My Take Tuesday: The Majestic Eagle

Above the timberline, soaring over the lofty mountains of the Manti Lasal National Forest fly two bald eagles. These beautiful birds fly through the deep blue skies that surround Castle Valley.

For some unknown reason, this pair of eagles chose an unusual spot to make build their nest. Leaving behind the towering cliffs that surround Castle Dale, they instead close a small clump of Cottonwood trees located in the corner of a dry land alfalfa patch.

I recall my father purchasing this land in the late 1980’s. We tilled the blue clay soil and planted alfalfa on the areas that were fertile enough to support crop production.

The very next year, while we were feeding cows, we noticed two bald eagles perched in the clump of Cottonwood trees at the bottom of the field. I recall thinking how unusual it was to see two bald eagles in the same tree.

During the next few months, these eagles built a massive nest. We watched as they carried sticks and bark from miles away. The nest was an engineering marvel, built high in the tree below the crown supported by large solid branch extending straight east. The nest was constructed  with thousands of interwoven sticks. The interior was lined with grass, corn stalks, and other material. The bowl was filled with soft materials and the downy feathers from adults.

I recall the first eaglets born on the farm. In a rare event, one year 3 offspring were successfully raised.

Year after year, decade after decade, this process repeated itself producing many successful offspring.

Each breeding season, material was added to the nest and its size increased by up to a foot in height and diameter each year. The nest became visible from great distances as its size increased.

The bald eagles were a welcome sight. Each year they would appear right before Christmas. I remember seeing them consistently every year while growing up. They stood perched, looking down on my every move. A feeling of safety and security ensued as these majestic guardians stood watch.

Although we all recognize the Bald Eagle as the national symbol of the United States, and as a proud icon of patriotism. I feel they could serve just as well or better as symbols of faithful monogamy. When one of these birds of prey finds his or her mate, the pair stays together for life.

Just this past week, the eagles were spotted overlooking the open fields just south of Castle Dale.

There is safety in constancy, and security in consistency. I am glad that high in the blue skies above Castle Dale, there is a welcoming place, where the eagles fly.

And that is my take.

N. Isaac Bott, DVM