The Decorah Eagles 2025 season will be remembered as one of the most emotional and transformative years in the history of the Hatchery pair. What began as a quiet winter(early 2025) quickly turned into a year marked by loss, unexpected change, and the hopeful beginnings of a brand-new nest that may shape future seasons.
Below is a complete look at everything that unfolded in 2025 — written clearly and respectfully for the many viewers who have followed this beloved eagle family for years. Please note: The views and information in this post are from my research about the nest and do not necessarily reflect that of others including RRP.
A Sudden Loss: Remembering Hatchery Mom (HM)
Early in 2025, the long-time female of the Decorah hatchery territory — Hatchery Mom (HM) — was found down near the hatchery. Despite rescue efforts, she died from lead poisoning shortly afterward.
The RRP blog says they “suspect” the eagle found in early 2025 was HM. That means while it’s very likely, it’s not 100% confirmed by a published DNA/ band-ID report.
For many long-time followers, HM’s passing was a heartbreaking moment. She was a powerful fisher, an attentive mother, and a stabilizing presence in the territory. Her loss left a noticeable void not only in the Decorah skies but also in the hearts of thousands who watched her raise eaglets year after year. 😔
Hatchery Dad (HD) Carries On — and a New Mate Appears
After HM’s death, Hatchery Dad (HD) remained in the area, continuing to defend and patrol the hatchery territory. In time, a new female eagle began spending time with him. Together, the pair started exploring potential nesting sites around the hatchery grounds.
Their behavior quickly made one thing clear:
A new chapter for the Decorah Eagles was beginning.
The Birth of N6 — A New Nest for a New Pair
As spring progressed, HD and his new mate began showing interest in a particular tree near Siewers Spring Road, just north of the trout hatchery. The pair brought sticks, arranged branches, and began shaping what would become a brand-new nest: N6.
This marks the sixth nest associated with the Decorah Hatchery Eagles since the early days of N0 and N1.
N6 represents:
- A fresh start after the loss of HM
- A new partnership for HD
- A potential primary nesting site for the 2026 breeding season
For viewers, N6 symbolizes both healing and continuity — the resilience of these birds and the territory they call home.
RRP Prepares New Cameras at N6
Because HD and his new mate were exploring multiple possible sites (including the previously used N5), the Raptor Resource Project installed cameras at both N5 and N6 so the public could continue following the eagles no matter which nest they ultimately chose.
N6 has become the focal point due to the pair’s increasing activity there. The installation of new cameras means that in the upcoming 2026 season, viewers will have a front-row seat to this new chapter, just as they have for past nests.
No Eagle Eggs in 2025 at the Hatchery
Although the pair bonded and worked on the nest, 2025 did not produce an active eagle nesting attempt at the Decorah Hatchery site. The on-camera nests (N1 and N2B) were again used primarily by Canada geese, a now-common seasonal occurrence.
This makes 2025 a transitional year — not one defined by eggs or hatchings, but by the rebuilding of the eagle family structure itself.
What This Means for 2026
Everything that happened in 2025 sets the stage for an important 2026 nesting season:
- HD and his new mate appear bonded
- N6 is taking shape as a fully formed nest
- Cameras are prepared and expected to go live
- The territory remains healthy and strongly defended
If conditions continue positively, 2026 could be the first full breeding season for this new pair — and potentially the first eaglets since the 2023 hatchery success with DH2.
Watch the Decorah Eagles Live
You can watch the Decorah eagles, their new nest, and the surrounding wildlife anytime on our Decorah Eagles page.
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FAQ – Decorah Eagles 2025
Did the Decorah Eagles have eggs in 2025?
No. The hatchery eagles did not lay eggs in 2025. The year was primarily focused on territory changes after HM’s passing and the construction of the new N6 nest.
What happened to Hatchery Mom (HM)?
HM was found down early in 2025 and died of lead poisoning shortly after being recovered.
Who is Hatchery Dad’s new mate?
A new, unnamed female eagle bonded with HD during 2025 and is now the other half of the pair building N6.
What is N6?
N6 is the new nest constructed by HD and his new mate near Siewers Spring Road. It is expected to be the primary nest watched for the 2026 season.
Will there be a new camera on N6?
Yes. RRP installed cameras at both N5 and N6, preparing N6 to become the next major livestream nest.
