Photo: Eagles at Bitter Lake

Eagles at Bitter Lake

Photo and text by Bruce Hill

Two years ago, eagles built a nest at the southwestern end of Bitter Lake, and the crows gave them a little grief during the season's course.

Bald eagles live about 28 years, can be up to 43 inches tall (tail to crown), weighing about 14 pounds, and a wingspan of 6 to 8 feet. Truly a big bird. To see up close is truly a wonder. When they strike, they merely step off the light fixture and with flat wings, float down to grab their snacks. Their top diving speed of 99 miles per hour is not tested here at Bitter Lake.

This year, these two beautiful birds enjoyed hanging out on the light standards at the Bitter Lake Community playground while keeping eyes out for a furry little rodent trying to scurry across the grass. They were successful at grabbing a snack now and then. The crows left them alone - that is - until they caught a snack, then the loud cawing and dive-bombing became very furious, lasting for the eagle's full-course snack. When the eagle finished, the crows gave them a rest  -  that is, until they caught another snack.

They did not build a nest here this year.

The crows rule these skies.


See previous article on crows from PAWS and this article on baby crows from Christine Southwick.