April 24, 2019
DN9 at the North nest is 20 days old today and watchers were concerned by its panting. Why was DN9 panting so much? Eagles lack sweat glands, so they pant to cool themselves down. While the day didn't seem especially warm by human standards, the sun is bright and the leaves haven't yet unfurled to provide shade. In addition to panting, eaglets also sprawl and seek shade. If they get too warm, parents will often act as a sunshade, unfurling wings or standing to provide a little relief. Cold and snow aren't the only weather challenges that parents face!
