Despite the rock being lifeless, Murphy treated it as an egg, sitting on it diligently, adjusting the nest’s sticks, and warding off any curious eagles who came too close. WBS shared his dedication on Facebook, humorously noting, "We have yet to see a rock hatch!" While many assumed Murphy was lonely and in need of a mate, sanctuary staff clarified that he was simply acting on natural instincts. Male bald eagles actively participate in raising young, and Murphy had taken his role very seriously—albeit with an unconventional "egg."
Then, fate intervened. A Bald eagle nest in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, was blown down by powerful winds, leaving one chick orphaned after its sibling perished in the fall. The rescued eaglet was taken to the World Bird Sanctuary’s Wildlife Hospital, where staff made a bold decision: they would introduce the baby to Murphy, despite him never having raised a chick before.
Initially, Murphy was hesitant. He observed the chick for about an hour but did not feed it. However, the next day, something remarkable happened. The chick moved closer to Murphy, seeking warmth and protection. That was the turning point.
“IT’S HAPPENING!!!!” WBS excitedly announced. “MURPHY FED THE BABY!!!!” The sanctuary shared a heartwarming photo of Murphy tending to the chick, affirming that they would remain as hands-off as possible to let the bond naturally develop. Murphy, who once fiercely protected his rock, had now found a real purpose—a chance to be the devoted father he always wanted to be.A New Beginning for Murphy and His Chick
This touching story of dedication, loss, and second chances has resonated with animal lovers everywhere. Murphy, once a determined guardian of a simple rock, now has a living, breathing eaglet to care for—a testament to the powerful instincts and adaptability of nature’s creatures.
Then, fate intervened. A Bald eagle nest in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, was blown down by powerful winds, leaving one chick orphaned after its sibling perished in the fall. The rescued eaglet was taken to the World Bird Sanctuary’s Wildlife Hospital, where staff made a bold decision: they would introduce the baby to Murphy, despite him never having raised a chick before.
Initially, Murphy was hesitant. He observed the chick for about an hour but did not feed it. However, the next day, something remarkable happened. The chick moved closer to Murphy, seeking warmth and protection. That was the turning point.
“IT’S HAPPENING!!!!” WBS excitedly announced. “MURPHY FED THE BABY!!!!” The sanctuary shared a heartwarming photo of Murphy tending to the chick, affirming that they would remain as hands-off as possible to let the bond naturally develop. Murphy, who once fiercely protected his rock, had now found a real purpose—a chance to be the devoted father he always wanted to be.A New Beginning for Murphy and His Chick
This touching story of dedication, loss, and second chances has resonated with animal lovers everywhere. Murphy, once a determined guardian of a simple rock, now has a living, breathing eaglet to care for—a testament to the powerful instincts and adaptability of nature’s creatures.
