aeries

An aerie, also spelled aerie or eyry (plural aeries or eyries), is the nest of a bird of prey. The term is most often applied to eagles and other large raptors, though it can describe nests of other birds of prey. Aeries are typically located high on cliff ledges, in tall trees, or on man-made structures, chosen for protection from ground predators and for a broad hunting view. They are large, sturdy structures built from sticks and branches, often lined with softer materials such as moss, grass, or feathers. Many species reuse and enlarge the same nest across breeding seasons.

Aeries vary by region and species but share common features: proximity to hunting grounds, strong attachment to a territory, and periodic renovation by the adults. Eagles, particularly, may maintain expansive nests that are used for multiple years, adding material to accommodate growing broods. The nesting season involves courtship, incubation by one or both parents, and feeding of the chicks until they fledge.

Clutch sizes range among species but commonly include two to three eggs. Incubation times and fledging periods vary, yet the young typically require several weeks to months before becoming independent. Aeries are visible indicators of raptor health and can be important sites for long-term ecological study.

In contemporary usage, the name Aeries is also associated with a widely used student information system developed for school districts to manage student records, attendance, grades, and scheduling. This reflects the word’s broader association with nests of high places and oversight.