Hilton Head Island, September 2, 2025
News Summary
George and Gracie, a pair of bald eagles, have returned to their nesting site on Hilton Head Island for their 14th nesting season. They began the process by cleaning their nest and enhancing it with new materials. A new Land Trust Eagle Cam allows viewers to watch the couple as they prepare for the nesting season, promoting engagement and awareness for conservation efforts. Last season, they successfully raised two eaglets, demonstrating the importance of habitat preservation. The eagle cam has become popular, attracting millions of viewers over the past seasons.
Hilton Head Island
A popular pair of bald eagles, named George and Gracie, have officially returned to their nesting site on Hilton Head Island to begin their 2024-2025 nesting season. This marks the couple’s 14th nesting season together, following a successful previous season where they raised two eaglets.
The nesting season commenced this year with the first sighting of George and Gracie on August 17 at 6:58 a.m. As part of their annual “nestoration” process, the pair has started cleaning up their nest by removing old grass and adding new sticks.
The nest, located on private property, has been kept undisclosed to reduce human disturbances, as bald eagles are sensitive during the nesting period. To enhance public engagement, a new Land Trust Eagle Cam has been launched, allowing viewers to observe George and Gracie live as they prepare for the nesting season. The Land Trust is actively monitoring the nest while working diligently to preserve the habitat for future generations of eagles.
Highlights from the Previous Season
During the 2023-2024 nesting season, Gracie laid three eggs, successfully fledging two eaglets. Last season, the eaglets, identified as E1 and E2, were well-prepared for adulthood and were known to engage in the competitive behavior referred to as “bonking,” where they competed for food provided by their parents. The eaglets typically depend on their parents to tear up food for them until they reach about five weeks of age.
In line with their nurturing behavior, George and Gracie initiated a “food pantry” concept, saving part of a fish for the eaglets to eat shortly after they hatched. Looking ahead, the pair may lay their eggs earlier this season than last, where the eggs were laid in January. Typically, eaglets remain in the nest for about 10 weeks before they fledge and become independent.
Viewer Enthusiasm and Engagement
The eagle webcam has attracted significant attention, with around 1.7 million viewers tuning in over the past three seasons. Interested viewers can support the preservation projects financially, ensuring the ongoing protection and monitoring of the bald eagle habitat.
This engaging new venture highlights the ongoing efforts in conservation and brings the beauty of nature directly into homes, allowing enthusiasts and wildlife lovers a glimpse into the life of these magnificent creatures.
Conclusion
As the 2024-2025 nesting season unfolds on Hilton Head Island, the return of George and Gracie stands as a testament to the success of ongoing conservation efforts and the allure of wildlife watching. The opportunity to view their nesting journey not only entertains but also educates the public on the significance of preserving these iconic birds and their habitat.
FAQ
What is the significance of George and Gracie’s return?
The return of George and Gracie marks the beginning of their 14th nesting season, providing an opportunity for viewers to observe and learn about bald eagle behavior and nesting habits in real time.
How can I watch the live eagle cam?
Viewers can access the Land Trust Eagle Cam to watch George and Gracie prepare for the nesting season and raise their eaglets.
What should I expect in terms of eaglet development?
The eaglets will typically stay in the nest for about 10 weeks, during which time they will rely on their parents for food and care until they learn to fend for themselves.
How does the nesting season of bald eagles impact local conservation efforts?
The nesting season provides a valuable opportunity for awareness and fundraising efforts focused on the preservation of bald eagle habitats and the importance of wildlife conservation.
Key Features of George and Gracie’s Nesting Season
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Return Date | August 17, 2024 |
| Nesting Seasons Together | 14 |
| Previous Season Eggs | 3 eggs laid, 2 eaglets fledged |
| Typical Eaglet Stay in Nest | Approximately 10 weeks |
| Eagle Cam Viewers | 1.7 million viewers over 3 seasons |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Hurricane Helene: A Catastrophic Blow to the Southeastern U.S.
Thriving Eaglets on Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island Welcomes New Eaglet to Its Famous Family
Avian Influenza Outbreak Causes Egg Shortages Across U.S.
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Beaufort Honors Veterans and Launches New Baseball Team
Hilton Head Island Eagles Prepare for Hatching
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Hilton Head Island Bald Eagles Prepare for Nesting Season
- Wikipedia: Bald Eagle
- Island Packet: Bald Eagles on Hilton Head Island
- Google Search: Bald Eagles
- WLTX: HHI SC Eagle Nest Cam
- Google Scholar: Bald Eagle Nesting Behavior
- Mashable: Hurricane Ian Webcams
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Ian
- Mashable: Tropical Storm Debby Webcams
- Google News: Tropical Storm Debby
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
