Incredible Flying Fisher-birds

The American Bald Eagle is stunning to watch on the rare occasion that one has to observe such a sight. Only since 1997 have the eagles been showing up in late January to feed off the dam at Starved Rock State Park. The Illinois River, below the dam, provides a perfect winter fishing spot for Bald Eagles who have headed a bit south from the northern states or from Canada. Mr. Mellow and I spent a lovely (albeit freezing) morning watching and photographing about 170+ eagles on Saturday. It was one of the largest populations that the Audobon Society has seen to date in this spot. And it was our first visit so we considered it a bonus. They were perched in the trees resting, they were flying around and around over the dam, as they took turns diving into the open waters using their talons to catch fish. Sometimes they dropped them, but many times they flew up into a tree to eat their breakfast.

It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life - something I have longed to do for at least ten years, when we first heard about the Starved Rock eagles. It is only about an hour away from home and we stayed in a rustic cabin Friday night. We were lucky to get a reservation since we decided only a few days prior. We were lucky that the weather was sooooo cold (but not windy), because that is when there will be the most birds. We were just plain lucky. I took 120 shots and it was difficult to choose one, but this one, with only two birds, gives a good representation of our general vantage point. We will make this an annual event but between now and then I think I must invest in a telephoto lens and I must learn how to shoot moving objects off in the distance. How can I learn such a thing? Any pointers or recommendations? Equipment?

Eagle facts:

Open wing span - 7-8 feet
Only mature birds (4-5 yrs. old) have white head/tail feathers
Both male and females are 'bald' but females are larger than males
An eagle can eat a pound of fish in four minutes