Big Bear Eagle Cam ~ Banding Day For Stormy ~ Triple B's Body Is Removed 3.28.18

This afternoon, several biologists including Pete Bloom were at the Big Bear nest along with tree climber & bander Joe Papp to band Stormy. The nest is up 150' in a tree on National Forest Land. Banding provides extremely useful information in the tracking of the eagle in migration, nesting and if ever found injured or killed. Stormy received two leg bands - one silver for the Fish & Wildlife and the other a purple band to help with visual identification from a distance. Measurements were taken to determine the gender of Stormy but not blood. Dr. Pete Bloom, Biologist uses feather length in his calculations for determining the sex. The body of Triple B. was picked up and put in a bag. Joe Papp dropped Triple B's body on his way down - listen closely to the words spoken at the end of the video at the 22:26 mark saying "unfortunately I think it fell out". As soon as information is released I will update everyone. Otherwise, the banding was very successful and the parents are in the nest tree. Stormy is 45 days old. Thank you for watching!
Video captured & edited by Lady Hawk
Big Bear eagle cam is located in Big Bear Lake, California. Watch live: • Big Bear Bald Eagle Cam
This camera is provided by The Friends of Big Bear Valley. Learn more about them at friendsofbigbearvalley.org/.

[@ladyhawk]

Update from the Friends of Big Bear Valley & Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam 6:30pm 3.28.18 "Here's an update about today's effort to band Stormy. We know that there was a lot of concern and we all took a collective sigh of relief when it was over. We recognize and understand that some people don't agree with the approach. Banding and collecting BBB, the deceased chick, are part of an ongoing research effort on eagles throughout California. There's always a risk when handling wild animals but the biologist who climbed the tree has banded over 1500 eagles and over 17,000 raptors - his experience is topnotch. We gathered some interesting information. Both chicks are male. The nest measures about 6' across and about 4' thick. Mr. B returned to the nest tree about 45 minutes after the climber left the nest. He perched out of view of the camera but was present when the team of biologists left the site. One thing that didn't go quite as planned was the retrieval of BBB. The plan was for the body to be put inside a bag and put inside the climber's shirt to be carried down. Unfortunately, BBB was larger than expected and it would have been unsafe for the climber to carry him down. So, as some of you noticed, BBB's body was dropped from the tree. That wasn't the plan and everybody on site felt bad about it. The nest is 120' up in a tree and it was extremely rigorous to climb that tree so safety of the climber and the birds is extremely important. To keep the disturbance to the nest and eagles, the climber was not able to safely clean the camera lens. He did search for fishing line and trash but there was none anywhere to be seen. We are grateful to the biologists who go all over the southwest to learn more about raptors - the decades of work by this team has contributed enormously to conservation of raptors and the recovery of bald eagles in California. We were impressed by the care and passion the biologists have for these amazing creatures."

[@Samantha-lynn1980]

Lady Hawk what about towards the end of the video what joe was saying about BBB

[@bzee3951]

Lady Hawk Thank you for the update! Stormy is a boy! :)

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

Thanks, Lady Hawk!! Stormy lil man. I saw both parents back at the nest about an hour ago, now mom is tucked in for the night with her Stormy under her....well as much as possible.

[@jeangibbs2686]

Lady Hawk I

[@TomSawyerEaglePro]

Awesome update Lady Hawk! I'm thrilled they removed BBB's body and banded Stormy😄.

[@sixtoibarra5807]

No complaints here this men is risking his life so we can all have the privilege to keep watching this beautiful birds.

[@suzannekerr3074]

In all my 72 years I have never seen anything as amazing as that banding. It couldn't have gone better..I turned things back on and saw a hand come up and a head pop up on the side of the tree. Couldn't believe what I was seeing. Joe was absolutely fantastic with Stormy, so kind and gentle with his talking to him or her. Haven't seen the parents return yet to the nest and was wondering when they might decide to show back up. Poor thing has been there by himself and been through a lot without them there, wonder what he's thinking! Thanks for sharing about what happened this afternoon, so greatly appreciated!

[@cindydupont8201]

Thank you, Lady Hawk for capturing this for us. Poor Stormy was confused but Joe was so gentle with them. He did his best in removing BBB but his main concern was not upsetting Stormy anymore than necessary.

[@ladyhawk]

Hi Cindy - you are welcome! The banding was supposed to be this Monday so I am glad I was available to capture this special moment. I think Joe Papp did a very good job and it was a successful banding.

