March 22, 2012

Early Bird Special

SDP  3-22-12
I'm absolutely fascinated with the Eddies and their behavior. Last Saturday afternoon, after perching on the cell tower for awhile, Eddie hopped into the nest for a couple of minutes, then suddenly took off. He soared around the perimeter of the nest, and over my head, then returned home. He never went to the bay or a nearby lake.  He was in sight the entire time.  And, yet, somehow this fish was in his talons! (At the time, I couldn't see it with the naked eye. It was only after I downloaded the files that I noticed it.) Very impressive! Could this be how the Eddies teach the little ones to fly with a meal? (Either that, or Eddie was just airing out dinner.) And, check this out...
image_1
Here's Eddie flying up to the nest, wings outstretched, delivering sushi takeout for the wife and kids.  So cool!  A few blogger friends have asked what length lens we use at SDP.  That's a good question!  I have a 75-300mm film lens, but when it's used on a digital body, the film-to-digital conversion adds length. So, in reality, it's probably about 125-400mm or slightly longer, which is how I'm able to get so close and yet stay a comfortable distance from the wildlife.  As a side note, I purchased that long lens for a trip to Alaska so I could get some nice close ups of moose and eagles.  Interestingly, the best shots I've ever gotten of bald eagles is right here in Sarasota, Florida.

7 comments:

Lowell said...

I've got that same lens in a Nikon version but don't use it much 'cause I've got a 300 digital, also. You sure put yours to good use! Wow. These are such great photos. You must use a tripod, right?

That first shot is just magnificent.

Kate said...

That top photo is really special. You have good eyes and know when to click!

Unknown said...

I would never have seen that fish in the talons without your prompting. Very interesting and beautiful shots!

PerthDailyPhoto said...

It's so exciting when you download your photo's and find something special like his, well done SRQ. That's a massive lens you're using, just right for situations like this one. I'm so enjoying this series.

cieldequimper said...

Keep the family photos coming, they are wonderful!

Michelle said...

I really enjoy seeing these. My class has been watching a nature camera of eagles in Decorah, Iowa.

Halcyon said...

these are so fascinating! I have never seen a bald eagle in the wild. You are so lucky! :)