The Genoa River Sea-Eagles (Part 1)

On my yearly pilgrimage to Mallacoota, I look forward to the certainty of finding and watching White Bellied Sea-Eagles. Even across the other side of the Mallacoota Inlet they are easy to spot with their bright white body, large v-shaped wingspan and easy flight. One of the better places to observe these large Eagles up close, is along the Genoa River where several pairs have claimed feeding and breeding territories. The nests are reused and built upon year after year for decades until it becomes so heavy that it breaks the tree.  Access to the Genoa River is via Gypsy Point where a canoe can be hired (or launch your own) or can you join one of the regular boat cruises that head up the river for several kilometres. Each year I join one of the boat cruises and try and photograph these astounding birds of prey. The boat captain has got to know the local eagles and if they are in the area can call them in with a screech and a promise of raw chicken wings.
The photos below are from the first of two boat trips I took – I enjoyed the cruise so much that I booked myself onto another one a few days later. You can never have enough practice in shooting birds of prey in action.

White Bellied Sea Eagle, Genoa River, Gypsy Pt

The White Bellied Sea Eagle has spotted the food and starts its dive keeping its head aligned with the target…

Still watching the target…

Angling to keep facing into the wind for lift…

Lining up, talons starting to unfurl…

Extending legs and talons opening

Legs extended, talons open, eyes fixed on the target…

Impact…