[@karenblanck7726]

Why do I continue to be amazed at the size of these “babies” whenever I see them up next to a human. Stormy is already a very impressive size hasn’t he!

[@deenanskipful]

My heart was throbbing so fast and I cried when he collected Triple B’s remains. Man Stormy is gonna be a fighter I can see it already. This nest has been fighting so hard from the blue line to BBB’s passing. I am thankful mama was flying keeping a watchful eye on her baby.

[@vicki1007]

Thank you Lady Hawk for the video and the follow up information. I think some people need to get their hearing checked? What you quoted him saying was very easy to hear. I wouldn't have known what happened to BBB's body without your video and it really eased my mind.

[@nancyj5562]

What a HERO Lady Hawk!!! It was OBVIOUSLY not this man's first rodeo at banding or climbing!! Thank you for all your descriptive words letting us know what happened. I'm so glad they removed the body....These biologists are absolutely AMAZING!!! Like you said banding is soooo important to keep track of these raptors. Stormy handled it well. God bless this man and this team!!! Love to all our eagle lovers. Stormy will survive and thrive!!! Thank you so much Lady Hawk!!!

[@pattyrhodenizer4716]

Poor baby he is probably so scared but he’s doing good. Awww, Stormy is saying, what are you doing to me? My mom and dad don’t do this to me. He’s hitting him with his wing. That’s so cute. He’s saying leave me alone. Ty.

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

Stormy bit him too..lol

[@cheongyei]

He stayed right there without moving the whole time the biologist descended the tree, LOL. Stormy had a nice meal later, fed by both parents, and curled up with mom on the nest for the night. He is looking dapper in his black tuxedo now that his baby gray has fluffed off in the breeze.

[@rebeccajosteelman563]

Great work, Lady Hawk, thank you. Joe is amazing ~ going up to Big Bear soon on a Sunday to meet with the volunteers with the scope. I'm an artist, having done some drawings/paintings of eagles, and getting any photos I can with blessings shall be splendid. Been keeping watch on these beautiful eagles.

[@dianecoats4746]

Exceptional footage and an incredible job of banding. Even my canaries bite me when I band them and it's a lot less traumatic and scarry.

[@xiomy782000]

Wow! Amazing! The fact that this man climbed 150 feet to a tree in the name of biology for the preservation of the species is fascinating! I am so happy to know stormy is a male, he is so majestic!

[@tammic.a.t.crazyaunttammi9275]

This is the first time I've seen this and I have to say I'm amazed at the concern and love that was shown towards Stormy. Thank you to everyone who helped to make this possible

[@tammic.a.t.crazyaunttammi9275]

Lady Hawk, thank you so very much for always providing such great educational information for all of us!! You are awesome!! So is the rest of the FOBBV family and others that help give us videos and info

[@loveofeagles003]

I'm always amazed at the size of the Eaglet on the nest. I noticed a very large dark shadow fly over and I hear mon & dad vocals. Glad they came back relatively quick. Stressful for them.

[@pidge1029]

I just happened to check in and saw Joe’s head pop over the nest. It startled me. 😆 First time to see a banding. Very cool. Glad but sad to see BBB removed.

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

Yep same here...talk about perfect timing. Interesting to see a live real time banding. Boy I was holding my breath with Stormy backing up I thought he/she was going to tumble backward.

[@susankane1312]

Why is his banded? Stormy that is...

[@rb032682]

Thanks for making this clip. I wanted to see BBB removed, he/she and the nest are larger than I had perceived. So glad BBB wasn't cannibalized.

[@negretelove2802]

Amazing! Thank you so much for taking the time to share and educate.

[@jwilson2042]

Poor Stormy, so stressed as didn’t know what was happening, but so necessary to keep track of these beautiful creatures. And complete kudos to the climber, what an amazing and gentle man. Superb thing to watch.

[@user-ti4iz8qj8m]

This young Eagle is alive! I'm happy. Thank you Lady Hawk and everyone for this wonderful video:-)💞😇👍

[@sararosati4130]

Poor Stormy I am sure he was so scared. I can hear the parents. I think it would be scarey for these doctors too. But for good reasons for why they are up so high. Talked to the baby so soft. Awww Stormy its ok. Thank you Lady Hawk. Hope they find the remains of BBB.

