They carry fish back to the nest, tear off bits with their beaks and place the food in the chicks' beaks. Eggs and chicks are vulnerable to the effects of severe weather and predation from great horned owls, ravens and raccoons. When three months old, the young eagles are able to fly. As they grow larger, they spend a lot of time exercising and flapping their wings as they venture from the nest to walk along nearby branches. Flying is instinctive.
Landing requires practice.
For several weeks, they stay near the nest site and the adults as they become familiar with the area and how to find food. Revised May 7, 2001.