During nesting season ospreys build a nest atop this tall platform at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, but at other times of the year Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) like to use it as a resting spot. On a recent day when the weather was cold and windy, I spotted this eagle couple resting together. I suspect that the larger eagle on the lower level is the female and the one keeping watch is the male, although the sharp upward angle at which I was shooting makes it a little difficult to judge their relative sizes.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
How great to have the ability to spot those eagles.
Great shot, Mike. Our eagles are now in a protected area. The gates are closed at least until April.
Nice Mike! Always fun to see and photograph Eagles!
You not only found eagles to take a photo of but also identified their genders. Pure genius!
Thanks, Jeffery.
It is surprising there is no messy nest left behind if ospreys use this spot!
That has always been a mystery to me too, Chris. I have seen ospreys repeatedly at that site throughout nesting season, and I have even seen them carrying sticks to it. However, there has never been the kind of larger visible nest that I am used to seeing. The platform is in an exposed location and perhaps the wind or an angled surface keep material from accumulating. It is a bit of a mystery.
What a treat to see this beautiful pair of bald eagles, Mike.
Thanks, Jet. It is always special for me to see eagles, though I am blessed to live in a place where I can see them fairly regularly.
Hi Mike. Separate from the eagles, tomorrow I am publishing a post on world markets and would like to link my readers to your 2019 Vienna Christmas Market posts. Are you agreeable to that?
Thanks for thinking of me, Jet. I was supposed to be back there again this very week, but, of course, covid interfered and I did my work remotely. I am totally ok with having a link to my Vienna Christmas Market posts.
Oh, I’m so glad. Your photos of the night scenes are wonderful, Mike, I look forward to sharing them. Thank you.
I have heard there is one near our house!! I have yet to spot it though. Hoping, HOPING!
Keep your eyes open, Molly. I am fortunately to live in a place where I can see eagles fairly regularly. Nonetheless I feel a special little thrill every time that I see one.