Sorry for the terrible shots, but as you can see from the full-frame shot in #1, I was too far away.

I do not believe that this maneuver is restricted solely to mating. I see eagles do this at any time of the year, and eagles to it regularly when there are heavy concentrations of eagles after the same food source.

The actual flipping over and presenting talons is done frequently by other birds, although the talons are seldom grasped together. I see ravens and crows perform this maneuver often. I even saw and eagle roll over and present its talons to a raven that was above and harassing it.

When a bird is being attacked from above by another bird, its last defence is to roll over in mid-air and present its talons to the attacking bird.

There is recorded evidence that some eagles do not release their talons and fall to the ground. Some of these receive serious injuries and some die.

#1 of 8

2 - 4

5 - 7

#8 - I am sure I could get better shots if someone would lend me their 800mm for a few months. Or even a 500mm.

Wow, serious game of "Chicken"
Did they let go?? thanks for posting!!
Larry

Great action capture Tony!
In the first one it looks like one eagle is pursuing the other. Thats a fantastic shot with the mountains in the bg!
Apart from the mating ritual it is probably a good plain fight too!
Martin

Tony,
That must be awesome to see in person

Tim

What an awesome action captures sequence Tony. Must have been a wonderful sight to view.
dan

Interesting info Tony. Something about that first shot that is just awesome. Nice work following the action, thanks for sharing this encounter.

Karl

Wow that is cool to see Tony, many thanks for sharing these

Tom

Very cool catch Tony.

Rob

great action shots,
oh to be closer!

Howard.

awesome sequence...

Interesting information and a pleasure to view this sequence Tony... Thanks.

Kirk

Nice ones Tony, I recently saw this conduct and the two eagles free fell and were spinning as they did. They disengaged just prior to falling in the river.

Impressive set Tony, great find!

Dick.

Incredible action Tony. I have witnessed this behavior with two harriers and have dreamed about a full frontal full frame sequence all the way to the river. Thanks so much for sharing this incredible display.

great shots , looks like some birdies are getting a little "air frisky"

Heath

These are really interesting, Tony. I've never seen this action by any birds. Very cool.

Wow Tony, awsome set!