Jordan Lake: Bald Eagle Nest Report: H&G NestI watched Dad Hershey go past with a large, rather branched repair stick for his nest. Not more than 200 feet behind him came Mom Godiva. More often than not it is the dad bald eagle that carries the branches and mom who does the reconstruction work. But, I have seen moms carrying sticks and dads hard at work patching the nest. Good to see the work going forward for the breeding season.
Jordan Lake Dam, Haw River: I recently found out that this particular plumage pattern is called a “white belly” bald eagle. This youngster is one of this year’s fledglings. I see one or two of these white bellies every year. The eaglet will be mostly brown by the time it is a 3-year-old.
Kate, who is one big bald eagle, floated past me surveying the cove. She will be laying this season’s new eggs in about 6 weeks.
Petruchio was putting repair sticks into the nest, getting ready for the new breeding season.
Petruchio (look directly above the nest) is taking a break. It was great seeing the pair preparing for a new family!
Jordan Lake: I am free in my pursuit to photograph our National Emblem because the Veterans we honor this Veteran’s Day gave us a gift we can just barely understand. These Veterans had the courage to accept the call to protect the Liberty enshrined in our Democracy – they accepted even though they might die for their faithfulness. My heartfelt thank you to those Veterans who are now memories and to those who still breathe the air they help protect. I hope this image of the American Bald Eagle can say what my words cannot speak: your selfless dedication soars on the Wings of an Eagle.
Captain Doug and I were on the lake, checking bald eagle nests and enjoying the beautiful autumn day. We came upon a small flock of common loons who were also enjoying the warmth. Loons are winter visitors here and their lovely calls can be heard in the early mornings and late evenings. Captain Doug tried to ease in front of the loons so I could get some face shots, but, the loons easily grouped, turned direction and then lined out and left us behind. They are fast swimmers and they left me and the little iPhone behind a couple of times too!
Oh, I was grumpy, yes I was at sunrise this morning. The fog was heavy over the river and all up in the trees. Grump, indeed, as any birds were well-hidden. I kept looking down the river where I just could see an adult bald eagle, silent in the mist. The sun eased up the sky and suddenly there was light caught in the trees. “That would be a pretty landscape shot,” I thought, “and maybe the eagle will be visible in the photograph”. Snap. I took the shot and forgot about it until just now. Oh, my. Light suffused and showing plainly that there were 3 bald eagles in the tree. My grump got dispelled as I planned to share with all of you. Take care, be safe. Stay well.
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