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Hilton Head’s beloved bald eagles welcome second egg to the nest

Following the excitement of the first egg on Nov. 21, Hilton Head eagle-watchers knew a second was likely on the way.

That moment finally happened at 6:14 p.m. on Nov. 24, when beloved bald eagle Gracie laid her second egg, just as eggs-pected.

Hilton Head’s favorite flying duo – Gracie and George – are now preparing for another addition to their growing family, as eagle-watchers tune in on the Hilton Head Island Land Trust’s eagle cam, where this pair is the star of the show.

The timing of the second egg is right on schedule. Typically, once the first egg is laid, the next one follows within three to five days.

Since the arrival of the first egg, Gracie and George have been sharing incubation duties. Now with two eggs in the nest, the couple’s main focus is maintaining the perfect incubation environment.

Bald eagle eggs require a consistent warmth of 97 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and Gracie and George’s attentive care ensures that the embryos are protected and thriving.

It takes about 35 days after laying for eagle eggs to hatch, potentially bringing eaglets just in time for Christmas.

Since the first egg arrived, Gracie and her longtime mate, George, have been sharing incubation duties. Eagle eggs must stay within a precise temperature range, between 97 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, for healthy development.
Since the first egg arrived, Gracie and her longtime mate, George, have been sharing incubation duties. Eagle eggs must stay within a precise temperature range, between 97 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, for healthy development. Courtesy of the Hilton Head Island Land Trust

This marks the 14th nesting season for the devoted pair and their second year on the Land Trust’s live eagle cam. Last year, viewers were thrilled to watch Gracie and George’s two eaglets, and anticipation is high for this season’s feathered newcomers.

Fans can continue to follow every moment of Gracie and George’s growing family on the live eagle cam.

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This story was originally published November 24, 2025 at 7:38 PM.

Anna Claire Miller
The Island Packet
Anna Claire Miller is a former journalist for the Island Packet
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