On same Friday, waited around a bit longer with feeling that one or two eagles might still be nearby, but out of sight, and not in a rush to make a move.  As I started to slowly ramble back to the car, this beauty emerged from the trees heading west along the river edge but at least 30-40 feet above.  It was taking its time and did not react to me in any noticeable way.  Looked like a first year winter juvenile.  It appeared dark overall, dark brown eyes, dark bill, pale tawny belly that contrasts with dark brown breast, whitish wash inner primaries and secondaries, trailing edge of wings rounded and serrated with uniform length.

More photos:  http://www.pbase.com/birdshots/image/154086912   Click “next” in upper right to advance frames…

Enjoy!

With extra time for eagle watching, spent some time just sitting on the banks of the Merrimack River.  The temps were in the 20’s with light snow and moderate winds.  Encountered this subadult eagle.  It flew a number of times back and forth across the river.  Thanks to review and input from Mark Faherty at Mass Audubon, this bird is categorized as a classic third year eagle.   Mark commented that the whiter the head, the older the bird.  Getting these eagles right, in terms of thier age and plumage is a terrific challenge with no shortcut for the learning curve!  It takes time and patience along with solid coaching from wiser and more experienced birders!  It a blessing when those types of birders are around and willing to help out!

More photos:   http://www.pbase.com/birdshots/image/154086899   Click “next” upper right to advance frames!

Enjoy!

After a visit to the Merrimack River shore and a scanning for eagles — headed back to car to continue on.  Unexpectedly overhead 2 eagles glide by very close, almost too close.  One of them a first winter juvenile and the other a likley  Basic IV pre-adult plumage.  Midday day overhead sun, but here c’est la vie!  In the birding world, always expect the unexpected and for photographer types, always have camera in ready mode!

A few more photos:   http://www.pbase.com/birdshots/image/154085740  Click “next” in upper right to advance frames!

Enjoy!