Heading towards Kamloops, we were suddenly aware that there were over 50 bald eagles in the trees to the right of us, near the city of Chase, British Columbia.
Within 30 km of Chase are 4 Provincial Parks that protect the wildlife in this region. Thus why there are so many critters.
It was interesting for me to learn that a bald eagles isn't actually bald at all. It comes from the word 'piebald' which means spotty or patchy. The eagle actually has white feathers covering it's head and tail. Babies or Eaglets are not born with a white head. Their brown feathers will not turn white until they are about 4 years old!
An eagle in flight. The average wingspan for an eagle is more than two meters.
'When a bald eagle loses a feather on one wing, it will lose a feather on the other in order to keep its balance.' National Geographic for kids
Their diet is a wee bit scary. Primarily fish but if they can't find fish, they will also rabbits, squirrels, birds and even young deer???
Bald eagles mate for life.
Apparently their courting dance consists of dancing in the sky with talons locked and cart-wheeling through the air. Dinner and a show works too. Just saying.
When eaglets are born, they have quite the challenge ahead of them. Only about 50 % will survive.
But if they do....an eagle can live between 25-40 years.....wow.
The bald eagle has no predators aside from humans. If the population of the eagles begin to decrease it is because of human interference. These majestic birds try to habituate near bodies of water, in a wooded area, away from humans.
These incredible creatures can be found mostly on the Pacific coast of British Columbia.
I hope you get a chance to see an eagle in the wild. An amazing, intimidating and regal bird....and remember...keep your distance and let them be.
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