Up the Haw River yesterday flew a very determined immature bald eagle. I could see as it banked and reversed course at the tail race of the Jordan Lake Dam that the youngster was one of this year’s fledglings. Fly young one fly, learn how to fish successfully and survive.
Jordan Lake. Captain Doug and I were out on the main lake today – first time since the flooding had occurred. We got to First Nest cove and there was one of this year’s fledglings. Looking like he owned the whole cove. Mom Kate seemed to be happy to ignore her youngster and simply survey the area. Great seeing both mom and offspring! PS some of the Lake’s areas are open… and some are not. If you want to go I suggest calling ahead to make sure the area you want to enter is open.
Jordan Lake. Single bright white down feather cast into the air as a black vulture preens. Sometimes the only picture of a vulture we carry in our minds is that of a vulture during its meal of carrion. Yet, like bald eagles or African lions who become a mess during a meal, vultures also soon cleanse themselves. I would not want to live in a world without vultures and their necessary task of helping to clean our environment.
Jordan Lake. The rushing Haw River continues to escape the dam. The morning golden hour was fading away. This fledgling osprey caught itself a catfish. I caught the reflection of both bird and fish.
Jordan Lake. It is often said the devil is in the details. In this case the details are in the bald eagle. I often tell people if you can’t see a bald eagle: look for bright yellow feet or maybe all you will get is a glimpse of a bright yellow beak. Captain Doug and I came across this eagle last week and he sure put on a beautifully detailed launch.
Jordan Lake. I watched the two-year-old bald eagle launch. Found myself wondering if I reached my arms up high enough towards the sky could I somehow make feathers appear and I, earthbound human, join the flight? Oh my.
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