Soar Like an Eagle!

Each winter we go to the Mississippi River to watch the eagles who are staying in our area because their own home waters are frozen. They've learned that staying near the locks and dam is a wise choice since the fish are plentiful. We decided to take our annual "field trip" Saturday. This year, though, the mild weather hasn't flushed as many of the majestic birds into our territory.

Sadly, we didn't get a single shot of an eagle. 🦅The few we saw were soaring so high in the sky that they couldn't be caught on film. Some years we have seen dozens perched in the trees along the banks and fishing in the icy waters. Mesmerized, we have observed their every move with our binoculars. We have seen them fly, roost, dive and successfully snag their meals.  Other years have been similar to this weekend's experience. Still, it's enjoyable to visit the banks of the river to see if we are able to catch a glimpse of the eagles. 

 

These pictures are of an eagle statue to show the detail of our American icon. Do you know these facts?

   *Juvenile eagles don't develop their white head and tail feathers until reaching maturity (around age five).

   *Their curved talons are exceptionally useful while catching fish.

   *Eagles mate for life.

   *They prefer eating fish, but will consume other animals. Their prey is always living.

   *Females are larger than males.

   *Eagles live several decades, with the record being nearly 40 years.

   *They claim the record for having the largest nests----usually about 4 by 6 feet!

   *Rain is a problem for most birds and so they seek shelter. An eagle, however, is the only bird who soars above the clouds during a storm.

When you have an obstacle, go above it and soar like an eagle!