We've heard it enough times that it's become sort of a running joke. "Hey, Mr. Quarterback. What are you going to do now that you've won the Superbowl? I'm going to Disney World!". Well last Saturday, 4 rehabilitated bald eagles did win a "Superbowl" of sorts when they were released back into the wild. Find out what they did as they took to the wing.
Before releasing the first adult male, Marge Gibson informed the crowd that it is not uncommon for the birds to dip down and touch the water as they make their flight to freedom. Think of it is a "High-Five" to Mother Earth (Marge also mentioned later on that eagles are actually pretty good swimmers, a "factoid" we forgot to include in our earlier post). In other words spectators, "Don't freak out if he's heading for the water in an apparent crash!".
As part of the "release ritual" with each bird, Marge gently turned their head toward the river and what awaited them when they took to the air. This first adult male didn't seem to have any question about where he was going as he took pretty much a straight line to perch, somewhat awkwardly, in a tree on the opposite side of the river.
By the time Marge had returned from the van with the next bird for release, however, he had made his way to the river and was very obviously loving every minute of it!
"Splish, splash I am takin' a bath!".
"Oh, yeah. I am BACK and AVAILABLE!". Looking good, buddy. We wish you the best.
The 3 remaining birds may not have made quite as remarkable of an entrance into their new lives, but they were no less beautiful in their flight. May the rest of their lives be long, healthy and a joy for those of us who feel that thrill every time they catch our eye.
Labels:
Bald Eagle Days,
Events,
Feathered Hope,
Raptor Education Group,
Release
Eagle Release–Part V: Free Again
Godspeed friends.
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Beautiful Ken and Lisadawn. Great photos and thanks for putting it to words. I had an update today by a reporter friend that saw all of the 4 together near his property. Each eagle is slightly different in appearance and feather pattern. Because he has photos of the released birds he knew their patterns. All four are still together, which is what we hoped for and are eating Gizzard shad as fast as they can talon them into their mouths. Love to hear great news. Thanks again,
Marge