It’s that time of the year…on Sunday Jackie and Shadow celebrated the season with a little ‘nooky’ on the Lookout Snag! – They didn’t actually make a full connection, so it was only a ‘mating attempt,’ but that didn’t stop either of them from singing out an announcement to the neighborhood about it.
Later that afternoon, Jackie flew in to check on the nest and was soon joined by Shadow with a small stick. Jackie took the stick to put it where it belonged…and then Shadow moved it to where it really belonged…and then a few more sticks moved back and forth as Jackie and Shadow each had their own ideas about where they should be.
Both Jackie and Shadow had such big crops full of dinner they had a little trouble moving around the nest. So, finally, they just stood shoulder-to-shoulder, each watching out over the neighborhood.
Before bedtime, Shadow settled into the nest bowl, making sure it was right for him, too, and not just Jackie. Jackie gave her approval with a little nibble on his forehead. She headed out first and they met up again at their favorite roost tree for the night.
Jackie was first to arrive on Christmas Eve and had already settled onto the front side porch by the time Shadow showed up. She soon hopped back into the nest to join him…and a lot of bumping and grinding ensued as they made their way around each other, moving sticks and aerating the nest bowl. Then…
…Jackie did a slow, sneaky, back of the head attack to get some little beaky kissing going! And it worked! Jackie looked quite proud of herself for that clever maneuver. Who knew she was as mischievous as Shadow!?
When it started sprinkling with a bit of hail, Shadow took off for better shelter. Jackie spent another hour at the nest, perhaps thinking it was time to build up her tolerance for sitting through bad weather.
As Jackie and Shadow continue preparing for nesting season, we wish all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Sandy

PS. Even though the Bald Eagle has been on the Great Seal of the US, it was not officially our National Bird until Dec 24, 2024. Jackie and Shadow are now official!

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