I was at the Sweet Springs overlook this morning focused on the dark
rufous head of an Eurasian Wigeon, a seldom seen winter migrant,
when suddenly the shore birds, who had been peacefully feeding in the mud,
took flight. A mature Bald Eagle (photo by Roger Zachery) had
catapulted out from his/her hidden perch in a large Eucalyptus on the
edge of the bay. (expand below photo - perch noted by yellow arrow) The
Eagle soared low over the Bufflehead and Teal who did not seem the
least bit concerned that a fierce predator was passing overhead.
The Eagle was focused on a lone Eared Grebe. As it neared the Grebe,
the Eagle, preparing for his dive, circled to gain altitude, then
he/she dove, but the delicate Grebe sensing danger plunged under the
water, and just in the nick of time.
This magnificent
predator was not to be defeated by a mere Grebe. Circling and diving
was repeated several times with no success. Eventually the Eagle headed
back to his/her perch. About 10 minutes later, I had the pleasure of
watching a repeat performance. My conclusion from this observation -
the little Eared Grebe did not want to end end up as a Bald Eagle's
breakfast.
