Eagles and Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive

We were up early this morning to get to the Eagle nest on the south end of Lake Apopka for sunrise. When we arrived, the two adults were on the snag to the right and the Eaglet was in the nest. Not long after we got there the Eaglet started jumping/flying from the nest to a nearby branch. It was getting some really good air and appears ready to fledge any day now. After watching the eagles for about two hours, we went to Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. Being a Saturday, it was pretty crowded. There were a lot of the usual birds and gators. With traffic being slow, we didn't see a lot there today, but it was a fun day anyway.

Adult Bald Eagle looking out as junior sits in the nest

Adult Bald Eagles on one of the nearby snags

The Eaglet was getting some air

Big wingspan

Dad returned with a fish and junior called out in delight

Despite there not being a lot of room in the nest, the Eaglet jumps around

Jumping over dad who was busy eating breakfast

Holding air time

Landing practice! Get those feet out front

Dad shows how it's done on the other nearby snag

Touchdown

The Eaglet out on a branch

Bald Eagles rub their beaks on trees to clean them

Looking majestic

The moment of liftoff

Powerful

The Eaglet is practicing the majestic look

Jumping up to strengthen its wings

There were a lot of Yellow-rumped Warblers on the Drive

Great Blue Herons are very good hunters. However, this one found a fish in the parking lot for an easy meal

Great Blue Herons are sitting on eggs in most of the nests right now

There were a few Northern Harriers out today. This was the only one that came somewhat close enough for a photo

It’s always great to get out and observe the wildlife, especially Bald Eagles. The Eaglets will be fledging soon at all of the nests so there will be a lot of action in the coming month. Add to that, the Herons and Egrets will all be hatching their young soon. March is going to be a great month!