Season 4 Review: Abby, Blaze, Fern and Thunder

Abby Chooses Blaze

For those of you deep-diving into Eagle Country’s journey or for those of you who clicked here on this update waiting with baited breath to see who Abby finally chose – we’ll cut to the chase!

ABBY CHOSE BLAZE!

Now, for more details…

We all came from Season 3 wondering how this season would unfold. As you may recall, (or if you don’t know, you can read about Season 3 here), Abby had many suitors that visited the nest and nest area. It became difficult to keep track of every eagle we saw. When this season began, viewers were naturally curious. Much to our delight, Abby appeared to pair with a male we eventually called Blaze for short.

Two adult bald eagles standing together in the nest at Eagle Country during nighttime observation
Two adult bald eagles perched at the Eagle Country nest with pine branches visible in daylight

Nest Building and Preparation

As it became clear that Blaze and Abby were a bonded pair, full nest activity followed: nest building, stick deliveries, and fluff were all brought in. We never tire of observing eagle instincts and the natural behaviors that can bring so much humor and entertainment!

In the midst of nest preparations, Blaze was seen with an injury to his left eye. Though the cause could not be confirmed, the injury healed over time, and in the live cams, it appeared he made a full recovery.

Eaglets and Fledging: Fern and Thunder

Two fluffy bald eagle chicks resting side by side in the Eagle Country nest during early morning observation
Two juvenile bald eagles perched side by side on a pine branch at Eagle Country, surrounded by green needles and blue sky

After a year without eaglets at Eagle Country, we were elated when Abby laid two eggs! Both she and Blaze were attentive and successful in incubating and Fern and Thunder hatched. It was intriguing to once again watch for all of the growth milestones, hear chirps, and see them grow so quickly.

Overall, this phase of the nesting season was full of cycles of feedings and rest, full crops and eventually “wingercizing.” We did not observe attempted nest takeovers or other near-tragic events with either Fern and Thunder or Abby and Blaze.

It was interesting and educational to watch this cycle of bald eagle life once again and appreciate it for all of its beauty and nuances.

Fern and Thunder each reached fledging in their own time. You can see specific dates and season stats on our live cams page.

Season Conclusions

Overall, Season 4 was full of these bald eagles moving through their natural rhythms and life patterns. We counted it a privilege to observe it up close and gain a “bird’s eye view” of nesting life. If you are new to Eagle Country, you can read about Eagle Country — and we’re truly glad you’re here!

You can also view season highlights on our EC YouTube and across our socials.