[@rjax6776]

TY LadyHawk for capturing this momentous event in Stormy's life. He sure was courageous! He mantled and yelled at the intruder and acted like a very brave little eaglet. He kept moving further away and I was concerned that if he lost his footing, he might fall. But after the climber got hold of him that thought became unwarranted. I like the way the bander calmed Stormy before letting him loose to make sure he didn't accidentally fall from the nest. He was very gentle with the eaglet. I'm so glad BBB was removed from the nest. I also missed whether the parents fed Stormy tonight before bedtime. Did you happen to see? TY so much for all you do to promote eagles, LadyHawk. I have enormous respect for you and all the work you do!!!

[@ladyhawk]

Hi R Jax yes I was watching & recorded Dad coming back to the nest and gave Stormy a long feeding. Mom came at the end and took over and kept feeding him - but Stormy was full and tired poor little guy!!He went to sleep in the center of the nest. Mom is with him tonight.Thank you so much - it was a very busy day for me with the SW eaglets and BB today!!

[@rjax6776]

TY for responding to my question concerning whether Stormy was fed. I just remember Romeo and Juliet stayed away from the nest all day night when Peace was rescued from the NEFL nest last year. Hope was all alone. A fish was left on the nest for Hope and she had to self-feed for the first time. Romeo hardly returned to the nest for the remainder of the season. I am so glad to hear both parents returned and both parents took care of Stormy. I have visited the nest tonight and saw Mom with him. All's well in the nest tonight, thank God!

[@nonik5161]

Oh Dear Stormy ❤️ You are such a handsome baby eagle🦅 and with all that you’ve been through, you’ll have a lot of strength n love n lessons to pass on to your offspring down the spike ! Love you sweet baby 😘 n Thx LadyHawk

[@Birdie-uk5pg]

Nice to see Stormy banded, and fishing line removed, what was left. But sad to see BBB body removed, had to be just brought back memories. The man that did the banding was gentle considering the obstacles he had to overcome. Overall a great video. Thanks alot🦅

[@estherbernhardt5810]

Hi Lady Hawk, I just watched your old video of Stormy's banding. Seems like it was yesterday I remember it so well. That was the year (2018) that I started watching Mr. B and Jackie at the Big Bear nest. Poor BBB......that was so sad. The storm that month was awful! So much has happen at that nest since then! Thank you for the memories. Some are very sad, but others are very exciting and full of so much joy! :) Thank you!

[@kathleenmccaffery1313]

Thank you Joe.. You were incredibly considerate and professional in this share. This was a difficult task.. No one could have done a better job! 👏❤️🤗

[@evaandersen3450]

You all involved with these beautiful birds are amazing by teaching and showing what a fantastic world it is for the Eagles and the care and love you have for them. I truly love them and am happy to see them up close on my computer screen and I have learned a ton from you Lady Hawk and others in the Eagle world. Everything you all do is very appreciated. Thank You! ❤️🦅❤️

[@ladyhawk]

Hi Eva - it is a tremendous opportunity to learn - especially watching the bandings from different nests. Thank you for your kind words - it is greatly appreciated!! ♥

[@naturebird9177]

You were a very brave eagle Stormy💙 I wish they could have covered his eyes so he wouldn't have been so scared.

[@margaretwilliams2929]

Thank you for posting this. Both Joe and Stormy were impressive! It was a very interesting procedure. It was a nail biting experience to watch because I didn’t want either to fall (I don’t like heights even on video!).

[@bettyvanhouten2471]

Bless triple BBBs little heart but I am so glad for both Triple BBB and STORMY they got him / her out of the nest

[@AnaMaria4098]

Did I hear a parent or two vocalizing and doing flyovers? I was expecting one of them to attack this brave man's unprotected head! Thanks Lady Hawk, very interesting! ❤

[@ladyhawk]

Yes Anamaria - most likely it was Mrs. B as she was with Stormy right before the tree climber came up to the nest. It is possible for an eagle to come back and swoop low on the nest - it was unusual to see the man not wear a helmet. I know in some falcon nests with banding it is a requirement for safety as they have actually been attacked and been injured by a parent.

[@jaanfo3874]

Today the Friends of Big Bear shared photos taken of the banding from the ground. The parents were perched in the adjacent tree during the process while a juvenile (approx 4 years old) was doing flybys, presumably investigating the commotion.

