Seward, Alaska
I just happened to be passing by the waterfront when I saw BALD EAGLES diving from the sky and nearby tree perches to the beach rocks. I quickly parked and grabbed my camera. A large female sat on a rock with what appeared to be a rockfish carcass. A brave NORTHWESTERN CROW invited itself to the adjacent table, just out of reach.
Other Eagles piled in, crashing the party, much to the consternation of the beleaguered diner. Six or seven hungry, powerful Eagles jockeyed for a strategic position for thievery or reallocation. She fended them off, and even grabbed one by the foot, talons to talons. Then she snatched the fish and flew off, accompanied by a fiercely determined Eagle intent on theft. Exit entangled screeching pair stage right.
Enter more magnificent Eagles stage left, one with another fish carcass. Another stressful dining experience ensued, as dive-bombing Eagles replaced one diner after another. Each managed only a few bites before being bumped. Of note, one Eagle had a fractured upper beak on the right side. Finally, one female managed to subdue all comers and gobbled down chunks of fish. When she finally flew, not much was left.
GLAUCOUS-WINGED GULLS circled warily, unwilling to risk landing. After a sufficient eagle-free time passed, the Gulls finished it off with as much lively discussion and squabbling as possible.
Quite a show!
Happy Birding!
Carol Griswold
Seward Sporadic Bird Report Reporter
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