bald eagle fledgling

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By Jordan Lake Bald Eagle Fledgling: H&G Nest 06-01-2019
Well, Dad Hershey had made this landing look easy and so his fledgling gave it a try.
But sticking a landing on a small round jagged top of a snapped-off tree trunk is an exercise that takes a lot of practice.
Just where do you place your feet when there is no limb which you can wrap your talons around?
This fledgling finally got both feet on the snag and was very proud of himself.

By Jordan Lake Bald Eagle Fledge: H&G nest, 9 photos 05-28-2019
H&G Nest
 
I found Godiva sitting to the far left.  One chick on the rim of the nest.  One chick to the far right on a branch.
Mom Godiva flew out and I tracked her only to realize that one of the chicks had flown too!!!
I don’t know if the chick had fledged yesterday or today, but I am happy for the new flier.
The fledgling flew, circled, got tired and even though about 500 feet from the nest, dropped his feet for landing.
All fledglings make controlled crashes for landings.  This fledgling almost forgot to put on the brakes!
He was still going full speed when he disappeared from sight behind the main trunk.

By Jordan Lake Bald Eagle nest report: First Nest, 4 photos 05-04-2019
First Nest
Even if you ARE a bald eagle, some birds just don’t give you any leeway.
The eastern kingbird took great offense that Cacao flew too close to its nest.
The parent kingbird (about the size of a robin) promptly chased Cacao out of the area.
BTW I have seen kingbirds actually land on the backs of both adult and juvenile eagles.
Looks like a jet landing on an aircraft carrier.
Sometimes the kingbird gives the eagle a peck for good measure!  But, not in this series.

By Jordan Lake Bald Eagle nest report: First nest, 4 photos 05-02-2019
First Nest
 
Both of the chicks have fledged!
 
Kate is not too impressed with Cacao’s semi controlled crash landing.
 
 
While Cacao is trying to get the landing finished, Caramel comes zipping by.
 
 
Kate watches as Caramel makes a landing much further down the tree.
 
 
Just like any offspring, Cacao imitates mom even though Kate is still not impressed!