HANOVER, Pa. — If you follow the Codorus State Park Eagle Cam, we've got great news.
When the eagles return to their nest at the Hanover park later this year, you'll be able to get an even better look at them.
HDOnTap announced Tuesday that new, upgraded cameras have been installed around the nest for the next nesting season.
The nest is home to two resident bald eagles, who since 2013 have won over the hearts of millions who watch the activity in their nest unfold live year after year.
"This year, the eagles' many devoted observers will enjoy the thrill of the season from three different camera views made possible by partnership between Comcast Business, HDOnTap, and Pennsylvania Game Commission," HDOnTap said in a press release.
HDOnTap installed a second Pan-Tilt-Zoome camera and a 4K POV camera earlier this month, the company said. All cameras are equipped with infrared light to see anything going on in the nest day or night with optimal clarity.
The Hanover eagles will begin their nesting season around November, bringing sticks and soft nesting material into the nest in preparation for incubating eggs.
The eagles have been stopping by the nest more frequently, most recently the eagles returned to the nest on October 13th after the new cameras were installed.
"This is sure to be an interesting season, as an unexpected visitor, a Great Horned Owl, has also been frequenting in the nest at night," HDonTap said.
Viewing this nest has been a true comeback story in several ways. Bald eagle populations across the country have made remarkable progress in recent years.
As recently as 30 years ago, there were a mere three bald eagle nests left in Pennsylvania. But thanks to conservation efforts and the success of the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s recovery program, the state is now home to more than 300 nests, HDonTap said.
This past May, many watched as the eaglet fell from the nest but was soon spotted on a lower branch. The eaglet eventually fledged from the nest tree and has been seen around the lake since fledging.
“While viewers never know what will happen next on the eagle-cam live streams offered by the Game Commission, HDOnTap and Comcast Business, there’s rarely a shortage of action,” said Steve Smith, director of the Game Commission’s Bureau of Information & Education. “It’s no wonder viewers keep coming back, year after year.
"And this year, with three cameras working together to capture footage at the Hanover nest, it could be the most-intriguing, behind-the-scenes view of wildlife we’ve seen.”
