Spotting an eagle on Vancouver Island isn't an unusual occurrence, about
one-third of North America's Bald Eagle population can be found in Alaska
and British Colombia, particularly along the Pacific coast. We watched this
immature Bald Eagle enjoying an afternoon bath (see image below) in one of
the river estuaries before it flew to its favourite perch to dry its wings.

This immature eagle is dark brown with speckles of white, with a dark grey
bill and dark brown eyes. But, after four or five years, it will reach
maturity and the feathers on its head will become white. Bald eagles may
live for 50 years in captivity, but are unlikely to live that long in the
wild. This is due to natural hazards and the eagles' biggest threat: humans.
Habitat loss due to deforestation is the main threat. Others include shooting,
collisions with power lines and windmills, and mercury and lead poisoning
(which can be contracted after eating waterfowl shot with lead shotgun pellets).

To see more of our Bald Eagle images click HERE

To see postings of others participating in January's Monochromatic Challenge click HERE