Golden eagle~Wild Bird Wednesday~112812

There are golden eagles in the Anza Valley and this is the second time I've seen one.  The first time, I saw one take off from their "Welcome to Anza Valley" signpost.  I was driving by early in the morning, on my way to the feed store, when I saw a movement out of the corner of my eye.  The eagle was just taking off from the sign.  I was so shocked I nearly drove my car into the sand!  By the time I fumbled around and got my camera out, it was long gone.  That was about 5 years ago.  I had not seen an eagle since then, until Sunday, when I was once again driving to the feed store.  I saw something BIG on top of a telephone pole and, being older, wiser, and more experienced, I slowed down, got the camera out and ready, and stopped my car.  I stayed in it and slowly drove forward because I didn't wish to scare it off.  I knew it was an eagle because of its size and also look at the feathers on its legs.  I mean, this guy was HUGE!!!  He did take off and I got a few photos of him before he drifted over to another empty field, looking for his breakfast.  I am pleased that I was here, at the right time, and was able to get a few pictures of this beautiful bird.  Wild Bird Wednesday for November 28, 2012. To visit WBW, please go to:    http://paying-ready-attention-gallery.blogspot.com/