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| Chat - Tuesday, May 1st, 2012.; A new day and month to watch our eaglets grow! | |
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| Tweet Topic Started: May 1 2012, 03:26 AM (536 Views) | |
| Artsy Mom | May 1 2012, 07:31 AM Post #16 |
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Eagle Guardian
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on your first day back ES
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| Artsy Mom | May 1 2012, 08:14 AM Post #17 |
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Ed Clark described the release of the CP on the WCV blog lastnight...here's an edited a transcript because he is so ![]() ![]() ![]() 9:58 Ed Clark, WCV: As most of you know, we almost decided to euthanize the Camp Peary eagle on several occassions, due to the lack of progress. But, there was just something that convinced the vet staff to "give him a little more time"...... Maybe actual progress and maybe just plain old attitude. But, whatever the reason, "tincture of time" proved to be the cure.... 10:00 Ed Clark, WCV: The CP eagle has made very slow but steady progress, between flying into walls, breaking feathers and otherwise not being cooperative. Still, he finally came around, and today was the day.... He was released at about 4:30 this afternoon, back where he was originally found, about 300 yard from the banks of the James River, on the grounds of Camp Perry, near Williamsburg. 10:00 Comment From Lydia, PA Camp Peary was just getting revenge on you for givning him the DIVA as a pen mate...... 10:01 Ed Clark, WCV: You may have a point on that one!!! He was darn sure interested in getting even for something. 10:03 Ed Clark, WCV: Okay, first to answer the question about why all of you could not join us..... Camp Peary is a VERY secure federal training facility, and the public is not allowed there at all. They are very serious about security, too.... The gate guards carry automatic rifles!!! There are hydraulic traffic barriers in the driveways, and they tolerate no variation.... 10:04 Comment From jakermo I guess I didn't realize that. I hate the 'E' word. 10:06 Ed Clark, WCV: There are worse words.... like the "s" word..."suffer"..... Keeping an animal alive, just because we can, is not a kind gesture in our book, especially if the animal does not adapt to captivity...and trust me when I say that CP never adjusted to captivity. He looked like a back-street rumbler... bang, dings, scabs, broken feathers, and lots of wear and tear.... 10:06 Comment From tinksmom/MO That is a leaking eye story Ed, your staff is the greatest! 10:06 Ed Clark, WCV: Well, we are not in business to kill animals, and we never do except when we feel that we must. 10:06 Ed Clark, WCV: Anyway.... back to the story.... 10:09 Ed Clark, WCV: When the bird first arrived, it looked as if it was going to be a quick turnaround, so we were hoping to release it last summer.... unfortunately, the extent of the injuries was greater than we first noticed. What made this more significant is that the person who happened to transport the eagle to us was no less than Bob Duncan, Director of the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, who happened to be at Camp Perry for a meeting.... Then, add to that the fact that the logo and emblem of Camp Perry is the bald eagle.... Well, to put it gently, the pressure was on. I spent a lot of time trying to lower everyone's expectations at first. 10:12 Ed Clark, WCV: Honestly, after convincing the folks at DGIF and Camp Peary that there was very little chance the eagle would survive, I had convinced myself.... I more or less got my head around the fact that the bird was going to be put down.... So, when I learned that this eagle was ready for release... Well, the word resurrection rolled through my brain.... 10:12 Comment From Deb in PA I asked Randy if you'd gotten an eagle kiss and I feel so bad about mentioning it now............. 10:13 Ed Clark, WCV: I'll get to that little tidbit.... 10:15 Ed Clark, WCV: Anyway, when it was clear this bird was going to get a second chance, we put it in the flight cage, it did well, but still needed a boost. So, we put NX in the same flight cage, both to give her a clue how an eagle acts, and to give CP even more incentive to get back to the wild.... I guess you could call it "NX avoidance therapy"...... The news that the bird was not only alive, but that it had recovered came like a gift from heaven to the folks at DGIF and to the community of folks who live at Camp Peary. So, we set out to schedule the release for the earliest possible date. 10:16 Comment From jmm Wow so that eagle meant as much to the folks at Camp Peary as NX does to us...the Diva nutcases! 