Yesterday morning I was delighted to spot this immature Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. It takes approximately five years for a Bald Eagle to gets its classic white head and I estimate this one to be about three years old, judging from its coloration.
Initially I spotted the eagle when it flew into the midst of a group of trees. I moved around only a little, fearful of spooking the bird, and captured the second shot below when the eagle leaned forward a little and exposed its head. Moving as stealthily as I could, I maneuvered to a position from which I had a somewhat clearer shot and captured the third shot below. I noted that the eagle was crouching, which is often a prelude to taking off, but the eagle remained in place.
Eventually I reached a little opening and was able to capture the first image, which I think is the best of the group. The tree in which the eagle is perched is, I believe, a sycamore. Unlike the sweet gum trees with spiky seed balls that have appeared in many of my perched eagle shots, the seed balls of this tree appear to be much smoother.
If you are interested in the developmental stages of a Bald Eagle and how its appearance changes over time, I recommend that you check out a posting from onthewingphotography.com entitled “Bald Eagles – Age Progression from one to five years old” that features wonderful photographs of each stage.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Even at a young age, Mike, they always look so serious, …not even a juvenile smile for the camera! Nice pics, as always. M 🙂
What a treat .. Ellen Jennings posted twin young in the nest and now these photos too!
This is a timely post, Mike. Earlier today, one of these magnificent birds flew up off the CT River and crossed the bridge about 10′ above the cars. He almost caused an accident. Not time to get a picture, but he sure was great to see. The bridge is just south of their protected nesting area, I guess the Mrs send him out to pick up dinner (he looked like he was carrying some take out).