Athena Lays Second Egg Of 2026 At Great Horned Owl Nest

Athena, the resident Great Horned Owl at the Wildflower Center, laid her second egg of the 2026 breeding season on March 9—just over four days after the first. Watch the big reveal in the highlight above as she rises from the nest and gives viewers their first look at the new arrival. While Athena typically lays two eggs per clutch, there’s still a chance that another egg could arrive up to 4–5 days after the second.

Based on the history at this site, the first egg is expected to hatch around April 8. Until then, Athena will spend most of her time incubating at the nest. Nighttime offers the best chance to see her mate deliver meals, so be sure to tune in to the Great Horned Owl Cam to catch the action.

Want to learn more about these amazing predators? Check out the Great Horned Owl species guide on All About Birds.