This time of year it is possible to see eagles flying high above Lake Washington or roosting in the top of the cottonwoods by the lakeshore. I love watching them from the bus stop across the street. Here I am - doing a banal activity like waiting for a bus
(more) - and across the street from me is a magnificent bald eagle. I just watch till the bus comes, enjoying the sight.
Its not unusal to see more than one. There are times when three or four may be flying over the lake, dipping and rising on the air currents. From my earthbound vantage it looks like they're having a wonderful time up there.
One would think a bird as large and powerful as an eagle would have nothing to be afraid of. But I've seen an eagle mobbed by crows. This usually happens when the eagle is by itself. A few crows will come and fly around, darting threateningly towards the eagle but not actually attacking it.
At this point one of two things might happen: the eagle gets tired of the unwanted attention and flies off, or the eagle ignores the crows, who get tired of their game and fly off, leaving the eagle alone.
Crows are interesting to observe also. At dusk huge mobs of crows fly towards the Park and Ride, where they roost at night. The sky is loud and thick with their raucous calling. It goes on for half an hour, till the last crow is settled in its tree.
Crows are tough, but eagles are true survivors. They came back from near extinction. Seeing an eagle gives me hope. I could watch them all day and be happy.
(less)
