young, and what we can learn from their fascinating behaviors.
Why Do Some Birds Nest in Winter?
While many birds migrate to warmer climates to breed, species like bald eagles and owls take advantage of winter conditions to ensure their offspring have the best possible start. There are several key reasons why these birds opt for cold-weather nesting:
- Extended Growth Period – Larger birds like eagles and owls take longer to mature. By nesting in winter, their young have more time to grow and develop before the food-rich summer months.
- Less Competition – By laying eggs in winter, these birds avoid competing with other species that nest in spring.
- Predator Avoidance – With fewer active predators in winter, eagle and owl nests are less likely to be disturbed.
Eagles: Masters of Winter Nesting
Bald Eagles and Their Impressive Nests
Bald eagles, especially those in the Midwest and California, begin their nesting process as early as January. These magnificent birds are known for their gigantic nests, which can reach up to 9.5 feet wide and 20 feet deep—one such nest even made it into the Guinness Book of World Records!
Eagle Parenting: A Team Effort
- Eagles mate for life, though occasionally, a partner will be replaced due to loss or other reasons.
- Both male and female eagles participate in incubating eggs, hunting, and guarding the nest.
- A typical bald eagle clutch consists of two to three eggs, with three being rarer.
- Eggs are incubated for about 35 days before hatching.
Challenges of Winter Nesting
Although cold temperatures might seem like a major threat, it’s actually warm early springs that can pose the biggest problem. In years where spring arrives early, excessive heat and bugs can make survival more difficult for eaglets. One recorded instance at the Decorah Eagle Cam showed eaglets struggling due to an influx of insects, leading to a rescue intervention.
Owls: Secretive Winter Nesters
Where Do Owls Nest?
Unlike eagles, owls prefer more concealed locations for their nests. They often nest in:
- Tree snags (broken-off tree trunks with a hollowed center)
- Large holes in trees, sometimes abandoned by other animals
- Man-made nest boxes, when available
Great horned owls and barred owls are two common species that lay eggs in winter, typically from late February to April, depending on location.
Owl Parenting and Development
- Female owls do most of the incubating while males hunt for food.
- Owlets are covered in white down and rely entirely on their parents for warmth and food.
- After about four to five weeks, young owls begin to peek out from the nest and might even start exploring nearby branches.
Finding an Owl Nest
If you want to spot an owl’s nest, look for these signs:
- Owl pellets (regurgitated fur and bones) at the base of trees
- Distinctive owl calls, such as the barred owl’s “Who cooks for you?”
- Repeated visits to a particular tree cavity by an adult owl
Lessons from Winter Nesting Birds
Observing these birds through live cams or in nature teaches us important lessons:
- Adaptation Is Key – Eagles and owls show us how survival depends on adjusting to one’s environment.
- Parenting Takes Effort – Both species work hard to ensure their young survive, balancing protection and nourishment.
- Nature Has Its Own Rules – Not all eaglets or owlets survive, and sometimes only the strongest make it to adulthood.
If you’re interested in watching these magnificent birds, check out live eagle and owl cams, such as the famous Decorah Eagle Cam.
Conclusion
Winter may seem like an unlikely time for birds to nest, but for eagles and owls, it’s the perfect season. Their resilience, adaptability, and dedication to their young make them truly remarkable. If you have the chance, take some time to watch these birds in action—it’s a fascinating glimpse into the wonders of the natural world.
https://www.raptorresource.org/birdcams