Eyeing Eaglets Did you notice those big feet (called talons) with sharp claws? The feet have to grow strong quickly so the babies can hang on tight in strong winds. The kids also need to hang on to the nest when they go to the edge to poop! An eagle can use its sharp claws to dig into a thick tough fish to kill it. It can also shut its claws tight to hold onto a fish or perch on a branch. When mom or dad are in the nest, they ball their talons like a fist so they don't hurt the babies! Next >> Photo: Jon McRay Facebook Pinterest Twitter © 1997 – 2019 Journey North. All rights reserved.