Branch hopping with mother

SE27 (left) and SE28 exploring the nest tree branches together this evening at Sydney White-bellied Sea-eagle nest. The Pied currawongs would still occasionally swoop at them, but an eaglet at the cusp of fledging can only take so much being cooped up in the nest.

Wingers first from SE28, then SE27.

SE28 discovers yet another new branch!

From another angle, SE27 on the left and SE28 on the right. A nice comparison of their profiles.

Their mother Lady joins them at the branches, providing some protection from the swoops, as well as branching inspiration.

SE28 follows mother to her branch.

 

But now she's over there. What are you going to do?

SE28 follows her again, but she flies back to her original perch. SE27 leaps back to the nest.

SE27 seems to conclude that climbing up this branch is an easier way to get to mom's perching spot. In the meantime SE28 follows Lady again, and she flies to the other branch yet again.

And SE28 follows her again. She's doing a great job encouraging him to fly longer distances. SE27 on the other hand remains more skeptical about her wings being able to carry her no matter how easy mother makes it seem.

Lady and SE28.

Lady on a different branch again, SE27 has joined SE28 by walking along the branch.

SE27 nipping at SE28's tail.

Lady and SE28 on one branch (of SE28 only the feet are visible here), SE27 alone on the other. She spreads her wings... Will she finally make the jump?

No, she tries the climbing approach again, jumping to the nest and from there up the branch. She doesn't get further than that, though, and returns to the nest. Maybe next time. Discovering this branch to climb up is already something.

SE28 returns to the nest as well. Good job expanding your world again, little one! Who knows how many new branches you'll discover tomorrow!

SE27 gives climbing the branch one more try before bed.

Never mind, back to nest. Hey, get out of the way, little bro!

She can't jump over gaps between branches yet, but she can jump over him.

SE27, SE28. Finding some leftover supper.

Good night, stay safe! Lady and Dad are guarding the eaglets from branches of the nest tree, and the eaglets sort out their sleeping arrangements. SE27 gives SE28's tail either a preen or a playful tug.