One Hazy Morning On Stewarts Landing

There was a time when sleep was less of a challenge.  However, rising shortly after the sun does provide opportunities.  Sipping coffee and idly looking out the window is one, particularly when that window provides a view over the water to the forest beyond.

What's that white spec in the trees?

Looks like an eagle.

Yes, definitely an eagle.
Of course, he is not following the modelling agreement,
and has landed too far away on a hazy low-light morning.
On the positive side, this provides excellent rationalization
for expensive new camera equipment.

"You lookin' at me?"

"I really don't care."
He sat for 40 minutes,
waiting for the easily distracted photographer
to lose interest.

Fortunately, there was enough coffee
to merit waiting until he finally prepared for action!
(This shot taken just after the impressive weight reduction technique
all birds use prior to take-off.)

Now away, down low over the water.

A quick splash and upward again.

It appears a fish has taken advantage of the eagle's
"Swim near surface, fly high" offer.

But the fish won't be taking advantage
of that offer again.