Decorah Iowa eagle found dead
 

"July 3, 2012
We are very sorry to announce that D12 is dead. D12 was found electrocuted at the base of a power pole on a Sunday morning. We notified the power company, who modified the top of that pole on Sunday and several other poles in the area on Monday. As of this morning, they are continuing to identify and modify poles to make them raptor safe."

This was the 1st eaglet hatched at this nest this year, hence the designation D12. "D" indicates the Decorah nest; "12" meaning this was the 12th eaglet hatched by this pair at this nest since records have been kept.

That is so sad! I was watching on and off. I've been watching a puffin webcam (with a puffin chick!) and I keep fearing something bad will happen to them!

It can be stressful watching these cams.

When the Mother eagle at Norfolk was hit by the plane last year
while bringing a fish back for her young eaglets, I was so devastated I couldn't watch anymore. I loved watching her, each season, and admired her great gentle handling of the small chicks. She seemed so intelligent and patient and protective.

So while the cams are educational and fascinating, they can be triggering to some sensitive people like me. I haven't watched any cams this season at all. Maybe I'll go back next year.