As a wildlife photographer, I’m always on the lookout for opportunities to capture incredible shots of nature’s most magnificent creatures. This time of year, one of my favorite subjects is the regal Bald Eagle. From their impressive wingspan to their piercing eyes, these birds are a sight to behold.
During a recent trip to Charleston, Arkansas, I had the opportunity to photograph one of these birds in flight. I arrived early at the Charleston City Lake, camera and telephoto lens in hand, scoping the skies for any sign of the telltale white head and tail feathers.
Bald Eagle Flying Overhead
After about an hour of waiting, I finally spotted a Bald Eagle circling high above the lake. I quickly composed my shot, adjusting the settings on my camera as the eagle swooped lower. The morning sun glinted off its outstretched wings as it surveyed the area below. This was the moment I had been waiting for.
With my eye fixed on the viewfinder, I rapidly fired off shots as the eagle flew directly overhead. The autofocus tracked the bird perfectly as I captured frame after frame. I knew I had successfully photographed an incredible shot.
Arkansas has a thriving Bald Eagle population, and Charleston City Lake is a prime spot to observe these birds in their natural habitat. As a photographer, being able to capture a majestic Bald Eagle in flight is a rewarding and humbling experience. It serves as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of the natural world around us.
Moments like this drive my passion for wildlife photography. I feel extremely fortunate to be able to pursue my craft and share glimpses of nature’s splendor with others. The Bald Eagle is a proud symbol of our nation, and photographing it in Arkansas was truly an epic experience I’ll never forget.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS 7D
- Lens: Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS
Technical:
- Location: Charleston City Lake (Charleston, Arkansas)
- Date Taken: November 7, 2014
- Aperture Priority
- Aperture: f8.0
- Shutter speed: 1/2500 sec. (as determined by the camera)
- ISO: 500
- Focal Length: 400 mm
Here are a few interesting facts about Bald Eagles in Arkansas:
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Bald Eagles were once on the brink of extinction in Arkansas due to habitat loss and hunting, but thanks to conservation efforts, their population has rebounded. Today, Arkansas is home to around 200 nesting pairs of Bald Eagles.
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The best time to spot Bald Eagles in Arkansas is during the winter months when they migrate south in search of food. Many of them can be seen along the state’s rivers and lakes, where they hunt for fish and other prey.
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In Arkansas, Bald Eagles typically build their nests in tall trees near bodies of water, such as lakes or rivers. These nests can weigh up to a ton and can be used for multiple breeding seasons.
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Bald Eagles in Arkansas are known for their distinctive vocalizations, which include a series of chirps, whistles, and screeches. They use these sounds to communicate with their mates and to defend their territory.
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While Bald Eagles are no longer considered endangered, they are still protected by federal law, and it is illegal to harm or harass them. So, if you do spot one of these majestic birds in the wild, be sure to give them plenty of space and enjoy the view from a safe distance.
