After last year’s amazing wildlife viewing from our campsite in Campbell River, BC, Ray and I decided to come back for four months this year and we’ve enjoyed another incredible summer.
One day we walked out to the spit just at the end of the road and there were all sorts of people out enjoying picnics, walks, kite flying, and there were even a few crazy joggers.
“You’ll never see me run,” I said to Ray as a jogger passed us.
With my back problems, running is simply out of the question. But the very next day I was proven wrong!
I left the campsite in the truck. I don’t even remember where I was going, but there was some commotion across the street as I pulled out of the driveway. Hesitating for moment, I decided to stop and see what was going on.
I pulled the truck over, got out, took a few steps towards the beach and was utterly shocked at what I saw.
15 bald eagles!!!! Just standing on the beach eating fish!!!! OMG. 15!!!!
After a moment of being stunned and awe struck, I jumped back in the truck, screamed back to the campsite, and scrambled inside for my camera and my biggest lens.
“Across the street, right now!” was my only explanation to Ray.
I ran.
It caused me days of pain, but it was worth it.
Perhaps grabbing only my biggest lens, a 400mm, was a mistake because the eagles were so close. The most I could fit in one frame was 5.
The photos below show a juvenile bald eagle that doesn’t have his white head yet. It takes about 4 years for them to get their adult plumage.
Campbell River is a popular fishing destination and it is customary to return the fish waste to the sea. Last year I captured the seagulls fighting over the salmon. But this year I guess the eagles were hungry because the seagulls didn’t have a chance.
Just another reason to love Vancouver Island in the summer.
If you’re interested in seeing more of this amazing afternoon, check out Ray’s video. I even make a brief appearance myself.
WOW!!! Amazing, Anne!! Great shots of these incredibly beautiful and amazing birds!
While you may be regret being lens limited from getting a shot of the larger group, take comfort that you have some fantastic detail images of single eagles in action. I am glad I am not judging them because there are too many really good ones to try to pick only one as the best!
Absolutly beautiful pictures of the eagles. I was on Vancouver Island a couple years ago and didn’t see any eagles. It was a very quick trip thru. What campground do you stay at?? I’d love to visit again and hope to see some eagles. Thanks
Judy
Our favourite spot is Thunderbird RV park in Campbell River. There are lots of eagles Campbell River and north. I hope you get a chance to visit, it’s spectacular! Thanks for your comments.
Amazing photos! Wow!
Great shots, Anne.
I spent the same time further up the coast at Hartley Bay. Got some good shots there and enjoyed the beautiful coastal wilderness of B.C.
Love the photo’s Anne! Can you let us know your setting too! I am just a beginner and eager to learn! ; )
Thank you!!
beautiful capture. I love bald eagles and they are majestic. great job, Bravo
Anne, beautiful images of the eagles. What a treat to have seen and photographed 15 eagles feasting. Amazing!