Eagles in Alaska

Went there once. While walking around a small town observing the homes I spotted a totem on top of one. It was topped with a carving of a raven. While spending a minute or two admiring the sculptor's carving skill the huge bird turned towards me and launched into a loud belligerant cacophony. Startled me good enough to still remember that.

They are spiritual icons to the native Alaskans.

1781371888017.webp

Wikipedia
 
The deck hand is throwing chunks of fish and the eagles fly down and get some in mid air and some off the water. I took this yesterday near Ketchikan.


A former co-worker of mine who worked for the FwS in Alaska was of the opinion that Bald Eagles are like rats in that they're everywhere.
 
The boat was in waters designated as part of Native American reservation. And had permission from the tribe.
Native tribes can have their own rules for most wildlife on Tribal land, but that does not apply to eagles. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940 is very strict.
 
We live with eagles and osprey daily.

Beware the immature Bald Eagle. They will come down on prey they cannot possibly lift even in full adulthood and if they do kill (perhaps an ignorant chicken) they have not the combined grip strength and vertical take off ability - yet.

Mama osprey watching chicks is one of the best motherhood examples. But wow she must tire herself out.

I am so glad they made a comeback!
 
I could write pages here...

My daughter lived in King Cove, AK, halfway down the Aleutian chain. The eagles there were a nuisance, and even a danger. So many it was ridiculous. They swarmed the local dump and any other trash can they could find. Sometimes they would land in the middle of the road and eat some carcass, and bring traffic to a virtual stop. No fear of cars or people.

Then, at her elementary school, small kids could not go out and play without an "eagle watcher" to guard against one swooping down to take a child, it was scary. Forget about owing a mid sized or small dog in King Cove. It wouldn't survive long.
 
Back
Top Bottom