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NATURE NOTES:
Although nearly the same size and structure there are some interesting and significant differences between the bald and golden eagles, especially in their coloring, predatory habits and habitat. Many cultures revere the eagle as one of the most important of
their gods.
Golden
Eagle (Aquila
chrysaetos)
COLUMBIA
LAKE BALD
EAGLES
SCANNING
COLUMBIA LAKE FOR FISH
Reaching adulthood at five years the bald eagle
has a snow white head, neck and tail and a brownish black body. He
has a deep yellow bill, yellow iris and yellow legs. Wingspan 7 to 8
feet. Legs feathered half way down. Immature eagles are brown mottled
whiite. These symbols of power weigh only 8-10 pounds but strike with twice the
force of a rifle bullet. The Bald Eagle is the "National" bird of the United States of America. I often see a majestic pair of bald eagles sitting on two bare branches on the top of a tall poplar on the northeast side of Columbia Lake when I am canoeing. See photo below.
The picture below, with my canoe in the foreground, was taken very near the eagles favorite perch, and looks southwest over Columbia Lake. They are quite used to me by now and, as I am no threat to them from the water, they just sit and observe me observing them. From my nearby vantage point they are an awe inspiring sight with the Fairmont Mountains silhouetted behind them. I feel that they will also warn me with their cackling voices should a bear be approaching.
EAGLE
IN LOW FLIGHT OVER THE MOUTH OF THE COLUMBIA RIVER
EAGLE
TAKES OFF OVER THE WETLANDS
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