Watch Owl Nesting Season Live at Schlitz Audubon Center

There’s something magical happening in Milwaukee’s North Shore, and you don’t even have to leave your house to witness it—though it may inspire a visit in person.

Thanks to a special live owl cam at Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, families can now follow the story of Betty and Maverick, a pair of barred owls embarking on their third nesting season together. These owls have returned once again to the same nest box, and the camera gives us an incredible window into their world as they raise the next generation.

A Look Inside the Nest

As of mid-March, Betty has laid two eggs. Over the next few weeks, viewers can follow along as she incubates the eggs (a process that typically lasts 28-33 days) while Maverick provides support from nearby branches. If all goes well, we’ll get to see the owlets hatch and grow before eventually fledging, or leaving the nest, about 28-35 days after hatching.

The nest box is part of a larger Barred Owl Monitoring Project led by Schlitz Audubon in collaboration with raptor expert Bill Stout, a licensed raptor bander. The camera setup is supported by WE Energies, allowing viewers everywhere to experience the natural rhythms of nesting season.

For the safety of the owls and integrity of the research, the exact location of the nest box remains private.

Why It’s Worth Tuning In

Whether you’re a budding birder, a parent looking for a unique way to connect kids with wildlife, or just someone who loves a good nature moment, the live cam is a peaceful and educational way to slow down and witness something truly special. You’ll observe natural behaviors, learn about owl development, and maybe even develop an attachment to these charismatic birds.

You can watch the live cam and follow updates on significant nesting events through the Schlitz Audubon website or their social media accounts.

About Schlitz Audubon Nature Center

Located just north of Milwaukee along the Lake Michigan shoreline, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center is a gem of the North Shore. With over 185 acres of preserved natural land, it offers miles of hiking trails, a nature preschool, environmental education programs, and opportunities to see live raptors up close in their Raptor Program.

It’s a favorite destination for local families year-round, whether you’re wandering the forest trails, exploring the beach, or attending one of their hands-on nature programs. The center’s mission is to inspire and connect people of all ages with nature—and the live owl cam is a perfect example of that mission in action.

We’ll continue to update this post as the nesting season progresses—stay tuned for hatching updates and early footage of this year’s owlets!

Have you visited Schlitz Audubon with your family? Or watched the owl cam in real-time? Let us know—we’d love to hear your favorite moments.

More outdoor adventures in the North Shore