[@nfermaintt78]

Jaanfothe can you share the link to see the pictures? Thank you 😊

[@jaanfo3874]

facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1914631601912566.1073741836.705508029491602&type=3 I hope you either have Facebook or can view them without. No idea if they're posted anywhere else public.

[@nfermaintt78]

Jaanfo Once again Thank you 😊

[@TomSawyerEaglePro]

What a good day for the Big Bear family! I love these bandings and wish they could all be banded. I think a human would think twice about harming a banded Eagle and banding also provides a host of useful relevant data for the future. Always feel bad for the parents though as they're terrified vocals are heard but at least it goes quick and everyone's back to normal soon after. Very pleased he removed BBB's body, smart move. The parents can move on, Stormy and us viewers now😊. I heard the last communication and can see how some mistook what was said but one thing is for sure, that Eaglet was not alive after 6 days of not moving or eating. BBB was smack in the middle of his asymptotic pattern of growth so he would need food constantly and 6 days without it is pretty much impossible he could still be alive plus had he been alive we would've seen movement of some type. Great coverage here Lady Hawk! SEDs🌙❤

[@bzee3951]

I was also wondering was it too soon to remove BBB's little corpse? Stormy still cuddled with BBB and it all happened recently. Glad it's over with for little Stormy.

[@Mommabird-de5lq]

Brenda Zepeda - You know these people know what they are doing. I am NOT a biologist, therefore I will not question their judgement!!!!😒

[@bzee3951]

True. This is is my first eagle family I started watching and learning from. BBB was my first tragedy to watch live. I'm happy Stormy is doing great and growing up to be a gorgeous strong male eagle. I can't wait to see him fledge. Thank you LH for teaching us. I've learned so much from you! Eagles are amazing and so tough!!

[@tlims1974a]

Did they ever find out what happened to the eaglet that died. So sad, but what an amazing group who help these eagles. 🦅❤️

[@jjfaris]

Interesting to watch. No helmet surprised me. I am guessing this must not be an easy nest to access as one arm was around one limb for support and balance. 150ft up. no way, no how for this old girl. Thank you LadyHawk.

[@lilacbirman]

I just found this and it's amazing work!

[@MarleyCarl]

Is that the parents vocals you can occasionally hear in the background?

[@ladyhawk]

Yes it is Marley. They stay close by and do fly overs during the banding.

[@lisaschwall2950]

This is a fascinating video! Very scary too! When I read the info, and realized the biologist knows what he’s doing after thousands of bandings, it was easier to watch. Stormy didn’t seem to be too upset until near the end. I could hear Mom or Dad were around, yet Stormy didn’t cry out too much. Funny though at the end, winging the man and then a bite, but overall a great job by the man to keep Stormy as calm as possible! ‼️❤️🦅❤️‼️

[@lisanerox]

Must have been terrifying for Stormy. He must be really sad too not being able to lean on his sibling for comfort anymore.

[@Summerbrezze]

I happened to view this live. I was afraid Stormy was going to fall.

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

I turned it on to check on Stormy and saw the man just reaching the nest and was like "what!" then I remembered the banding. I was so scared watching. Even after he left poor Stormy perched up on the side of the edge of the nest watching and scared.

[@mariannemorrison3193]

The climber and bander is no spring chicken. Bless him for the work he does, whether I agree or not this dangerous and tough work !

[@gmailcgs]

This old man is doing this by himself 120 feet in the air. That is dedication and sacrifice.

[@lhettmattis2703]

Did Mr Pap able to find BBB's body when he made it down to the ground ? The job is success and thanks to Mr Joe Pap for his efforts and wonderful work for us to see the works of banding of eagles. And thank you also for sharing this educational video of our nature Lady Hawk.

[@Samantha-lynn1980]

I am glad I had Kleenex’s beside me while watching this. I cried because stormy was scared and thought that joe was going to kill him. I kept thinking to myself, it’s ok stormy he is not going to hurt you. Poor baby and momma not there to protect them. I know that it’s Mother Nature and for joes sake I’m glad she wasn’t, haha

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

I'm a big baby, because SAME HERE.

[@cheongyei]

It's good that mama didn't try to help, safer just with Stormy and Joe.

[@JenuineAirbrushTan]

Wow! That man is incredible. So calm, no gloves and if I were in danger I’d want that guy to show up. Human intervention for good. So sad about that little eaglet. 💔

[@sharonslater2186]

I was watching and I was afraid for stormy thought that poor eagle was going to fall out of the nest, glad everything went ok...

