Eagles, Eagles, Eagles and ???

Today was a beautiful day we broke the 40 degree mark and had lots of sunshine.  We packed a lunch and drove over to Alton and Grafton IL. to try to get some photos of eagles.

Just across the Alton Bridge on both sides is a bird sanctuary.  This is usually a very good spot for spotting eagles.  We checked out both sides and could see some in the distance. 



Only one was anywhere close enough to get a picture.  

It was doing a little ice fishing.  Last year we saw one get a fish.  We watched a while. It was having the same fishing luck I usually do- so we moved on. 

 

We came upon the one on the left on the river road between Alton and Grafton.
This one looks like a scruffy teenager :) But, I won't pretend to know how old.  The next one we saw was just huge.  I finally got a 
 decent picture.  There was another one close by but I could not get a clear picture.

As I was stalking this one, I thought it was a kestrel but now I am not sure and I was not quick enough to get a better shot.  Maybe Judy will be able to help.  Even though I did not give her much to work with :).

As we started back towards home, we saw one very close to the road.  When I got out to take the picture, I thought " I should have shown Catherine how to use the video camera before I got out, in case it takes off "       And of course................

One more stop at the sanctuary on the way back and we spotted this guy.
I think it might be a kite??

It was a fun day.  The sun was warm, the eagles were majestic and we managed to 
get some decent photos.
It was a great way to spend the day.  It looks like more snow is headed our way this week. So, I probably will not have much to report until next weekend.  Have a great week and stay warm.  See you down the road.