Southwest Florida Eagle Cam Returns With Better Technology for New Season

In early October, new tech upgrades mark the start of the 14th season at North Fort Myers' eagle nest. American Bald Eagles M15 and F23 have returned to Pritchett Farm, ready for the next chapter in their nesting story.

"There was a lot of uncertainty with the passing of the eaglets and the adults (maybe) getting the flu. We were holding our breath they would pull through," Virginia Pritchett-McSpadden, founder of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, said per Cape Coral Breeze. "To see them back at the nest and doing the restorations is pointing towards good signs."

The viewing system now boasts four cameras. A night-vision unit sits above the nest, while a second device captures side angles at nest level. The setup tracks every swoop and landing of these majestic birds.

Breaking new ground, a 360-degree camera now offers watchers full control of their view. This first-of-its-kind installation lets viewers track the eagles' movements from any angle. A fourth unit near a pond keeps watch over their hunting grounds.

This marks the third season for M15 and F23 as a pair. Their first year brought mixed results - one chick, E23, grew strong enough to fly, while its sibling's egg cracked too soon.

Tragedy struck last season. Both young ones, E24 and E25, fell ill from tainted prey. The bird flu claimed them just six weeks after they hatched.

"Now, we're seeing F23 learn to deal with things, survive, and hopefully thrive as a mom," Pritchett-McSpadden said.

Last year's technical issues, when F23's landing knocked a camera askew, have been fixed. "Our fingers are crossed that things will go according to plan," Pritchett-McSpadden added.

Starting this October, viewers worldwide can watch the eagles online. Thousands watch as these wild parents build their nest, tend their eggs, and raise their young until they take wing.