[@franceshenry2239]

I think I held my breath till it was over,if that was possible. Thanks.

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

I was not at ease until both Mama and Dad came back to the nest even though I heard their big mouths off camera..lol

[@rb032682]

It would have been nice if they had also put a windscreen on the microphone. I gotta hand it to that old guy, I would have had a heart attack before I even got up to the nest. He must be younger than I am. :-)

[@johaharmon]

I think he said “unfortunately, I think it hit a rock” when he was updating the crew that he needed to drop BBB’s body for his own safety. Certainly wasn’t his first choice. Unbelievably impressed with his efforts! Stormy was impressive too!

[@koalaranian]

I'm glad Stormy didn't decide bail out of there!

[@KKBP-lz7wd]

LadyHawk - I recently started watching this nest and like your summary very much. Some questions, please. Who are the parents of Storm? When did they leave this nest? When did the current tenants in 2024, Jackie and Shadow, take over this nest? Thanks.

[@ladyhawk]

Hello KKBP thanks for your questions! Jackie was with her mate Mr. BB prior to Shadow. We called her Mrs BB and her mate Mr BB. Jackie laid two eggs in 2018 season and two chicks hatched - Triple B or Baby Big Bear and Stormy. Due to a terrible storm, Triple B did not survive and perished. After Stormy fledged, Mr BB came less to the nest and at the same time, Shadow showed up. This male intruder refused to leave the area and nest no matter how much Jackie and Mr B and even Stormy tried to chase him away! Shadow brought in sticks to the nest and hung out like it was his home. We don't know what happened to Mr BB - he just stopped coming to the nest. Thus, Shadow a young 3.5 year old sub adult became a mate to Jackie and in March of 2019 she laid two eggs - which hatched as Simba and Cookie. Cookie passed away due to hypothermia in May from a late season snow storm. Simba fledged successfully. So Jackie and Shadow have now been together 6 years this summer!

[@KKBP-lz7wd]

@@ladyhawk Thank you so much for the answers. I'm following Jackie and Shadow as much as possible; but I feel terrible for them going through this late winter storm and their eggs not hatching. Thanks again.

[@diannenaworensky6698]

Lady Hawk, I hope they were able to retrieve BBB remains. Can they do testing on him at this stage to tell what he actually died from? I do believe that the banding is needed. Do all states do this and why would they not? Thanks again for the videos!

[@ladyhawk]

I am not sure how much they will be able to determine at this point with Triple B passing away a week ago and decomposition setting in and then being dropped 120 feet to the ground :( I have not heard anything. The banding has nothing to do with states - it is for organizations that provide research on the eagles - certain permits need to be ascertained by Fish and Wildlife.

[@kurosakamiwako8663]

For Stomy, this is the most surprised experienced ! I hope that Stomy would not hate human because of this experience!

[@Mommabird-de5lq]

Kurosaka黒坂Miwako三和子 - We don't want eaglets to be comfortable around humans. That's why as little handling as possible is necessary. They are "wild" birds & should stay wild. If an eagle is found it should "NOT" be handled! Call for help & let the experts take care of the situation.

[@mariannemorrison3193]

Be brave little Stormy!

[@jayvallandingham2406]

You can hear the parents in the background were pretty pissed!!

[@josi4251]

Poor Stormy! He was a good boy. Most animals hate being handled by strangers, and he won't have to endure that ever again, with any luck!

[@mangaanimefan3089]

Boy, were Stormy's parents mad! It is surprising that he wasn't wearing a helmet. I thought one of them was going to dive-bomb his head for sure! And you can tell him to relax as much as you like Dr., it doesn't mean he's going to when there's a big strange creature in his nest grabbing at him!

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

They were circling and calling out ...amazing to witness.

[@jeanniegriffin1692]

Yes, I have been keeping track of these little guys and I didn't see the action taken by the biologist- and I was deeply concerned because the parents were MIA for hours, and when I came on board to check in after he had left-- I only heard noise from below- so I am relieved to see that the parents are back. It just seems like a violation- and I'm here everyday voyering on this nest- kinda weird in a way. Stormy looks healthy and he's gonna be big and beautiful.

[@ladyhawk]

Hi Jeannie - the parents were very close during the entire banding process and even doing fly overs. They were photographed in a tree next to the nest tree the entire time and they returned to the nest tree right after the banding but we could not see them from the cam. Vocals were heard. Stormy is doing great and is growing fast!! Started to do a little self feeding today!!

