January 17 – My Nature Journal

Bald Eagle

This Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is one of a mated pair that includes my favorite lake in their territory.

I often see one or both of these striking, powerful birds soaring over the water or perched in the highest boughs of trees that ring the lake.

This particular tree seems to be a favorite perch; the chances of seeing one of the adults perched in this tree are very high when they’re visiting the lake.

Surprisingly, these adult Bald Eagles are easy to miss, despite their imposing size and bright yellow beaks and feet. Except when they call to each other, the birds perch motionless, and remain silent. And, while this may not hold true for other individual Bald Eagles, this pair seem relatively unfazed by nearby humans.

The nature trail that circles the lake cuts right below this tree. I’ve watched groups of people walk straight under one of the eagles and not notice the huge bird resting quietly many feet above their heads. Interestingly, the eagles always know the humans are there. I’ve watched the eagles watch the passing humans and find it remarkable that the eagles remain so calm.

But their relaxed attitude works in my favor. I had spotted this bird from some distance away and hoped to get closer so I could catch a photograph. But two groups of people were already ahead of me on the trail, complete with both dogs and children, and I feared they’d spook the bird.

Instead, they continued on their way without pause. The eagle cocked its head to watch them as they passed (although I’m sure the eagle spotted them long before—people with really sharp vision aren’t called “eagle-eyed” for no reason) but didn’t even ruffle its feathers.

That gave me a chance to approach within range of my telephoto and catch these shots. I know personalizing wild animals is foolish and unscientific. But I did send grateful thoughts to the bird for hanging out long enough to make my day.