Mr. Eagle and bad news for wolves

I was driving back from a location where I shot some of the hoar frost this morning, and spotted this eagle in a tree close to the road. He didn't seem too bothered by my presence, until I started to set up my tripod. I took this one hand-held from about thirty yards.

I don't know how many times I've gotten up early and froze my butt to try to get a shot like this. Sometimes they just cooperate - most of the time they don't.

D2x
400mm f/3.5
1/2000 @ISO 200

Nice capture! The fast shutter speed makes it look like you used the tripod, it's really clear. It was nice of him to pose so properly for you!

well done

A real beauty Bill. Nice that the light is falling on its face but too bad that the darker body didn't receive the same. I'm sure glad he cooperated with you for this shot.

Nice capture Bill. Glad to see that he kept his head out of the shadows for you.

Thanks for your comments folks. I actually think I like having his body and part of his head in shadow - just seems to add more drama.

You done good Bill! I like the pose, the shadows and especially the closeup view. You might clone out the upper limb since it's out of focus but if it was my shot I'd love just as it is.

I know what you mean about cooperation. I've seen them sitting on a phone pole watching a busy highway and take off and head for the next county when I'm a quarter mile away.

Bill Excellent capture!!!

Thanks Gale and Bruce.

On a different note, unfortunately it looks like wolves are now going to be easier to kill in the western states. I just read the story, and am quite saddened. For those that have seen Tim Ernst's slide show from Yellowstone, I'm sure you too came away with a greater appreciation for these incredible animals. Here's a history of their recovery for those of you that might be interested.

Just 358 days to go...

It may not be too late to get the new wolf slaughter regulation stopped. If you want to raise a little hell about it, here's a link:

http://www.nrdconline.org/campaign/Act_Now_To_Protect_Gray_Wolves_012008

And for those who want to put your money where your mouth is:

https://secure.nrdconline.org/08/wolves_printad2

Fine job with the eagle picture, Bill.

Oof, I didn't mean for the tone of that last post to be obnoxious. Let me rephrase that one line, which I think should have read something more like: For those who would like to pitch in with a little money, here's a link to do just that.

Bill, I really like the way you captured the eagle, the sun is spotlighting his head.