No fishing pole needed when you have talons like this young'un . . .

"Hey Peter, did we make a wrong turn or something? What's the deal with all of this river ice?" "Hmmm, not sure Paul, but sure wish we'd stayed down south a little longer. Whose bright idea was this?" "Not sure Peter, I just followed you . . . "

The late afternoon sun kisses the wings of a bald eagle in flight . . .

This post is about Eastern Skunk Cabbage; there are no wildlife pics (sorry), just images (4) of the first native spring wildflower to bloom in this part of northern Illinois . . .

Target acquired . . . Locked . . . Engage! Poor shad doesn't stand a chance . . .

What's as cute as a bug's ear? How about hummingbird eyelashes!

Juvie Eagle: "Look what I caught Uncle Baldy!" Uncle Baldy: "That's a mighty nice catch you have there young'un, thanks for all the fish!"

It's that time of year when mated pairs of eagles begin their nestoration and do that thing that results in little eaglets. This pair enjoys a quiet moment at their nest during a recent sunset. Wishing them the best for a successful nesting season . . .

Rough-legged Hawk banks to the west after kiting over the prairie in the cold, blustery winter winds. The 2nd image (pano) illustrates well how this hawk acquired its moniker. The name "Rough-legged" refers to the feathered legs . . .

Trumpeter Swans glide with grace across the sky during the golden hour. These are the largest native waterfowl here in North America, can stretch up to 6 feet in length and weigh more than 25 pounds. Such a delight to observe and experience. Learn more about these swans at the website of The Trumpeter Swan Society.