Eaglet Falls From Nest Along Hays Bike Trail

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A baby eagle has caught the attention of sightseers, who gather each day on a bike trail in Hays.

But weekend bird watchers noticed that the eaglet had fallen from the nest.

"The adults, a couple of different times, went in, one time definitely with food, to the spot where the chick had landed," says National Aviary ornithologist Bob Mulvihill. "That's a good sign."

He says the eaglet dropped onto another branch some 20 feet below.

"The adults, of course, are very aware of the young not being in the nest,and subsequently were seen taking the food to the young eagle on his perch below the nest."

At eight weeks, it's still early for the bird to leave the nest. Not to worry, Mulvihill says.

"This bird probably will sit on his perch or nearby while the parents feed it," he said. "At that point, it should be able to develop an ability to fly, and eventually follow the adults out away from the nesting area, down to the river, I would expect."

The male eagle returns to the perch - a good sign that all is well. But the little one could be forgiven, if he misses the comforts of home.

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