Bald Eagle with Kachemak Bay State Park in Background
Not gonna get long winded on this one – just wanted to show some pics from Homer in March. My final trip there of the year, and likely the last time I will witness eagle feeding there. Unless they change the rules. In short, I hope they don’t. I do think it would be better if they would taper the feeding of eagles. I fear that the sudden loss of a food source may kill off several of the hundreds of bald eagles that have wintered over there. Some may say that this is natural selection. However, it is natural selection by human intervention – or rather, lack of participation. A phased tapering of feeding over 3-5 years may be more eagle friendly, but this remains to be seen. I will always cherish my memories of standing just feet (and sometimes inches) from so many eagles. Hundreds of them at times.
Bald Eagle with Kachemak Bay State Park in Background
What an amazing sight. The photographer in me wishes I would have more opportunities like this in the future. But the wildlfe lover and environmentalist/conservationist in me is still very concerned about the drastic impact that we have had on eagle populations, as well as other wildlife species (to include other sea birds native to Kachemak Bay) that have been systematically driven out of the area by a surging eagle population. Not a lot of bird species have much of a chance against a 6 foot + wingspan Bald Eagle.
Bald Eagle Silhouette, Lenticular Cloud at Sunrise
Overall, I believe that it will be nice to see a more natural balance of wildlife return to the Kachemak Bay area. Ok, off the soapbox now & on to the pics. I’d like to hear your comments about the eagle feeding, it’s cancellation, and the possible impacts it may have. Please leave a comment – the floor is yours!
Stay tuned & good shooting!
Good thoughts expressed…makes sense to phase the feedings out over time rather than “cold turkey” (oh ouch, bad comparison). Here in Wisconsin, the DNR has made implemented questionable bans on feeding wildlife over the years and reintroducing species. Won’t even start THAT conversation! Let nature takes its own course but if we interfere, be humane about handing that course back to nature.
A note about the last photo above – The Eagle Silhouette – background cloud formation and coloring is remarkedly close to your Sixtyone North Logo – very clever!! Hope you have a good Easter – talk with you soon.
M & D