[@pamchristensen4748]

I haven't watched this nest, so am wondering what happened to BBB and how long since he passed? Or was it just noticed that he wasn't moving?? Poor baby... Hope the best for Stormy!!

[@ladyhawk]

Hi Pam - About 6 days ago - Big Bear had been having very bad weather with freezing rain and wind for 4 days straight. It appears the Triple B passed away from hypothermia on 3.23.18 early in the morning - sometime after midnight. We noticed he was not moving when Mom got up on 3.23.18. It was very sad to lose this eaglet. Stormy is doing great and I hope we see him fledge!

[@pamchristensen4748]

THANKS Lady Hawk for your reply! This is so sad, especially for those devoted nest watchers! I'm a regular with H & M and E10 & 11 beginning last year with E9. I would be so heartbroken if something happens to one of them! I know it's all part of mother nature, but it still hurts! Again, thanks!! And thanks for all your videos with the Pritchetts nest in FL!!

[@cdzlink7115]

That was hard to watch. I hope the trauma caused to the eaglet was worth it.

[@djr6876]

Will autopsy be performed to determine cause of death?

[@ladyhawk]

If they decide to do a necropsy - unfortunately it will not be able to show cause of death. It needs to be done fairly quickly after death for accurate results. They may test the blood for any contaminants but the cause of death most likely is hypothermia and that won't show up on a necropsy.

[@annieoakslee3908]

Are they planning on doing a necrospy on bbb?

[@ladyhawk]

Most likely yes - but not sure how much they will be able to learn from it. Necropsy should be done no later than 24 hours after death to determine cause of death.

[@diannenaworensky6698]

I miss this "little" guy. 🦅♥️🦅

[@claudialuna7898]

Lady Hawk why they don't do this to Harriet and M15 eagles ? Thank you

[@ladyhawk]

They do not band eagles on private land. Permits must be given and only in the case of organizations that are research oriented such as Raptor Resource RRP.

[@claudialuna7898]

Ohh, thanks for answering and for the great videos Lady Hawk😀

[@MsSuprfly]

Lady Hawk Im taken back at the end of this video you can hear Joe call out to Jackie once he was down from nest and his words were " i had to drop the bird, unfortunately i think its still alive!!".... Oh my G . this is disastrous.. Im horrifed along with already heartbroken with Triple B.

[@ladyhawk]

Hi Terra - that is not what he said. He said Unfortunately I think it fell out. He had to drop Triple B in order to get down safely. Triple B was not alive. Please read my pinned comment at the top of the page.

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

THank you, LH! I was so upset when I read comments of people posting that BBB was still alive.

[@melodiestewart6877]

I wonder how those young birds survive without water

[@reginabundy5139]

That's cute stormy slapping at him

[@cherryl225]

it was sad to see BBB go, had a moment of silence for him, but i had a good chuckle at all those wing slaps and felt concerned for the old man the way his poop shooter was ponited, hahaha.

[@birb7866]

Also, i'm surprised the baby doesn't attempt to bite him?

[@ladyhawk]

Watch again Grammar - Stormy bites him on the hand after he put Triple B in the bag! Wing slaps and bites!

[@bzee3951]

Have the parents been back to the nest since the banding earlier? Has Stormy been fed? I noticed he referred to Stormy as a male. Is it confirmed Stormy is a male not a female?

[@ladyhawk]

Hi Brenda - yes both parents are in the nest tree but have not returned to the nest yet. Stormy was fed prior to the banding. We don't have confirmation yet on the gender of Stormy but I will update everyone as soon as that information is given.

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

Good I was worried I haven't seen them back at the nest since the banding and it's getting dark soon. :( Stormy gave him a nice bite too!! lol

[@luvflyball]

Dad came back to the nest and was feeding Stormy @ 6:25 California time. Mom returned a few minutes ago.

[@bzee3951]

Niki That's right she did give a bite. He was gentle with Stormy and it didn't take too long. She is tough. She was slapping with her wing too. Sorry I refer to Stormy as a she. I hope we find out soon...boy or girl. :-)

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

LH update: "both chicks are males" - Stormy is a he!

[@eileensecrest2185]

Where are Jackie and Shadow? Seems like they would be swooping and attacking Joe Papp. Im glad they arent banding any more.

