Hawk CamFor those unfamiliar with the Hawk Cam, in conjunction with New York City Audubon, The New York Times set up a webcam pointed at a Red-Tailed Hawk’s nest that overlooks Washington Square Park. Similar to the world-famous Decorah Bald Eagle cam, the Hawk Cam gives a unique perspective on the lives of hawks.
Last year, the webcam featured an amazing amount of drama with both happy and sad endings. Two Red-Tailed Hawks, named Violet and Bobby, built a nest outside the 12th floor office of NYU’s president and The New York Times City Room blog set up a webcam. Violet laid three eggs, but it seemed like none of the eggs were going to hatch until a “miracle” happened and one egg hatched long after it wasn’t supposed to. While raising the only chick, Violet suffered an injury to her leg that increased in severity as time wore on.
There was controversy surrounding the best course of action to save her. Scientists decided to wait as long as possible, but in the end had to take action to save her. Unfortunately, she wasn’t able to recover and died, but not before their chick safely left its nest.
Now, the Hawk Cam is back up and Bobby has found a new mate viewers named Rosie. They have already mated and are incubating two eggs. Keep an eye on these two hawks trying to make it in a big city and watch the drama unfold.
You can also follow along with written updates at the City Room blog.
