Well ladies and gentlemen, I think we might have a bit of a poser in our midst at NWMCWC’s West Ardhu site!
[…and no, I’m not talking about Malcolm, who has been braving shorts since March…]
As the single chick passes the two-week mark, Hope – the resident female – has been taking every opportunity to stretch her wings and deliver the kind of jaw-dropping encounters that Mull Eagle Watch is famous for.
With a massive 2.5m wingspan, you’re always going to have a bit of charisma if you happen to be a white-tailed eagle; but as I get to know her better, it strikes me that Hope has a little extra sass and presence – a certain je ne sais quoi.
Part of this is her willingness to spend time directly over the hide, doing nothing in particular. At 10-years old, she seems to exude a confidence that comes with being in the absolute prime of life.
Here are some of my own photographs of her from last week:
Star, the resident male, is a little more clandestine. Though we get lovely views of him coming in and out of the nest, or sitting quietly next to his family, he hasn’t yet demonstrated the showmanship of his Mrs.
One of my favourite encounters with Star was following a band of light rain. He was perched in the nest tree, all fluffed up with his wings drooping, apparently enjoying the opportunity to take a quick shower and dry off afterwards!
At the time of writing, we have yet to see the newest member of our eagle family from the viewing hide. However, it could happen soon! Mull is currently bathed in glorious sunshine (!) making this week an ideal time to come and help us spot Star and Hope’s chick.
Booking is essential, and our ranger led trips are filling up quickly. To join me, Star and Hope at West Ardhu Community Woodland, please call: 01680 812 556
Here’s Hope, giving us a pretty amazing fly-over! You can clearly see her yellow wing tag:
That’s all for now folks, watch this space for more chick news!
Stephanie Cope
Community Ranger for Mull Eagle Watch
To get the latest from our sister site at Tiroran Community Forest, please see:
https://www.rspb.org.uk/community/wildlife/b/mulleagles/default.aspx
Mull Eagle Watch 