This is Challenger, the bald eagle who free flies over football stadiums and at other events to the tune of the “Star Spangled Banner.” He was rescued as a baby in Louisiana when he was blown out of his nest and was raised by well-meaning humans. He imprinted on humans and for that reason can’t be released to the wild. We visited the American Eagle Foundation to see their operation but requested to go on a day that Challenger would be there. Such a magnificent bird!

For a wonderful video of Challenger free flying, see http://www.eagles.org/meet-our-birds/bald-eagles/challenger/ I actually get tears in my eyes when I watch it.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, posted earlier: