The hawklet is about 4 weeks old now. I have been watching for less than a week. Within 6 days the changes have been remarkable. For those of you who have watched since the egg cracked--what an experience!! I find it hard to believe that in approximately 2 more weeks this hawklet will fledge. That is a lot of changes in 2 weeks.
Those downy feathers on the head will change. Those short little wings will have to grow into strong, muscular, flight devices with long primary feathers. The tail will extend to become rudder and stabilizer.
How does one achieve the strength required for first flight in such a small space as this nest? After the first flight, will it continue to return to the nest (and be fed by an adult), and for how long?
These are all questions we have the privilege of finding out for ourselves FIRSTHAND thanks to this wonderful opportunity provided by the kjrh hawk cam. Technology really can be amazing!
Thank you for allowing us to be the eyes that see.