I have written this first paragraph so many times, each time hoping it would improve eventually. Every time it sounded like I knew a lot about eagles, etc. which I sure don't. The paragraphs bored me to tears. All I can really say with any degree of confidence is what I have observed myself.
Lunch
To watch eagles soaring and catching the thermals is best described as amazing. Seeing those magnificent birds soaring high and gliding took my breath away. Then, to gaze at them swoop down to the River, scoop up a fish, and disappear in the trees, well, you just cannot imagine.
When waterways in Canada and Great Lakes freeze over, eagles fly down to my stretch of the country to the Mississippi where the River flows freely and fish are swimming around. Eagles will eat live or dead fish,doesn't matter.
These photos used were taken near The Marina at the Illinois side of Mississippi River, my home area. Closest city for reference is Louisiana, MO, just down the River from Hannibal, Missouri (Mark Twain's birthplace). Bird watchers estimate there are 2,000 birds each year along the River in the zone from Alton, IL, to this area, Pike County.**
Groups of eagles are called a "kettle", at any given spot, and Birders find it difficult to count. With all with their feathers fluffed out for warmth or riding the chunks of river ice, this sight stays in my own memory. No photos are ever needed.
Yet those who wait for the Lord
Will gain strength;
They will mount up with wings like eagles,
They will run and not get tired,
They will walk and not become weary.
Isaiah 40:31
**The photos were taken by a fellow student from high school, Russ Adams. Well done, Russ.
