Mature and Juvenile Tofino Eagles
This shot definitely needs an explanation.
The eagle on the left is the parent of the one on the right. The young eagle is from last years nesting. They actually had two eaglets.
During the year the young will hang around and be tolerated by Mom and Dad. If Mom or Dad get a salmon,their young will hang around until Mom and Dad have had their fill and than grab the rest for themselves.
However……. when next years nesting season comes around,Mom and Dad will put the boots(talons) to last years offspring !
Thats what is going on here.
These guys are part of the Monas Island gang, as I call them. They are prolific and tolerate alot from their young. Several years of young at that too !
Thanks for this explanation. I watch the Decorah Eagles and now I can imagine why the parents will look out for them for some time to come even though the 3 eaglets have branched and 2 fledged. I think Freckles must be an offspring of some couples you photograph. This gives me hope we fans might see more of the Decorah eaglets. I also follow little Harmon (MN). Your pictures are incredible.