Adventure 009 - Bird of Prey

Capture California, the Game-2012

Adventure: 009 – Bird of Prey

Team: Thing One, Thing Two

Date:  May 25, 2012

Location: South Bay, Millerton Lake

Description:

Phenomenal! What else can you say when a Golden Eagle's shadow comes over your head and then the eagle lands 10-20 yards away? Team Thing One, Thing Two was peacefully starting our Blue Oak Trail hike at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area. We had only gone about 20-30 yards down the trail when the shadow swoops overhead. What was that? A plane? Superman? No it was a bird. A young Golden Eagle. We paused in our tracks, not believing our eyes. This young bird seemed intent on ignoring our presence, which was fine with us. It gave us time to get out our flag for the Capture California picture.

As it turned out, we did not need to rush. The eagle took his time. Looking around, scanning where he landed, drying his wings, squatting a few times, was part of his routine. Even being so fresh from his nest and so awkward, we could only imagine the majesty this bird will become. We felt fortunate to be able to watch him. After about 10 minutes, he flew away. But not very far. Only around a tree. So when we moved on up the trail, we got another view of him. After a time, he flew a little ways further. We were able to view him for a total of 25 minutes. What a treat!






As a note, Millerton is a stopover home for both bald and golden eagles. This is a bit out of season for golden eagles. There usually are some eagles at Millerton all year long. Anytime you see one of these birds, it is a treat.