ITHACA, N.Y. (WENY) -- Big Red has captured the hearts of birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts at Cornell University for over a decade. Alongside her partner, Arthur, she has raised numerous chicks each year, drawing observers from around the globe. As the cold months come to a close, the nesting season is coming to an end, stirring excitement among fans of this iconic bird.

"The hawks began nesting even before we set up the live camera. It was actually the reason we decided to install the camera at their nest site," Eldemire explained.

Since the camera was placed in 2012, viewers have been granted a front-row seat to Big Red's life. They have faithfully returned to the same nesting location year after year, ensuring that the spectacle continues.

For observers, distinguishing between Big Red and Arthur is easy. Big Red has dark brown feathers and a black band around her claw that assists with research.

"That band was placed back in 2003 or 2000, so she's about 20 years old now. It’s astonishing to think that Big Red has made her home on campus for the past 12 to 15 years, and likely has been a resident even longer," explains Eldemire.

Big Red and Arthur can be spotted high up in a light fixture. According to Eldermire, Big Red laid her fourth egg on April 2nd, and it will take about a month for the eyas (chicks or hawklets) to start pecking their way out into the world.

Big Red has been in her current nesting location since 2012. She lost her original partner, Ezra, to an injury several years ago, and she has formed a strong bond with Arthur, who has been a supportive partner ever since.

As the nesting season continues, some fans may have observed that Big Red is not making many public appearances.

"When the eggs start hatching, it’s an incredibly thrilling time," Eldemire expressed. "It begins with a tiny crack in the surface of the egg. Our viewers are very observant, and we have a camera that can zoom in closely on the eggs." She added, "The chick starts tapping from the inside, equipped with a special protuberance at the tip of their tiny bill, called an egg tooth, which they use to break out of the egg. They are very much alive inside that shell."

Every year, the story of Big Red and her family continues to unfold, captivating audiences and highlighting the beauty of nature on Cornell's campus.

For now, fans eagerly await the arrival of Big Red's newest chicks, marking yet another chapter in her legacy, attracting birdwatchers worldwide who follow her every move. The spring-like weather signals the end of their nesting season.

To watch a live feed of the hawks, click here.