🎉 We Have a Pip! The SWFL Eagles Hatching Journey Officially Begins
The moment eagle fans across the world have been waiting for is finally here. On December 17, 2025, the SWFL Eagles nest erupted with joy as the first confirmed pip appeared on Egg #1. This exciting milestone marks the beginning of the hatching process for the eaglet known as E26. SWFL Eagles pip Egg 1 in an exciting display of nature’s wonders.
Early in the morning, F23 was seen incubating her eggs when she carefully rose and revealed something extraordinary. At 06:45:44 AM, viewers caught the first official view of a pip, a tiny crack in the shell showing that the chick inside is actively working to break free. Today is day 35 of incubation, right on schedule for a healthy bald eagle hatch.
Not long after, M15 stepped in to take over incubation duties, and viewers soon spotted a starburst pattern, a classic sign that hatching is well underway. The nest is now officially in hatch watch mode.
🥚 What Is a Pip and Why It Matters
A pip is the first crack an eaglet makes in its shell using its egg tooth. This tiny opening allows the chick to begin breathing air and signals that hatching has started. From this point, the process can take 24 to 48 hours, sometimes longer, depending on the eaglet’s strength and timing.
Seeing a pip on day 35 is a strong indicator that this eaglet is developing normally. With Egg #2 currently at day 32, there’s a good chance we may see another pip in the coming days. The SWFL Eagles pip Egg 1 has become the highlight of the season.
⏱️ Watch the Key Moments
Use the timestamps below to jump directly to the most exciting moments in the video:
- 00:00 – F23 incubating the eggs, then rises
- 01:03 – 👉 First clear view of the pip on Egg #1
- 03:32 – 👉 Excellent pip view as M15 gets up
- 04:10 – Starburst pattern visible, hatch in progress
🦅 Nest Timeline for SWFL Eagles Season 14
- Egg #1 laid: November 12, 2025 at 3:08 PM
- Egg #2 laid: November 15, 2025 at 7:23 PM
- First pip on Egg #1: December 17, 2025 at 6:45:44 AM
This season has already delivered unforgettable moments, and now we’re watching new life emerge in real time. The SWFL Eagles pip Egg 1 has captured the hearts of many.
🌿 What Happens Next?
Now that the pip is visible, the eaglet will continue rotating inside the egg, slowly enlarging the opening until it can push free. During this time, both parents remain attentive, listening closely and carefully incubating to maintain the right temperature and humidity.
Once E26 hatches, viewers can expect:
- A tiny, wet eaglet resting after the effort
- First feedings within hours
- Lots of sleeping, stretching, and eventually… bonking
Nature will unfold at its own pace, and every step will be fascinating to watch.
📬 Stay Connected With the SWFL Eagles
Don’t miss a single moment of this incredible journey.
👉 Subscribe to our newsletter for hatch alerts and daily nest updates.
👉 Visit our SWFL Eagles live cam hub to watch the action unfold in real time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take after a pip for an eagle egg to hatch?
Typically, hatching occurs 24 to 48 hours after the first pip, though it can sometimes take longer.
Can the parents hear the chick inside the egg?
Yes. Eagles can hear and feel movement from the chick, which often explains their intense focus on the eggs during this stage.
What is a starburst pattern on an eagle egg?
A starburst is a spreading crack pattern around the pip hole and is a strong sign that hatching is actively progressing.
How old is Egg #2?
Egg #2 is currently 32 days old, so it may pip in the coming days.

