Adult building nest
Laying the eggs
Just hatched!
The chick, covered in soft, light-gray down, weighs about 3 ounces and is very dependent on its parents for warmth and food.
Week one
The chick's eyes open fully, and its appetite grows rapidly as it begins to strengthen. The parents are busy keeping it warm and feeding it small bites.
Week two
The eaglet's down becomes thicker and darker gray. Its legs and beak continue to grow, and it becomes a bit more active.
Week three
Feathers begin to develop under the down. The chick grows larger and stronger, starts to sit up more, and can move around the nest slightly.
Week four
Darker pin feathers, which will become flight feathers, start emerging. The eaglet can now sit upright and starts interacting with its surroundings more.
Week five
The eaglet's feathers continue to grow, and it begins stretching and flapping its wings. It is now almost half the size of an adult.
Week six
Feathers continue filling in, and the eaglet gains strength. It practices flapping wings more often and shows increased curiosity.
Week seven (full size)
The young eagle reaches its adult size, with most feathers developed. It practices flapping vigorously, preparing for flight.
Week nine (learning to fly)
The eaglet starts to "branch" by hopping onto nearby branches and testing its wings. It will take short flights from the nest and return.
Week thirteen (ready to leave the nest)
Fully feathered and skilled in flight, the young eagle is ready to leave the nest. It may still stay close for a few weeks while learning to hunt.
All photos courtesy of © 2015 American Eagle Foundation, www.eagles.org.