This is an American Bald Eagle, really named Clark, who was part of "Eagle Days" on the Mississippi River. The eagles migrate through St. Louis during this time of year, hunting the fish that are easy for them to spot as the water flows over the "Chain of Rocks" natural dam. Eagles can see fish in the water at a distance of a mile; their eyesight is nine times better than ours. His wingspan is 7 1/2 feet. His gaze was very stern. :). Clark lives at the World Bird Sanctuary, if you are ever in a mind to pay him a visit. I saw several through a scope in the wild today, but they were much too far away to photograph.
Thanks for taking time to visit and comment, as you have the inclination. Enjoy your weekend, all.
10/1/2020: Finished year 7 (!), with continuing gratitude towards this amazing community. Based in St. Louis, MO. Regular worker-bee and self-taught photography dilettante....
Fantastic picture of an American Eagle! Wow, do I wish I could get up close to the ones I see at the river. Was there again just today, but the crowd wasn't nearly as large since the weather's been warmer and fishing is good in places other than just the waters south of the dam. Fav for your photography skills and our beautiful symbol of freedom.
@lyndemc Thanks... he was posing nicely with his caretaker, though. I was out looking for them today, but this guy was as close as I got. All the rest of them were way off in the distance.
We went down to Alton today (my daughter owns a coffee shop there.) and drove up the river road toward Grafton. We saw two eagles, at great distance ~ and about 100 people trying to photograph them. Maybe we'll have better luck when we go back in February! Clark looks like a character, Nice shot!
@melston Oh, fun! I was hanging out on the Chain of Rocks Bridge... they have folks out there with telescopes, displays, etc. It was fun... going on tomorrow, too! :)
The American Bald Eagle is my favorite large bird. I can't think of another being more fitting to be the National mascot. I have a small collection of eagles and have had the privilege of seeing in the wild. I totally love your portrait of this magnificent bird! HUGE FAV!
@kareenking@eyesmile@skipt07 Thanks, folks! Usually, I don't do the "mass thank you" note, but I saw your kind notifications and that is how I found out that Clark had some fame. ;) I am glad for him - he is a very handsome creature, so I was happy that my shot did him some justice.
