The Decorah Eagles nest update for November 9, 2026, brings a little of everything: chilly weather, impressive stick deliveries, and fresh fish for breakfast. HD’s breath became visible as he moved sticks around the nest. Meanwhile, HM2 arrived with a two-fisted delivery that added even more material to their growing home.
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The busy morning capped weeks of activity at Nest N6 near the Decorah Fish Hatchery in Iowa. From early morning fishing trips to determined nest renovations, HD and HM2 have given eagle watchers plenty to enjoy.
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HD’s Breath Shows During a Chilly November 9 Morning
November 9 offered a memorable glimpse of HD working in the cold.
As he moved sticks around the nest, his breath became visible in the chilly air. The moment gave viewers a clear reminder that winter weather is approaching Decorah.
However, the cold didn’t slow down the nest work. HM2 joined the action with an impressive two-fisted stick delivery. Both eagles continued bringing nesting material and arranging their growing collection of branches. The morning also included fishing activity and breakfast near the pond. Between nest work and food, the pair had a full schedule.
HM2 Takes Charge as the Decorah Eagles Nest Takes Shape
The recent activity didn’t begin with November’s chilly weather. On October 29, HD and HM2 performed a lively stick tango while working together at the nest. Their building efforts continued into November. By November 2, the nest had already noticeably taken shape. HM2 brought in a large log looking branch, while HD made another trip with a stick of his own.
On several occasions recently both eagles have continued their stick-shopping trips. Each delivery has helped build up the nest ahead of the next breeding season.
HM2 Brings a Fish to the Nest on November 6
November 6 brought another interesting development when HM2 delivered a fish directly to the nest. The delivery stood out among the many branches and logs that HD and HM2 had carried into N6.
Fishing has also remained a regular part of the pair’s routine. Both eagles have been spotted fishing around the hatchery pond on several occasions. The last week has brought more flights, fishing, eating, and even feaking. Feaking is a natural behavior in which an eagle wipes its beak against a branch or another surface, often after eating.
The action continued on November 8, when early nest renovations came with another round of fishing for breakfast.
Foggy Flights and Quiet Moments Together
Not every memorable moment involved sticks or fish. On November 4, fog and blustery conditions created a dramatic setting as HD and HM2 continued visiting and working on the nest. The following day, November 5, the pair shared a quieter moment while perching together in the pond tree. They eventually flew toward the bluffs.
These visits offer another look at the adults’ daily life beyond the nest. Between fishing, preening, flying, and spending time together, HD and HM2 continue using the familiar areas surrounding the Decorah hatchery.
Why Are the Decorah Eagles Building Their Nest in November?
Although spring is still months away, fall nest preparation is normal for bald eagles in Decorah. The Decorah Eagles generally begin courtship activity in October. Egg laying usually takes place in mid-to-late February.
Therefore, the November stick deliveries do not mean eggs are coming immediately. Instead, HD and HM2 are strengthening and preparing their nest for another possible breeding season. Larger branches help reinforce the structure, while smaller materials help shape the nesting area.
After raising DH3 and DH4 earlier in 2026, the adults have returned to the familiar work of maintaining N6. For now, their November routine includes plenty of flying, fishing, and nest improvements. And judging by their recent activity, there may be more nest work ahead.
Tulsaducati recorded and shared the video on YouTube. This live cam experience is provided by the Raptor Resource Project.
Decorah Eagles Nest Update FAQ
What are HD and HM2 doing at the Decorah Eagles nest?
HD and HM2 are rebuilding and maintaining Nest N6. Their recent activities include delivering sticks, arranging nesting material, fishing, and spending time around the Decorah hatchery.
Why could viewers see HD’s breath on November 9?
Cold air made the moisture in HD’s warm breath visible. The moment occurred while he worked with sticks at the nest on November 9, 2026.
When will the Decorah Eagles lay eggs again?
Decorah bald eagles generally lay eggs in February. HM2 laid her two 2026 eggs on February 17 and 21. However, the timing of any future eggs remains uncertain.
It’s a busy day in the Eagle World today. Good seeing these 2 also. Looks quite chilly there. NC 69 today and back into the 70s for the rest of the week. Thank you very much for sharing a great video