This was the day we have all been waiting on! Beau delivers his first food gift to Gabby! He flies in with either a piece of squirrel or nutria and Gabby immediately claims the food and takes it to the side of the nest to eat. She was certainty excited about this food gift too! It has been long in coming but it has arrived!! This is a big milestone for Beau he did not fight her for the food or try & eat it himself, he simply let her take it. This is the beginning of a long and beautiful relationship for them!

Gabby eats her food while Beau tidy's up the nest. Seems like Beau's hormones are raging lately he begins with his mating vocals and tail swishing while Gabby is still eating (or had just finished her meal) beginning at 05:35. Gabby was receptive to the mating but Beau never mounted her. Gabby's cloaca was open for mating if you watch at 05:43. Beau than lies motionless next to her for a moment ♥♥ Young love at its finest! Gabby then pushes past Beau and starts to do some aerating of the bowl.

In the mating process, the male will land on the female’s back, using his wings to balance. He positions his cloaca under the female’s tail, and she positions hers too. Sperm passes from the male to the female’s cloaca into the oviduct for fertilization.

This is truly a special moment in time we are witnessing between Gabby & Beau. It has been a blessing to watch Beau grow and mature before our eyes in his own time and way. He is now coming into his destiny and magnificence as a mature male eagle ready to take on the responsibilities of a mate and raising a family. Gabby has chosen to wait for Beau to mature and now has fully accepted him as her mate. It has been such a privilege to be able to watch this happening! Gabby might be close to laying eggs so be sure to keep your eyes on her!

Congratulations Beau on bringing in your first food gift!! Thank you for watching!

Video captured & edited by Lady Hawk

Courtesy of AEF American Eagle Foundation Eagles.org