August 4, 2012 Humbled by Birds

Schooled by eagles

Eagles in Unalaska are like pigeons in city parks. They are perched on every building and sides of hill exchanging their high-pitched shrill.

Eagles on Holy Ascension Cathedral of Christ

This morning, I quickly exchanged positions, as the eagles became my teachers and I, their student. I was definitely schooled by these massive, powerful birds with large beaks and talons.

Walking bridge guards

Two eagles guarded the bridge from above. As I approached, I was closer to them then I have ever been to an eagle …that is, a caged eagle.

Walking bridge in Unalaska

2 guards

Safe crossing?

These eagles were not caged and they were not moving; only staring. Was my safe passage across the bridge in jeopardy?

Staring eagle with strong beak

Here is where my imagination overruled my logic. I assessed my protective gear- my small, hard, camera in one hand and a map in the other. Was that all I had to protect my fleshy, exposed face? The nesting bird sign that I passed earlier did not quell my fears.

Eagle nesting sign

Should I talk to the birds? Yes! I chose a soft voice and asked them to leave so I could continue across the bridge. They were poor listeners. I continued to talk to them as I inched my way under them. Finally, the juvenile flew a few yards away. Then the adult hopped 2 feet away. Breathe deeply. Continue talking and inching my way across the bridge. Success!