SE 6th St., Des Moines, IA

The eagles have returned to Iowa. Below the big dams along the Des Moines River, dozens congregate to fish the open water, especially when the rest of the river is frozen. This shot was taken in February just south of town on the river bridge at 6th Ave. (below the confluence of the Raccoon and the Des Moines)

The eagles and the giant cottonwoods are a perfect match. The huge branches support the equally huge eagle nests, which weigh hundreds of pounds. Yes, there are eagle nests in Iowa, one just a few miles downstream from Des Moines. The tree with the nest was hit by lightning several years ago, and it was amazing to watch the mature eagles rebuild in a nearby cottonwood.

It is a great thrill to be paddling along and see the immature bald eagles (no white head or tail feathers) taking flight.