[@christinaciano1445]

While I hope a baby never has to be removed from the nest again, I hope it can be a learning experience. Perhaps a bag with a clip of some sort so the bag could have been clipped to his belt. It was heartbreaking to see BBB dropped.

[@ladyhawk]

Yes it was Christina. :(

[@maryannangst2004]

He is so big! Just seeing him get bigger makes me want to cry. It makes me realize why parents don't like thier kids growing up. A bit confused about why Triple B's body had to be removed. Shouldn't it stay there to comfort Stormy?

[@dianecoats4746]

I would imagine as the days get warmer BBB's dead body could become a health hazard to Stormy

[@ladyhawk]

Hi Mary Ann - they wanted to remove the body to see if they can learn anything in regards to his death even though that may prove difficult. They will do a necropsy on it. Also, you must remember the young school children of the Friends of Big Bear watch this cam and were unable to with Triple B's dead body on it. All eaglets that die on a nest that can be removed safety would be beneficial to learn as much as we can as to why they die prematurely. To leave it there to be consumed would serve no purpose.

[@ladyhawk]

No because they did not go in to remove the body, they only removed it when they went in for banding. If there was no banding, they would have left it on the nest.

[@maryannangst2004]

Thanks Lady Hawk! I am still learning!

[@charzpak7173]

She said, get off me!!!

[@jagriggle1662]

Was Stormy male or female?

[@birb7866]

Will you tell us gender once you know?

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

yes please! Stormy is fits either but it would be nice to know.

[@ladyhawk]

Both Stormy and Triple B were males

[@mahanhthr]

Isn’t that dangerous to Stormy to do that at his age? I understand doing it, but what if he got spooked that high up and fell? I don’t know, I get it, but, man, that’s high up for a young bird. Isn’t it? It is interesting though.

[@ladyhawk]

Hi Tomahawkjack - this is the best possible age to band an eaglet. The leg is fully grown so the band will fit properly. You do not want to band an eaglet any older than this because of the possibility of them trying to fly/jump from the nest. At this age they are not likely to attempt it. The bander is skilled in the method of capturing the chick re the leg instrument. There are other methods to use too - I have seen some sit very quietly in the nest and then gently grab a leg with their hands too. It is amazing to watch all the bandings as they vary considerably from nest to nest!

[@AnaMaria4098]

Tomahawkjack I was thinking the same thing - she was scared and moved so close to the edge. She could have spooked and jumped to get away from him...but these guys must know what they're doing. Very interesting I do agree.

[@bzee3951]

Lady Hawk Thank you. It all seemed to go well. Jackie was very vocal. Parents were alarmed.

[@Myers728]

I’ve not been up to date recently but can someone tell me how BBB died? Poor babe.

[@ladyhawk]

Hi Myers728 - the weather was terrible for 4 days with freezing rain & blistery winds. It is believed that Triple B died of hypothermia - both could not fit under Mom. Very tragic for the baby.

[@mikeroberts7775]

Put the tools used on colour coded tethers so the person doing the banding does not have to mess about looking for the tools in the first place and does not have to worry about putting them back. Put a hood over the eyes. Baby birds do not know English so using your voice only makes the bird more stressed. Use a person who is very agile at hights to perform this task. Find some system better than a pop riveter to fasten the bands.

[@karenmetzger354]

And a voice recorder or phone plugged into your ear for saving the feather measurements so you're not fumbling with an old notebook and pencil, let alone for communicating with your team so you aren't fumbling with the walkie-talkie and exposing the eaglet to the added racket. I'm sure phone reception isn't always available but earbuds are and the measurements could be recorded by someone on the ground.

[@dodlido]

Lady Hawk any update on the sex of Stormy? Male or female?

[@ladyhawk]

Stormy is a male and returned to the nest this afternoon (5.5.18)

[@MelbaL.]

That was such a poignant moment when they took Triple B’s body out. It seemed Stormy was guarding it. Well, nature takes its course. May I ask where this nest is located? Not familiar with Big Bear. Thanks 😊

[@jaanfo3874]

Big Bear is located in the San Bernardino National Forest, high up in the mountains about two hours northeast of downtown Los Angeles (not counting traffic).

[@MelbaL.]

Jaanfo Thanks for your reply. At least I know where they are located now !! Such beautiful nest.

[@Slopoketurtle]

I was afraid the eaglets would go overboard. Risky business. J and S very distraught and Stormy was visibly shaken but I know it’s for a good cause.

