Everyone on the Bea cam expected both chicks to fledge yesterday.

The smaller one did fly away late just at dusk. He came back for a few minutes and then flew off for the night.

This morning the remaining chick is trembling, and not very interested in anything. She even refused one feeding from Mom.

Now at about 11am EST the little male who fledged yesterday has returned. The remaining chick even moved over before he came leaving a large spot open for him.

The change in behavior of the remaining chick has been remarkable. The caressing they did, and even mutual preening is very moving. Evidently according to the cam owner, who is experienced...this has not happened before. The chicks typically remain away from the nest once they fly for the first time.

The chat that accompanies this cam is naturally quite active today and the conversation reflects this unusual state of affairs!

Do take a look at this cam today...it is truly remarkable!

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It appears that the one chick is helping the second to fledge!

edit.... here is a photo from the cam from a few minutes ago.
The chick in the back is the one who is hesitating to fledge.
She did accept a meal so I saved the screen shot!

edit 2-- a second shot of Mom feeding again! This time hovering!

Edit #3... best viewing times are before noon, and after 3pm because of the sun/shade. The nest is in shade for some parts of the early afternoon. There are videos below the stream window that show what has happened since yesterday. They have a pause button so you can capture stills. It appears the Bea is feeding much more today, perhaps yesterday, she didn't feed enough to give the chicks enough energy. Sometimes the mother cuts back on feeding to encourage the chicks out of the nest...but this can backfire.