M15, the surviving male of a mated pair that saw it's female eagle vanish earlier this year, caused quite a stir this week.
Concern over the health and welfare of M15, prompted a note from the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam website about his vanishing act.
The last sightings of M15 were made late Tuesday and nothing was seen of the male bald eagle since then.
However, Thursday afternoon M15 was seen via the cams back at the nest and feeding eaglet E26.
Prior to the return, the cam site, which has been watching the nest via online cameras since 2012, shared a brief update Thursday:
"M15 has been navigating an incredibly demanding season: caring for a growing juvenile, providing food, and continuing to protect and defend his territory. These responsibilities can sometimes pull him away from the immediate view of the cameras for periods of time.
"At this point, there are many possibilities, and no confirmed information. We remain hopeful and will continue to watch closely, trusting in his strength and resilience while also acknowledging the uncertainty of the situation.
"Thank you for your care, patience, and continued support as we wait and watch together."
What made the situation more fraught for many of the nest's watchers is the recent disappearance and likely death of his mate, F23.
F23 disappeared in early March and the remains of a female eagle were found nearby soon after.
"After receiving several credible reports of a deceased eagle found less than two miles from the nest, we are presuming that F23 has passed. While we await any possible confirmation, the proximity and timing make this the most likely conclusion," was posted on Facebook by the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam March 3.
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