Ted Evans  

Bald Eagle in Flight by Ted Evans

July 2026 - Bald Eagle in Flight

About the Image(s)

The attached image of a magnificent Bald Eagle in flight and a Red-Wing Blackbird that seems to be hitching a ride was taken at a Washington Park lagoon in Chicago. The park has a large population of protective Red-Wing Blackbirds. The Blackbirds harass any sighting of large birds especially the Bald Eagles and ruin any chance that I can get more intimate and regular shots of this raptor. The photo was taken on May 25, 2026 during early morning. I'm concerned that the Eagle(s) may not consider fishing at this lagoon again. However, even with the flaws, this image is worth sharing with the group. I included the wide crop to accentuate the flora.

Exif:

Canon EOS R5 Mk ll
Canon EOS 200 800
Hand-Held
Raw
f/9
1/1250
ISO 2000
ON1 Photo Raw

6 comments posted

Leslie Larson   Leslie Larson
Don't worry Ted, a small blackbird harassing an eagle will not drive it away for long if it's a good fishing locale. If the eagle is a local, you'll have more chances. It does look like the red-wing is riding the eagle rather than just dive-bombing it.   Posted: 07/08/2026 19:52:18
Tom Buckard   Tom Buckard
Ted, I consider this an exceptionally well-captured-and very lucky-image. It's a true action shot that tells a compelling story. It's amazing to see such a small blackbird boldly attacking such a massive predator.

I also love the composition. The tree fills the lower left two-thirds of the frame, while the eagle occupies the upper left third, creating a strong visual balance. Both the eagle and the blackbird are tack-sharp, and from a technical standpoint, everything looks outstanding to me.   Posted: 07/09/2026 01:10:06
Michael Braunstein   Michael Braunstein
I have seen a lot of bald eagle but never
a scene like that. it certainly made me think about what the blackbird was doing. great photo   Posted: 07/09/2026 14:46:03
Veysi Arcagok   Veysi Arcagok
Ted,

The smaller bird doesn't seem to be bothering the eagle. On the contrary, they are flying together as if they were friends. I really like the photo. Congratulations.   Posted: 07/11/2026 06:17:20
Leslie Larson   Leslie Larson
FYI...for everyone. The blackbird is trying to chase the eagle away from its territory. That's what they do. Often small birds will harass raptors to chase them away from their breeding areas. Dive bombing them from above is their technique. That way they avoid those deadly talons.   Posted: 07/11/2026 15:10:16
Tom Buckard   Tom Buckard
Very interesting. Thank you Leslie...   Posted: 07/11/2026 15:31:03

 

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