An eagle dutifully sitting in a nest along the Mississippi levee.
“Dedication is the hours we put in when nobody’s watching.” ~Unknown
Bald eagle
Looking for eagles
On a recent trip to the Reelfoot area, we were able to spot several eagles. The first one we saw was sitting on a log out in the lake. It was keeping an eye on a flock of ducks that was swimming nearby.
Then we drove to the Mississippi levee and saw an eagle sitting in a tree near a large nest.
Further on down the levee, we spotted two eagles sitting in the same tree. One was near the top of the tree and the other was more concealed, sitting on a lower branch.
No matter how many times you see them, it is always a joy to observe these beautiful birds.
“We live in a beautiful and wonderful world … and the more you know about it the wiser and the better you will be.” ~Louisa May Alcott
Predator or prey?
On one of our recent drives along the Mississippi levee, we came upon what appeared at first to be a tranquil scene. A colony of great egrets, intermixed with a few graceful geese and a great blue heron, was foraging in the shallow water of a flooded farm field. We sat and watched the peaceful scene for some time. Then we spotted it. Sitting on the far shore of the water was a bald eagle, obviously hoping to intimidate and pick off a weaker bird. After further observation, we spotted a younger eagle sitting high atop a nearby tree. It was intently keeping a watchful eye over the adult’s progress and encouraging it on. What had appeared to be a predator in search of small fish or frogs, also turned out to be the potential prey — a hopeful meal for some hungry eagles. Such is the drama of nature.
“The art of simplicity is a puzzle of complexity.” ~Douglas Horton
Side by side
While driving along the Mississippi levee, we spotted these two eagles sitting contently together in the trees.
“Contentment is a state of the heart, unaffected by outward circumstances.” ~Crystal Paine
Stirring up the Snow Geese
The Snow Geese are back at Reelfoot Lake, and the Bald eagles are keeping an eye on them in hopes of acquiring an easy meal. Whenever a lookout detects a threat from an eagle, a call goes out to the rest of the flock, and the Snow Geese take flight.
“If you feel the urge, don’t be afraid to go on a wild goose chase. What do you think wild geese are for anyway?” ~Will Rogers
