Aguila Custos

Location: Snoqualmie, Washington 2022

In my second year in the Pacific Northwest, I finally secured an Eagle photo. The Guardian Eagle or Aguila Custos is hopefully the first of many. On two other occasions, I saw Eagles, once by my home and another time while driving towards Snoqualmie Path. I could not get to my camera on time in both situations, but I was excited to have spotted them. I noticed they were always very high up on the trees, and they never stayed very long in one spot.

Months later, I began exploring one of the many lakes near my home. So camera in hand, I started looking at all the highest trees hoping to spot any birds of prey. To my surprise, I spotted what looked like a bald eagle. Yes! It was far away, so I had to move quickly to get closer. As I got closer, I saw it clearly, but I noticed three guys flying drones directly beneath where the eagle was perched. Knowing my time was limited, I began photographing. I found a spot directly under and was able to secure this photo. It took me a moment to realize that several people were standing next to me, also looking up. I continued to photograph, but now I could hear the drone. And just like that, the eagle flew away.

Shortly after, I went up to the guys with the drone and mentioned that an eagle was just above them. They were looking around, and one of the guys said we didn't notice. To which I thought, maybe that was a good thing.

*Composite photo: I like to associate my bird photography with clouds, so I often use interesting skies I photograph to composite a more pleasing image.