The boat rocked on the gentle swell in Loch na Kreal
under an unaccustomed clear sky and warm sun for this cold May. The sea eagle, the flying barn door, left its
perch on the distant Scots pine tree, by its nest containing two chicks and
headed our way, gradually increasing in size in the lens like some V bomber of
yesteryear. It flew in low and, as it
neared the boat, gained height, circled to pinpoint the fish and, with a flick
of the tail plunged down, thrust out its talons, scooped up the prey amid a
spray of crystal clear water and headed back to its young, mobbed by gulls all
the way. What a sight! Today must rank as one of my best wildlife
experiences ever: a day of sea eagle photography with Mull Charters on the
small boat Lady Jayne skippered by Martin, who has been running these trips
from Ulva Ferry into Loch Na Keal, Mull for several years. We had booked for a trip last Wednesday but
it had been cancelled in view of the awful weather, but we had been able to re-book for today. We were up early and
away for 8.30 to be ready to board at 9.45.
Once in position we had the amazing experience of watching and
photographing three visits from these stunning birds, attracted by the fish
thrown out by the crew; one fish per visit.
The eagles appear to recognise the boat and know when to make their
approach. Martin is careful to ration
the fish provided so that the eagles do not come to rely on the food source and
need to hunt for themselves. An added bonus was the excellent views and photo opportunities of the great northern diver on the way to the site.
Back at the site, ready for our meal at the excellent
Craignure Inn we were pleased to get our first clear view of Ben Nevis with a
thick covering of snow.
What a day to live in the memory banks.
To view large, please click on an image.
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