At HDOnTap, we’ve spent over a decade streaming some of nature’s most incredible moments – bald eagles raising their young, ospreys diving for fish, owls calling in the night, and bears roaming in the wild. While the final result looks seamless, setting up a successful live streaming camera on an eagle’s nest, especially high in a tree, requires meticulous planning, technical expertise, and deep respect for wildlife.

Below, we break down everything that goes into the process – from permits and equipment to off-grid power and installation.

Step One: Permits & Wildlife Protection

Bald and golden eagles are protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, meaning camera installations near a nest require federal approval. Here’s what’s typically needed:

• A Special Purpose Utility Permit (SPUT) from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
• State wildlife agency approval (varies by state)
• Written permission from the landowner or managing authority
• Strict adherence to seasonal timing—installations must be completed outside of nesting season, typically late summer through early winter. Eagles in the southern U.S. often nest earlier than those in the north.

Following these regulations is essential to protect both the eagles and your project.

Site Evaluation: Access, Safety & Visibility

A professional site assessment is critical to determine feasibility and success. Key questions we address include:

• Is the tree healthy and structurally sound?
• Are there suitable branches above or near the nest for camera mounting?
• Can a boom lift access the tree, or is a professional tree climber required?
• Is there grid power nearby, or is off-grid solar necessary?
• Is there internet access, or will we need to deploy fixed wireless, Starlink, or another uplink?
• If using Starlink, is there a clear view of the sky within 150 feet?
• For solar, does the location offer strong southern sun exposure?

Selecting the Right Camera(s) and Audio Equipment

We recommend rugged, outdoor-rated IP camera systems designed for continuous operation in challenging environments. Key features include:

• High-resolution video: 1080p, 4MP (2560×1440), or 4K Ultra HD
• Infrared or Starlight technology for low-light/nighttime viewing
• AAC audio compression for optimal sound quality and streaming compatibility
• PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) capabilities for dynamic remote control and detailed nest views

PTZ cameras allow viewers to zoom in on the nest bowl, chicks, feedings, or branching events—all without physical intrusion.

Proper Mounting & Protection Techniques

Mounting and protection techniques can make or break a wildlife live stream. Here are our key best practices:

• Run all cabling (Ethernet, audio) in protective conduit—we recommend aluminum flex conduit for durability and protection from squirrels or raccoons
• Secure conduit neatly along the tree, avoiding dangling sections that could sway in the wind and damage cables
• Avoid screwing conduit directly into the tree; use friction methods or gentle ties. Once secured, camouflage the conduit with paint to blend in
• Pre-mount cameras on waterproof boards at ground level; run Ethernet through conduit before climbing
• Mount the camera 6–7 feet from the nest bowl, angled downward at 25°–30° for optimal viewing—never directly overhead, which can spook the birds and diminish viewer engagement

Power and Internet in Remote Locations

Remote eagle nest locations often lack power and internet – making system design a critical phase of deployment.

Power Options:

• Grid power (ideal when available)
• Off-grid solar systems with properly sized battery banks, PV arrays, and charge controllers

Internet/Network Options:

• Wired Ethernet (limited to 328 feet from the source)
• Fixed wireless backhaul when a clear line-of-sight to a networked location is available
• Starlink satellite internet, offering strong performance when there’s a clear view of the sky
• Cellular routers with external antennas (not ideal unless you have unlimited data and a routable IP—often only feasible for government agencies)
• All equipment—routers, PoE injectors, surge protection, and solar components—are housed in weatherproof enclosures, mounted on nearby structures or in-ground boxes.

Tree Climbing & Camera Installation

When a boom lift isn’t viable, experienced tree climbers are required. We coordinate closely with climbers to:

• Review mounting plans and safety procedures in advance
• Provide real-time installation guidance via FaceTime or Zoom
• Test the camera feed live while the climber is in the tree
• Confirm video framing, lens clarity, audio levels, and stream integrity on-site

This live support ensures everything is perfect before the climber descends – minimizing repeat climbs and wildlife disturbance.

Going Live: Streaming Setup & Viewer Experience

Once the system is installed and online, HDOnTap handles stream setup and optimization:

• Video/audio encoding and bandwidth management
• Time-lapse video integration
• Branded stream player with overlays, logos, and sponsor graphics
• Simulcasting to YouTube, Facebook Live, and other platforms
• 24/7 stream monitoring, uptime alerts, and technical support

We work with your organization to embed the stream on your website, engage your audience, and build long-term viewer interest.

Ongoing Maintenance & Support

When installed correctly, an eagle cam can run for years with minimal upkeep. Off-season maintenance includes:

• Cleaning the lens and microphone cover
• Ensuring cabling remains secure and undamaged
• Trimming any vegetation obstructing the view
• Verifying camera mount integrity
• Checking microphone wind protection
• Replacing batteries or cleaning solar panels, as needed

Ready to Launch Your Own Live Eagle Nest Camera?

If you’re ready to bring the beauty of a bald eagle nest to the world, HDOnTap is your trusted partner. We’ve installed and supported some of the most popular eagle nest cams across North America and specialize in helping organizations bring their unique wildlife stories to life.

Fill out our Project Discovery Form to schedule a free consultation and start planning your eagle cam installation today.