Bald Eagles

Both eagles vanished, E21 for nearly five days and E22 overnight. But both are now back in the nest.

On Monday, the eaglets, E21 and E22, stretched their wings and spent time on the branches outside the nest. They are preparing to fledge (or take their first flight).

Despite laws precluding the artificial feeding of bald eagles, and the fact that the nest is in private property, some people remain adamant that the birds need help.

A sign professing “We miss you Harriet" was placed Sunday on the fencing surrounding the horse pasture where the nesting tree is located along Bayshore Road.

An initial investigation into feeding activities involving the nest of breeding eagles Harriet and M15 along Bayshore Road was being conducted by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission.

Feeding eagles is prohibited under state and federal law. On Sunday, one person was seen placing something at the base of the tree, where two eaglets and male M15 remain after the female Harriet left.

The drama involving Harriet the eagle brings a warning for those trying to lure the bird back to her nest or care for her eaglets.

While Harriett is away, for whatever the reason, the male, M15, has been taking care of the two eaglets born weeks ago, E21 and E22. He has been feeding them and defended the nest from a larger, female eagle who tried to intrude.

Cameras have watched the North Fort Myers eagle nest for 12 years.

Ozzie and Harriet made the nest their home every year from fall to spring beginning in 2006. After Ozzie died in 2015. Harriet bonded with M15. Online cameras have watched the nest for 12 years

The bald eagle population is increasing in Florida, which continues to be one of the top spots in the lower 48 states for bald eagles to nest and raise…