ICYMI: Florida Eaglets Set To Hatch For The Holidays (Live Stream)

FORT MYERS, FL — While children across the country were eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival, Harriet and her new mate M15 have been preparing for the arrival of a pair of eaglets. The two are set to become parents sometime between Christmas and New Year’s.

Harriet, the bald eagle made famous courtesy of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, laid two eggs last month. The first arrived on Nov. 22 with the second following on Nov. 25. As the end of the anticipated 35-day incubation period nears, M15 and Harriet have been busy watching over their nest. Both mother and father “have each taken their turn incubating their eggs, carefully turning and rolling them at regular intervals,” an update on the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam’s Facebook page said.

Folks who have followed the cam for a while may not recognize Harriet’s new mate. M15 came into the picture after Ozzie, Harriet’s longtime partner, died in September 2015. Ozzie and Harriet became internet sensations courtesy of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam. Millions of viewers tuned in from across the globe to watch the majestic pair in action.

See also: Ozzie the Bald Eagle Has Died

Ozzie and Harriet are said to have begun nesting in the Fort Myers area early in the 1990s. Ozzie’s death was partially attributed to injuries sustained during a fight with another bald eagle. The folks behind the eagle cam took the loss hard.

“It was a gift to observe his and Harriet’s bond over the last three seasons and we will remember his dedication, commitment and love for many years to come,” the folks behind the eagle cam wrote on Facebook after Ozzie’s passing. “Fly high and free Ozzie.”

While M15 isn’t as well-known as his predecessor, he’s already shaping up to be an excellent father.

“M15 has proven his skills as he has turned into a masterful provider, nest builder and protector,” a Dec. 20 Facebook update noted. “Dad has delivered fish and prey to the nest and continues bringing grass and sticks. Their work is never finished. Harriet and M15 have turned into a well synced and loyal eagle couple striving to continue their legacy throughout the twists and turns of eagle life.”

The Southwest Florida Eagle Cam Foundation was created several years ago to keep live streams running of Harriet and Ozzie’s nest. The organization’s goal “is to provide a unique educational resource to wildlife officials and individuals all around the world,” the foundation’s website said. “We strive to create awareness for all raptors alike and provide financial incentives to programs who commit themselves for the conservation and education of wildlife.”

For more information about the foundation or to make a donation, visit its website. To watch Harriet and M15 prepare for their eaglets' arrival, check out the live stream below.

Video and screenshot courtesy of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam Foundation