After Man Throws Shrimp, Bald Eagles By Dozens, Flock to Harbor As Captured In This Stunning Video

Oct 05, 2018

The eagle is a truly inspiring bird. These graceful creatures fill us with awe as we behold them spreading their powerful wings and soaring through the air. Goldilocks, a male golden eagle, is a perfect example of their strength, determination, and tenacity.

Several men from the Friends of Nevada Wilderness land inventory group found this eagle caught inside of a well. They decided to check the situation out carefully to see what they could do to help. They discovered that when the eagle had entered the well in search of some water to drink his feathers had gotten so wet that he was unable to lift his wings enough to fly away.

Even though he seemed hopelessly trapped, Goldilocks hadn't lost his plucky spirit. He behaved territorially when the men tried to help him.

Another species of eagle that's known for its fearless attitude is none other than the bald eagle. As the national bird of the United States, the very sight of this incredibly beautiful, elegant bird fills the hearts of patriotic Americans with pride. Unfortunately, for too long, bald eagles were on the endangered species list. Thanks to conservation efforts, they're making a comeback.

One place where bald eagles are known to congregate in impressively large numbers is in Dutch Harbor, Alaska. This is one of their favorite places to scavenge through the garbage looking for a tasty bite. The locals and tourists affectionately refer to the bald eagles that frequent the spot as "Dutch Harbor pigeons."

Dutch Harbor is a small fishing community located in the Aleutian Islands. With a population of only around 4,700 people, the town proudly boasts the continuous presence of more than 500 eagles.

Associate professor of wildlife ecology from the University of Alaska Fairbanks professor Faulk Huetteman explains this phenomenon, stating that because humans give the eagles food, they're "subsidized predators." Though they still hunt for some of their food in the wild, much of the success of their lifestyle and population growth is due to their ability to scavenge from humans' trash.

A local fisherman named Jessie Peck was on a boat that was docked at Dutch Harbor. He brought out a big bucket of delectable raw shrimp, which is one of the eagles' favorite treats. To the delight and amazement of onlookers, eagles began to flock to the scene.

As Jessie tossed the shrimp onto the deck, more and more birds began to swoop down for the feast. There were dozens of bald eagles as well as some other species of eagles. It was an eagle smorgasbord!

Peck didn't seem to think the event was anything out of the ordinary, commenting that it was, "just another day in Alaska!"

After feasting to their hearts' content, many of the beautiful eagles serenely waited on the deck to see if they would be given a second helping. Though these wild birds were in close proximity to a human, they trusted him and knew he meant them no harm.

The visitors who were privileged enough to be at the scene to behold this amazing sight were in awe of being within just a few feet of birds that most people never have the chance to see in person.

When the shrimp were all eaten, many of the eagles lighted upon the ship in a territorial manner. They seemed as if they were claiming it as their own personal buffet!

For visitors to Alaska, this must have felt like a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. But for native Alaskans, this would just be another typical day. You can check out the scene in this incredible video below!

What are your thoughts about the "Dutch Harbor pigeon" eagles and their feeding time aboard Jessie Peck's boat? Do you agree that bald eagles are inspiring and majestic? We'd love to know your thoughts. Pass this story along to anyone who admires the beauty and elegance of eagles!