Golden Eagle in flight – Nikon D300, f6.3, 1/400, ISO 640, Nikkor 200-400mm with 1.4x TC at 285mm, natural light, not baited
Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) have thus far been a nemesis bird for me and when I spotted one yesterday I thought I might finally get the shots I have long wanted. When the huge raptor flew closer I thought there was a strong possibility.
If the eagle had flown the other way the light would have been better on the face and the underside of the bird would have been brighter too.
I love the pose, the spread wings, the eye contact and the simple, unobtrusive background.
It is still just “Almost”.
I’ll keep trying though.
Mia
Striking photo, Mia!
Thank you Matt, I’ll keep trying with this species.
Awesome photo, I’ve only ever seen these beauties at the distance through my binos. I’m hoping to get a photo some day too.
Is this a leucistic bird? I’ve never seen a Golden with such extensive white on the underparts and underwing, or even a picture of one. Cool find, still a great shot!
Thanks Steve. I wondered about the whites on this bird, I am not sure if it is leucistic or if that was an effect of the light. I hope to see and photograph it again and perhaps then I will have a better idea about that.
Yes, you “almost made it”, but at least you had the opportunity. I have the same problem with a Northern Harrier, except I haven’t published my “almosts”.
You have a pretty darned good shot, anyway. 
Thanks Bob, I will keep trying for the shots I want of Golden Eagles. They aren’t easy to locate and don’t seem to follow a daily pattern.
I have never seen a Golden Eagle in person so it’s especially nice to view this fabulous photograph. Sensational capture of a most striking raptor!
Thanks very much for your comment Julie.
It’s beautiful in my book Mia. Wished I could see one some time soon. Carol
Carol, I hope you get to see one soon too. They are impressive raptors.
wow, Mia!!
Thank you Judy!
Mia, your “almost” is “nailed it!” for most people, but I love your high standards.
Thanks Julie, I tried again today but the two Goldens I saw weren’t close enough to photograph.
A wonderful capture nonetheless – your almosts are fantastic
Thank you Dan, you are very kind.