I can’t remember if I mentioned if previously, but we purchased a new camera a month or so ago. The previous pictures (particularly the wildlife photos) were taken with a Nikon D70. I actually really like that camera and does a great job with the exception of low light. The 70 can only go to 1600, but the Nikon D90 can go to 3200 which makes it better for the indoor dog show pictures my wife spends her time on. The remainder of this year will be spend trying to figure out how to use all those new features. We took it on a test run up in Davenport IA again and the shots were fantastic. The reduction for this website cuts the quality some, however, they still stand out in my opinion. The image above of the juvenile taking flight is one of my favorites.
For some reason there were no eagles at our standard spot (at the locks in Davenport). It was a little late in the season and the temps were starting to head upwards generally signaling their departure. Disappointed, we headed back to Davenport to see if they were down on Rockingham. As we drove along the river I noticed a pair of them sitting up trees. They were actually perched on the opposite side of the road from the river and basically in the front yard of a mansion.
This had the added benefit of a clean shot since it was the only tree (granted huge) in the yard. I learned my lesson a long time ago, so the image above was a quick shot from afar. Never waste the moment by trying to get too close before the first shot. Eventually, I worked my way a little closer which didn’t seem to bother them at all. It never occurred to me before how much more sinister the juveniles look than the matures. Guessing the juvi is a little cocky sitting next to the 2nd in charge of the skies (Owls being the top of the chain since they will actually attack and kill an eagle). I finally moved into position and capture this stunning shot. The full sized image is a lot better and really brings the talons out on the mature. I’ll probably make this my background.
Follow the jump to see some more pictures we captured while we were up there.
