Re: Early bird get's the picture!

Posted by NewMexiKen on
URL: http://bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com/Early-bird-get-s-the-picture-tp7574424p7574427.html

Thanks for the additional photo, Luis. This is the best depiction of the female (Jewel)'s outer tail feather markings. This demonstrates that the pigmented area is not on the shaft (rachis) of the feathers, but rather out near the tips on the feather vanes. The pattern is symmetrical and probably represents natural pigmentation rather than staining.

The tail feathers overlap each other, with the central feathers on top of the others and the outer tail feathers at the bottom. This arrangement is common to most birds and it makes the tail more rigid when fanned out in flight. When the tail is closed as in this photo, the two outer tail feathers would be entirely visible on the underside.

The position of the shafts in this case show that the marked feather on the left (or right side of the eagle) appears to be the second from the bottom one. It is a bit difficult to say for sure, but the pigment could also be on the second to bottom feather on the opposite side. However, the ragged edges of the feathers may be letting it show through so that one or both may actually be on the third feather above the outer one.

In any event, this feature, along with the rounded and massive-looking head, long rear toe (hallux), large beak with a deep gape which extends past the center of this eagle's eyes confirms the initial impression that this is Jewel. In life her large size is also apparent, especially if the male (Pride) is there for comparison.

The quality of your photo is impressive. Is it a full-frame camera? Did you use a tripod? Big lens? Can you tell I am envious?