Cat

This Bobcat met me on the park road as I was hiking yesterday.
Brian Boyd

Bald eagles have 7,000 feathers. Feathers, like hair and nails, are made of keratin. The feathers consist of interlocking microscopic structures that are light, but very strong. Layers of feathers trap air to insulate birds against cold and protect them from rain. Here we have the male eagle showing us his feathers as he approaches the nest.

Brian Boyd

 
 The male eagle gives me a interesting show as he
 protects his nest .


Brian Boyd  4/6/2010



Brian Boyd  4/6/2010

Nest

Bald eagles build their nests in large trees near
rivers, lakes or coasts. A typical nest is around 5 feet in diameter.
Eagles often use the same nest year after year. Over the years, some
nests become enormous, as much as 9 feet in diameter, weighing two tons.
Even when a nest tree falls or a strong wind blows a nest down, the
established pair usually rebuilds at or near the site within a few weeks
if it is near the breeding season. The nest may be built in a tree, on a
cliff, or even on the ground if there are no other options available.

  Eagles are territorial during nesting season. They will keep other
eagles out of their own nesting area. Their nesting territory is usually
one to two square miles.
Here we have the female giving me a stare down as I take her photo.
Brian Boyd 

Fly in

The male eagle gives us an impressive view of his wingspan as he prepares to come into the nest.

New Mom

The new Mom glides softly into the nest as to not disturb her new baby.
Brian Boyd

Step carefully