It has been 9 winters since I have photographed American Bald Eagles on the mighty Mississippi River below Lock and Dam 14, just north of the Quad Cities. This is one of my happy winter places as this is where the entire wildlife photography journey started back in 2010. The light was all over the place today from heavy clouds, snow, and partial sunshine. Wind was perfect for most of the afternoon, strong from the South. At L&D 14 you want a North or South wind, otherwise you end up with nothing but butt shots. I think I might go back Friday, but we really need more snow on the ground and more ice on the river.
Trumpeter Swan
2.5 year of Juvenile
American White Pelican
Not all fishing passes are successful. I like it when they missed, as it brings several other eagles into the action. This is 1 pound gizzard shad.
Who want to go photograph eagles soon?
Thanks for stopping by and taking a look!
Life is good and I am blessed!
Kent
Their Talons are so sharp, this guy ended up cutting the head off this fish. The body ended up falling back into the water and the eagle ended up with only the head.
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I can’t remember who but somebody asked if I had any cardinals, so I called this guy in for his closeup!
The wind was SO strong it messed with the eagles ability to fish. This one fished with the wind instead of against the wind like normal.
Classic Right to Left Talon pose
I feel the straight on shots are the hardest to keep in focus. Straight On!
Day 2 was brown owls in the morning and eagles in the afternoon. Three to Six inches of snow coming in tomorrow so might have to cut this outing a day early, but going to try to find some Snowy Owls in the morning. Might use Sunday evening for more editing.
