The Majestic Bald Eagle

So, I've just returned from a fabulous trip to Maine with my friend Amy and later, my sister Jen. The weather was absolutely gorgeous, minus one day of mellowing rain. We ate lobster galore, watched the sunset almost every evening, and listened to the sounds of the sea right outside of our abode. It was magical. We had heard of incredible animal sightings in the area, such as seals, ospreys, and even dolphins. We hadn't seen any of these creatures during our stay and we were really hoping for a real far-out nature experience.

So a few mornings ago the three of us were sitting in our gazebo when I noticed a very large eagle perched in a tree about twenty yards away. Finally! We had already been in Maine for five days and hadn't spotted but a squirrel and a few crows. I ran into the house to grab my camera, praying that the bird wouldn't fly off. I made it back, shocked that the bird had remained so still. "It must be stalking its prey," I told my sister and Amy with authority. Hey, I watch National Geographic documentaries. I know these things. In any event, we were in awe. It was just breathtaking. My sister decided to move in for a closer look. I was so nervous that the thing was going to freak out and attack her with its talons if she got too close. But, the majestic creature remained perfectly still.

Jen continued to move closer and closer and could not understand why the big bird's feathers weren't blowing in the wind like the leaves of the tree it was perched in. She finally got close enough to discover...it was a fake! Our prankster neighbors had planted a phony eagle in one of their trees. I won't get into the humiliation and disappointment. In any event, you can see for yourself. Now that I look at my several photos it is quite clear. How embarrassing!

We later learned from our hosts that this is a joke that has been running for eight years. They love when their guests are fooled by the fake bird. Maine humor. Oddly, if you want to see a real bald eagle, you can visit Dollywood where they are in great abundance.