In My Own Backyard

Yesterday Joe and I had headed to Fountainebleau State Park in hopes of spotting a Bald Eagle, and we were not disappointed. As soon as we arrived, we were given the opportunity to view an eagle through Ranger Steve's telescope. According to Ranger Steve, we were looking at the female, which is the larger of the pair. The eagle sat in a nest estimated to be 3 feet deep and 6 feet wide near the top of a tall pine tree. When she sat up her white head could be spotted from the road where we stood, but to get a better view we used our binoculars and telescope.

Ranger Steve explained how the male and female eagle return to their nest each year and add to it. Last year the pair had two baby eaglets, so this year he's hoping for three. He added that the eaglets remain with their parents for approximately two months.

After viewing the eagle, we got another treat. Ranger Steve brought us to an old dead tree where a wise Horned Owl lived.

Below is a picture of the pine tree where the eagle's nest is located. Look closely and you will see a dark area on the right side which is the nest. I wasn't close enough to get a picture of the eagle, but I am going back.

Below the picture of the pine tree is a picture of the Great Horned Owl. Isn't he adorable?