raptors

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By Fishing the Riprap

Jordan Lake. The eagle was obviously hungry. The tree was obviously in her way! Then the great blue heron decided that the bald eagle was in its way. Once the fish was in its talons the eagle bolted toward the protection of the trees so no one could steal its breakfast. An interesting flight!

By Kate Launches

Jordan Lake First Nest. Kate is a study in vibrant muscles, fierce talons, flowing feathers, bright eyes, sharp beak and determination. Sometimes I more clearly see the majesty when being able to study moment by moment the launch of a bald eagle.

By Nest Lining Materials

First Nest. Kate is carrying a large bundle of reeds and grasses. She and Bard will use these reeds to weave between the branches that have been added to the nest. This kind of nesting material keeps the eggs from falling through the gaps in between the newly repaired areas. Next step will be the addition of soft grasses to the floor of the nest to provide a soft place for Kate to make an egg cup that will cradle the eggs.

By Bard, Oh, Oops!

Jordan Lake. First Nest. Oh, oops! Dad Bard is persistent! Bald eagles and ospreys both tend to snatch limbs for their nests right off of a standing tree. Bard did that trick and you can see why his choice of branch got him into trouble this time.

By First Nest Repair Work

First Nest. This morning started early with Kate bringing in a small stick to begin repair work on the nest. Every year the parent bald eagles have to make sure the nest is repaired and safe for egg laying and then the chicks. Kate and then Bard bring in sticks and then begin the work of weaving the sticks into the nest. Bard gets rather frustrated and it shows. I have to hand it to him … he does work hard. The last stick brought in is a gloriously long one – twice the length of Bard!