Golden Eagle
Last Saturday, my son and I returned to the Ten Mile River Preserve in Dutchess county. We wanted once last chance to view a Golden Eagle before they head off north for the breeding season.
We arrived mid morning and began talking with two other nature photographers that were already there. One of them was a local who told me that he comes to this location quite a bit, mainly to photograph the eagles. Apparently the afternoon is the most reliable time to see them, but just as he was informing us of this, we turned around to see a Golden Eagle cruising up the valley. I was completely astounded by the majestic flight of this eagle. I have only ever gotten short looks from quite a distance, but this was different. The sun glinted off its golden nape, and I scrambled to get off some shots as it circled overhead.
After a couple of circuits of the field, the eagle settled in a large tree about 800 feet away, and pretty much stayed there for an entire hour. It was definitely on the hunt, and at one point flew down the valley, only to return to the same tree almost immediately. I set up the spotting scope and viewed the eagle, getting looks that I wont easily forget. Apparently the eagles are here because of the easy supply of food, particularly in the form of Ring-necked Pheasants, which are stocked regularly on the property. (Read more about the location in my former post if you missed it.)
We also saw some Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Northern Harriers, hunting over the fields. This capped off an incredible morning at the Ten Miler River Preserve.
You are so lucky! Beautiful pictures, and a rare opportunity
I've never seen one; I wanted to go this weekend but it didn't work out. Great shots, just would have been nice to get a little closer.