"TIS THE SEASON"

American Bald Eagle (Juvenile & Adult) - 6 Photos

No - not that season :) ! It's late November drawing into early December - that magical time of the year when American Bald Eagles migrating south from Alaska and Northern Canada arrive in Calgary, many of whom decide to spend their winter here.

As the Bow River in Calgary remains partly open during the Winter, fish can still be caught. And because of the open waters, hundreds of Canada Geese & various ducks remain here as well, rather than do a long migration, making for some waterfowl meals.

For the waterfowl, it also gives them a head start in nesting in the Spring. Unfortunately, that means that some of the Canada Geese decide to give the Osprey nests a go for laying their eggs prior to the arrival of their builders. By the time, the geese realize that this is "not such a great idea", the Ospreys have arrived and begun building new nests. But that's another story!

Taken on two separate days, the first day was a juvenile and an adult in one tree. Assume this was a parent but as you will see from the photos, it still have some dark streaks on its head and tail feathers. 

The second day was one, perhaps two different juveniles. The first flew south eventually and when I eventually made it downstream, there was a juvenile in a tree (perhaps an hour later). Might have been the same one. I love the young juveniles. They are so elegant, standing so tall in their long brown feathers. So much promise ahead for these young birds of prey.

PHOTO #1

PHOTO #2

PHOTO #3

PHOTO #4

PHOTO #5

PHOTO #6