[@CissyBrazil]

I’m surprised parents don’t fly at Joe as reflex protecting of a chick...even tho 45 days old.

[@charzpak7173]

The plastic has 2 holes

[@micahsomers5934]

Just cut the feed why you do climbs so nobody can say anything. Puts an end to all the obnoxious unknowledgeable analyzers . Love y’all .

[@tlockenest7152]

I don't think Stormy has been fed today. Is it possible that the parents do not like the human scent on the baby.

[@ladyhawk]

I saw Stormy get feed two times today so he is doing well. Both parents were on the nest with him tonight. That is a old wives tale about the scent of humans scaring off the parents of birds! Besides, eagles have a very poor sense of smell!

[@user-ri5qz4ey8x]

Здравствуйте! Вот и окольцевали птенца. Растут, глядишь и гнездо покинет скоро. А что там забрали в чёрный пакет из гнезда? Какая то дичь?

[@rb032682]

"....unfortunately, it hit a rock."

[@Samantha-lynn1980]

Towards the end of the video, joe was on the radio and he said I had to drop bbb and unfortunately it may still be alive. If bbb is still alive is it possible he can still be rehab or if it’s too late will they put it out of its misery

[@debralounder3810]

Samantha Reichle I thought I heard the same .. maybe my ears were playing tricks on me.

[@kindlecatsbngold2108]

Heard that remark as well. is the bird's body retrieved? Wouldn't they have planned to remove body in a different type if bag?

[@YouAreMySunshine2]

Wait, what? Noway BBB was still alive, right? OMG...I hope they could put him to sleep because after that drop, if it didn't fully kill him, it would have broken all his bones.

[@dianecoats4746]

No, BBB was not alive and that's not what he said. Read Lady Hawks message at the beginning of this blog.

[@Samantha-lynn1980]

Diane Coats what did he say, because two other people heard what I heard and I listened to it multiple time and with the sound all the way up and it still sounded like he said “unfortunately it is still alive”

[@carlwilliams6977]

Why didn't they put the eaglet in a bag and lower it for banding like I've seen done elsewhere. Seems more efficient and less traumatic for the bird. It enables them to get more measurements and take a blood sample.This poor guy had his hands full.....literally! In addition, they could have lowered the eaglet's body after they were done, and it wouldn't have "hit a rock".

[@moka9144]

I'm sorry to say that, but for me it did not look very professional. I have already seen some bandings. Here I did not know who I should be more afraid of, about Stormy or the old man. Why is a 1500x experienced man surprised by the size of the poor BBB and why he did not then packed it in his backpack or tied to his pants. He had a backpack with him, as you could see in the beginning when he unpacked his gear. Experienced people should think in advance about the transport. Also, it alienates me that he has not put a cloth over poor Stormy's head so as to stress him as little as possible. Poor Stormy must have been so scared. Please do not get me wrong, I'm really happy that everything went well for Stormy and that the climber came down safely. Compared to the really professional and loving rescue of DH Chick or the 4x rescue of "Bailey", the osprey, that banding was just scary for me to watch and I'm very sad for the poor dead BBB. Even though he was dead, it broke my heart to see him being thrown down - like a piece of garbage in a garbage bag.

[@MsSuprfly]

Oh my gosh, Joe said to Jackie at the end of video, that he had to drop the bird and unfortunately he thinks it was still alive!!!!! What!!! Listen very closely at the end of this video as he is getting down from tree, he hollers to jackie.. Im heartbroken.. WTF!!!💔

[@ladyhawk]

No that is not what he said. He said - unfortunately I think it fell out. Please see the pinned comment at the top of the page for a detailed explanation of today's events. It would have been impossible for Triple B to be alive after 6 days.

[@masta819]

You misheard what he said. Read the caption of this video and it tells you "unfortunately I think it fell out." The eaglet definitely was not still alive.

[@MsSuprfly]

Lady Hawk Thank you for your reply, unfortunately i cannot read the captions, i only hear the audio. I had thoughts running thru knowing Triple B laid there and never moved so when i was hearing what i thought i heard it rattled me.. Thank you for clarifying. Either way the loss is devastating..

[@MsSuprfly]

Jared Ward Appreciate the feed back, i only hear the audio, i cannot see the captions.. Thank you for bringing me back to ease.. Its a heart breaking loss whichever way its looked at, but Triple B will forever be Stormy's guardian Angel.. Literally...

[@patyrod]

I thought that is what he said, too.