A Bald Eagle by her nest in Tofino, BC. |
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The eagle's mate on another tree. |
Regal and majestic in Tofino, BC |
Bald Eagles
Bald eagles are breeding resident birds of Tofino. They mate for life and use
the same nest year after year adding to it so that the nest becomes quite large.
As in most birds of prey the females are larger than the males. Of course they
are not bald, but have white feathers on their heads and tails. One explanation
for the name Bald Eagle is that bald has meant "white-headed" in the
past. Young eagles are all brown resembling a Golden Eagle, until their fifth
or sixth year. Bald Eagles are mostly fish eating and are part of the sea-eagle
family.
Migrating Shorebirds
Migrating shorebirds find Tofino a safe haven to rest and nourish themselves for
their journey. The birds fly in flock formation at high altitudes and exploit
winds to save energy and not loose body weight on their migrating flight. This
year the winds very favourable and the big flocks of migrating birds usually seen
at springtime in Tofino kept flying to take full advantage. That's why one did
not see the huge number of birds on our beaches this year. Below are two of the
migrating birds, a Semipalmated Plower and a Western Sandpiper, taking some R&R
time on Chesterman Beach.
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Semipalmated Plower and Western Sandpiper |
Touring Chesterman Beach. |
Moving in at low tide to find lunch. |
Western Sandpiper |
Semipalmated Plower |
And bingo - some lunch! |
