Feb 1, 2022 - NCTC Update
Sadly another territorial dispute has occurred at this nest. At the end of January there was a mature adult female that dive bombed and attempted to land on the nest. Smitty was on the nest when this happened. Prior to this there were several incidents with juvenile(s), immature and mature adults harassing Bella and Smitty. Despite the intrusions Bella and Smitty appeared busy gearing up for egg laying and a busy nesting season. I recorded several videos on these events.
Sadly, on Feb 1, 2022, Bella landed on the nest with fresh and old blood smears and stains on her neck/head feathers. There appeared to be some older blood and scarred areas around Bella's right and left eye area. Despite Bella's horrible appearance she did appear to have pretty good mobility although we do not know the extent of her injuries. Bella has not been back to the nest since, which is cause for concern.
Feb 2, 2022
A new mature female has been visiting the nest and mating with Smitty. Smitty seems tolerant of the new female but displays reluctance too. The young female is readily recognizable as she has a few dark feathers blended in with her white tail feathers; she also has a bubble like ridge or bump on her beak near the cere/nare area.
It has been a sad few days at this nest and we all pray that Bella is healing and will return to reclaim her nest. God Speed Bella
Here are some pictures of Bella - Feb 1, 2022
Here is my video
Bella Returns with Blood Stained Head Neck Feathers - February 1, 2022 - NCTC Bald Eagles
https://youtu.be/k3GceHk5zok