Where the eagles still fly
Look up and you’ll likely see (or hear) a bald eagle at Otter Lake. These majestic birds are truly amazing, keeping a vigilant watch over us. The adult eagles are known by their distinctive white head, dark plumage, and yellow hooked beak. The immature eagles are more of a mottled brown.
Eagle’s nest, approximately 6 feet in diameter. The bald eagle builds the largest nest of any North American bird. Photo courtesy Gayle Kirby.
There are multiple nesting pairs of eagles on Otter Lake, and the nests are returned to year after year. Research shows that eagles often return to the area where they were born when they are old enough to breed. Bald eagles mate for life, however, if one member of a pair dies or disappears, the survivor will choose a new mate.
Their nests are substantial, some up to 8 feet in diameter, and built toward the tops of large trees. Eagles tend to nest where there is an abundance of comparatively large trees surrounding a body of water and minimal human activity.
Eggs are laid in February and March and hatch by early May. In early to midsummer you can hear the shrill calls of the young eagles (eaglets) on the shores of Otter Lake, sounding like a harsh, chirping whistle, kleek kik ik ik ik.
Their size is truly impressive. The bald eagle has a body length of 28–40 inches. Typical wingspan is between 6 and 8 feet. The adult birds weigh 7-14 pounds, and females are larger than males. Fish often comprise the majority of an eagle's diet but they are opportunistic birds of prey.
The bald eagle is important in various Native American cultures and is the national bird of the United States, a common addition to seals and logos, coins and postage stamps. The eagle is often used to signify inspiration, release from bondage, victory, longevity, speed, pride, royalty.
To me, the eagle is regal and strong, but also fierce, persistent and unrelenting. A true beauty.
Images courtesy Gayle Kirby, Gregg Smith.