Sweet Valentines ~ Ethel & Ernest

Regular weekday trip across the 520 Bridge yesterday afternoon, and there on the 'as usual' 2nd lamppost from the Western high rise, south side of the bridge, were Ethel and Ernest. Interestingly enough, Ethel was facing the oncoming traffic and gazing northward, Ernest with his back to the traffic, searching the waters to the south. It is always nice to see them together. Monogamy of the feathered sort, or something. Soon it will be March, and mating season once again. After raising two eaglets last spring and summer, wonder what nature has in store for the happy couple this time around. Have heard no follow-up on the two eaglets that fledged in early August and late August. There is probably not enough territory for the youngsters to remain in the area of their original nest. The vast majority of the eagle population is around the Skagit River, about 50 or 60 miles north of Lake Washington....as the eagle flies. We hope they are well and learning the fine art of hunting. They had good role models in their mum & dad.