SAUNDERS PHOTOGRAPHY

01/30/2025

Eaglets Succumb to Avian Influenza

With deep sorrow, we share the devastating news confirmed by CROW during today’s press conference—both eaglets test results confirm they were infected with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).

This cruel and fast-moving virus is relentless, and despite the eaglets’ resilience, they could not overcome its effects. Avian Influenza spreads rapidly among birds, particularly raptors like bald eagles, through contaminated prey, water, and direct exposure to infected birds. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for wild birds, and survival rates are very low.

A Tragic Loss for the Eagle Family

This loss is profoundly heartbreaking, not only for those who have followed their journey but also for M15 and F23, who worked tirelessly to protect and provide for them. Nature can be incredibly harsh, and today, we grieve alongside all who loved and cherished these young eagles.

Thank you to everyone who has supported and cared for them throughout their short lives. Your love and dedication to this eagle family mean so much. Let’s honor their memory by continuing to protect and advocate for these magnificent birds.

Fly high, little ones. You were deeply loved. 💔🙏🦅

01/28/2025

This is truly a heartbreaking and difficult situation to witness. At 2:55 AM, E25 fell from the nest after exhibiting a lack of balance and neurological symptoms, a devastating moment for all who care so deeply about this family. It’s especially concerning to notice that one of the adults is exhibiting ruffled feathers—a possible sign of stress or illness. My prayers are with M15 and F23, hoping with all my heart that they remain healthy and resilient through these unimaginable challenges. Nature can be so harsh, but let’s continue to hold onto hope and surround them with our support and positive energy.

01/27/2025

It is with a heavy heart that I share the devastating news that E24 has suddenly passed away at approximately 6:41 PM. Fly high and free forever, dear E24.

It took me a couple of hours to compose myself enough to write this post, as this is truly a very sad and heartbreaking day. Thank you for understanding and for keeping E24 in your thoughts.

01/23/2025

Watch as F23, the devoted eagle mother, showcases her unmatched grace and determination. With a freshly caught fish clutched in her talons, she soars effortlessly through the skies, returning to the nest where her hungry eaglets eagerly await.

Her arrival sparks a flurry of excitement, and with tender care, she begins the meticulous task of feeding her little ones. Every piece of food she delivers reflects her unwavering commitment to their survival. Witness her strength, precision, and nurturing instincts in action—a true testament to the dedication it takes to raise the next generation of majestic eagles.

This breathtaking display of love and resilience is a reminder of the remarkable effort these incredible parents put into providing and protecting their young. F23 truly embodies the spirit of an eagle mother. 🦅❤️

01/20/2025

In this stirring footage, observe F23 as she takes flight with unparalleled grace, her powerful wings propelling her skyward. This majestic ascent coincides with two monumental moments in American history: the inauguration of the new president on January 20, 2025, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

MLK Day, observed on the third Monday of January, honors the life and legacy of Dr. King, a champion for equality, justice, and unity. The day’s alignment with Inauguration Day underscores the shared ideals of freedom, progress, and equality that bind the nation together.

Inauguration Day has a rich history, dating back to George Washington’s first swearing-in on April 30, 1789. The date was later standardized to January 20 after Franklin D. Roosevelt’s second inauguration in 1937. Did you know that John Quincy Adams was the first president to take the oath on a book of laws instead of a Bible, symbolizing his dedication to the Constitution? Or that William Henry Harrison gave the longest inaugural speech in history—over 8,000 words—on a cold day in 1841, which unfortunately contributed to his untimely death?

President John F. Kennedy once beautifully described the bald eagle as “the living symbol of all that we hold dear—freedom, strength, and grace.” These words resonate powerfully as F23 soars to new heights, embodying the resilience, strength, and hope of a nation embarking on a new chapter. Witness this symbolic flight—a reflection of America's enduring journey toward justice and renewal.

01/15/2025

Prepare to be amazed by F23's incredible aerial acrobatics as she swoops down and grabs a clump of moss mid-air with precision and grace! 🦅💚 This breathtaking display of skill and care showcases her unwavering dedication to her eaglets, ensuring their nest is always fresh, comfortable, and cozy. Watching her in action is a reminder of the beauty and devotion of eagle parenting. Join us in admiring this magnificent moment as F23 proves why she’s the ultimate nest-builder extraordinaire!

01/14/2025

Have you ever witnessed an eagle cast a pellet? You're in for a treat! In this incredible footage, M15 shows off one of nature’s fascinating yet lesser-known behaviors. But wait—what’s a pellet, and why do eagles do this? Let’s break it down!

A pellet is a small, compact bundle of indigestible bits like bones, fur, or feathers—leftovers from their meals that eagles can't digest. Rather than letting these accumulate, they regurgitate the pellet to keep their digestive system in top shape. It's nature’s way of saying, “Stay sharp, stay healthy!”

Watch closely as M15 works his magic, and witness firsthand what makes bald eagles such extraordinary predators. It’s a moment that showcases their amazing adaptations and adds another layer to their already awe-inspiring story.

