I've been wondering where the Eddies, the urban eagles in Sarasota, were nesting this season. Then, I spotted them high in the left field lights at Ed Smith Stadium where the Baltimore Orioles play spring training baseball. (The Orioles call the stadium 'Birdland'. So, you could say our national bird prefers Birdland…the eagles are roosting at Birdland etc. How perfect, right?)
I captured this shot as the sun was rising over the stadium two days ago, and one of the Eddies, apparently, decided to set out for breakfast. Since discovering the nest a couple of weeks ago, I've been keeping a close eye on it. That's because the last time the Eddies nested in the stadium lights (four years ago), state wildlife officials allowed the Orioles to have the eagle eggs removed and shipped to Tennessee for incubation. Then, the nest was destroyed in hopes the eagles would not return. At the time, wildlife experts said they permitted the egg removal and nest destruction because they were concerned about the safety of the eagles since the stadium was under renovation. The local newspaper wrote this article about the eagles' eviction. I also blogged about it here.
So, fast forward to present day…and, I'm hearing that the nest will be destroyed. I hope that's not true. The Eddies have constructed a nice nest, and should be very close to laying eggs. (Ozzie and Harriet in Ft. Myers layed eggs a year ago this week.) So, if the Eddies' nest is destroyed, where would they go at this late date to lay eggs? I understand that urban eagles can be destructive. And, there could be potential problems with turning the stadium lights on with a large nest up there. But, an accommodation needs to be made for this season for our national bird. I'll remain hopeful for the Eddies. And continue to wait and watch.
11 comments:
Do those in authority think they know best? I have been known, and still am, to be practical .Why don't they built another platform, suitable height. in a safe place. away from the lights, and the nest could stay. But, do the birds nest there, and benefit from the warmth from the lights? Please keep us posted, and as always, super photo, you nailed it totally. Jean.
It's always so sad when nature has to suffer because of mankind's intrusions. What a beautiful nest. The morning light is so pretty. Great capture!
Oh no! Maybe if there's enough protest the nest can be saved SRQ.. let's hope so.. will be waiting to hear.
Wonderful shot! I can't stand the thought of that nest being destroyed.
... or the results could be 'shocking' to the birds, and I don't mean thhe Orioles playing baseball on the diamond.
I'm hopeful too! Wonderful, informative story.
Very cool photo! I've never seen an eagle's nest in a man-made structure like that. I hope it works out for the good of all.
This is a tough one. I see both sides. After eagles previously built a nest there, they should have put some wire up there to discourage them from doing it again.
Hey! Aren't bald eagles a protected species?? What a mess!
(Though I do like your shot!)
Ah... the drama continues. Ck out Decorah eagles in Iowa.
Just Google 'Decorah Eagles'.
Pretty cool. Watched them all last late winter/spring on their webcamera.
This is one excellent shot!
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