Have you ever seen this behavior in the wild? Share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments below—we’d love to hear your eagle tales! 🦅💬

01/13/2025

In this captivating episode of "The Art of Eagle Parenting", we witness the tireless dedication of M15 and his partner in raising E24 and E25. The work of eagle parents truly never stops! This time, M15 delivers an unusual prey—a crow that he skillfully chased and caught in the west pasture. As he lands on the nest, Mom swiftly joins him, initiating an essential lesson in eagle survival skills: mantling.

Mantling is a behavior where an eagle spreads its wings over the captured prey to shield it from potential thieves. It’s a vital skill for young eaglets to learn, ensuring their meals remain theirs, even in the presence of other predators or scavengers. While Mom is teaching and feeding the eaglets, Dad flies off and returns with a sturdy stick to reinforce the nest rails, demonstrating the constant teamwork required to raise their young.

Mom’s expertise shines as she carefully divides the meal between E24 and E25, showing patience and precision even as she attempts to swallow the crow’s remaining feathers—a common but challenging task. Once every morsel has been consumed, Mom takes the leftover remains to the east pasture, a calculated move to prevent scavengers from being attracted to the nest.

As the video concludes, we observe a fascinating behavior known as feaking. Feaking is when a bird cleans its beak by rubbing it on a surface—here, Mom uses the nest tree to polish her beak after the meal. This behavior is not only hygienic but essential for maintaining a healthy, functional beak.

Join us for this remarkable glimpse into the tireless efforts and teamwork of eagle parenting, where every action—feeding, teaching, and maintaining the nest—ensures the safety and growth of the next generation of majestic birds.

📸 Captured in stunning 4K, this footage is part of a series that showcases the incredible lives of M15 and F23 our beloved bald eagles. Don't forget to like, comment, and share to help others experience the beauty of nature!

In this captivating episode of "The Art of Eagle Parenting", we witness the tireless dedication of M15 and his partner in raising E24 and E25. The work of ea...

01/12/2025

📸 M15 launches into the air with powerful wings fully extended, his sharp gaze focused and talons poised—a breathtaking moment of strength and precision as he takes flight.

01/11/2025

Watch as F23 and M15 display remarkable teamwork while preparing their nest for cooler days in Southwest Florida. In this heartwarming footage, Dad delivers a catfish to stock the pantry, ensuring plenty of food for the family. Mom follows with a large bundle of insulating vegetation, skillfully spreading it across the nest to create a cozy, protective layer for the eaglets as temperatures dip.

This devoted pair embodies the dedication and care that make bald eagles extraordinary parents. Don’t miss this glimpse of their incredible preparations for the season ahead! 🦅🍃🐟

Watch as F23 and M15 display remarkable teamwork while preparing their nest for cooler days in Southwest Florida. In this heartwarming footage, Dad delivers ...

01/06/2025

F23’s High-Speed Descent: Witness the Power and Precision of a Bald Eagle in Action!

Prepare to be amazed as F23, the majestic bald eagle, showcases her incredible aerial prowess in this breathtaking footage. Watch her descend at breakneck speed from a high altitude, reaching speeds of up to 100 miles per hour in a classic stoop. Witness the sheer precision and power as she folds her wings tightly, minimizing drag and demonstrating the unmatched agility that makes bald eagles the dominant hunters of the skies.

The video begins at 100% speed, capturing her dive's raw intensity, then slows to 30% speed, allowing you to appreciate every detail of her remarkable maneuver. From her streamlined form to the grace of her movements, this is a must-watch moment that highlights why bald eagles reign supreme in the air. 🦅✨

01/04/2025

In this heartwarming clip, witness the undeniable bond between M15 and F23 as they perch together on the iconic west pasture driveway snag. Their shared moments reflect the strength and affection of their partnership, a testament to their incredible teamwork as bonded mates.

After sharing their intimate experience and strengthening their connection, M15 flies back to the nest tree, where his presence ensures everything remains secure. Meanwhile, F23 embarks on a purposeful mission across the west pasture. With remarkable determination, she selects and collects a sturdy stick to reinforce their nest.

This teamwork is essential as they manage the growing eaglets, tirelessly ensuring their adventurous spirit stays safely contained within the nest. Their dedication to parenting and preparation exemplifies the art of eagle life and the beauty of their instinctive roles.

Let this special footage inspire you, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below!

01/03/2025

Join M15 and F23 as they diligently provide for their young in the peaceful embrace of the pines. Watch these majestic bald eagles bring fresh catches to the...

12/30/2024

12/27/2024

Daddy Dash ~ M15

12/23/2024

F23 radiates elegance as the golden sunlight beautifully illuminates her feathers, showcasing her regal presence.

12/23/2024

The Art Of Eagle Parenting!

M15 is always hard at work, ensuring the safety and comfort of his growing family. While Momma was busy feeding E24 and E25, Dad ventured to the east pasture...