10:16 Ed Clark, WCV: Now who might those people be?????? 10:19 Ed Clark, WCV: Since i was out of town last week, we planned for Dr. Dave to take the bird down to Camp Perry and set it free...... Since it is a secure facility, we had to submit personal identification, so our eligibility to enter the facility could be checked. We had been assure that there was no problem, but when the background check was done, they found out Dr. Dave is a Canadian citizen....and that was the end of that... Only US citizens are allowed to enter..... We had to postpone.... I'm glad someone is defending us against the Canadian threat!!!! (just kidding!) 10:19 Comment From Joyce K Waiting on the edge of my seat for the rest of the story!!! 10:19 Comment From Martha Type man, type! 10:19 Ed Clark, WCV: I'm doing my best..... 10:23 Ed Clark, WCV: Anyway, I am in the Federal Security System, having visited the White House, the Pentagon, and many other secure facilities, on behalf of WCV, so I planned to take the bird on the very first day I was back.... The only request we had from Camp Peary was to schedule the release when all the children of the staff who live behind the fences and walls could watch.... That was our pleasure..... So, I arrived at about 3:30, met my friend Bob Duncan and our escourts from Camp Peary, signed in and proceeded to the release site, about 300 yards from the bank of the James River. By the time the release time arrive, we had between 75 and 100 people there, including a lot of little kids and their parents, and a handful of very serious looking guys with guns, who were just as excited as the kids. 10:23 Comment From Linda in Vermont Maybe MVK can transcribe. She is a much faster typist. Just saying' 10:23 Ed Clark, WCV: Phllllllbbbbbb!!!!! 10:24 Comment From Jmcbeath9 az R there other eagles there 10:25 Ed Clark, WCV: Yes, there are severl eagle nests on the facility, and lots of other eagles moving up and down the river. This bird had originally been banded as a chick in the Brandermill area, just outside Williamsburg, so this was the birds home territory. There are eagles, lots of habitat, and lots of food.... It is also a very safe place to be an eagle! 10:25 Comment From CBC+ Ohhh, Ed. Excited kids are good, but excited guys with guns... not so much! 10:25 Ed Clark, WCV: These guys with guns will help protect the eagles....and the excited kids..... 10:25 Comment From Anne in NoVa you're not a one-fingered typist like my husband are you? 10:26 Ed Clark, WCV: Sixty words a minute, thank you very much. 10:26 Comment From Lynne - The Maritimes.CA I'm getting the feeling that CP eagle injured Ed's index fingers. 10:26 Ed Clark, WCV: You know.... I could just wait until I'm more rested to try this..... like in August!!!! 10:26 Comment From ▼Dave in Missouri▼ Could you pass me the eagle rare please Ed?! 10:27 Ed Clark, WCV: Actually, that might help...... 10:27 Ed Clark, WCV: Okay... back to the story... 10:30 Ed Clark, WCV: Anyway, we had a big crowd, so we got folks organized and in place. The Chief of Station at Camp Peary introduced Director Duncan, who, in turn, introduced me..... To get started, I did a little gig aimed at hooking the kids, who were all very excited and engaged. I think the parents were even more impressed that I could relate to the first graders.....being on the same maturity level and all..... We explained the ground rules and practiced being quite....being excited withoug making noise (silent screaming...) and we were ready to go..... 10:30 Comment From Lori in NC I think we are too distracting! 10:31 Ed Clark, WCV: You have no idea!!! 10:31 Ed Clark, WCV: put it in a cage with NX.... It will come back to life and flee!!! 10:34 Ed Clark, WCV: So, there we are.... all lined up and organized. One of the regional biologists from the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries was there to help me get our bird out of the cage...which proved to be no simple matter!!! Fortunately, I had my elbow-length eagle gloves with me, so I was able to reach in and enable us "to get a grip on each other"...... 10:37 Ed Clark, WCV: When Dave described this bird as being "a bit feisty"..... it was like calling the Pope "churchy", or Jack the Ripper as having a difficult personality!!! This bird was ready to rumble!!! It flapped and grabbed and wiggled and did everything it could to get away..... Fortunately, I had a firm grip. With the help of my two DGIF colleagues, I was able to get the wings folded and the bird under control...... but the grip had to remain firm...... 10:40 Ed Clark, WCV: ... Now, how many of you have heard of "flat flies".....also known as "feather lice".... They are like house flies in size and the fact that they fly. They are like ticks, in that they feast on blood. And they are like politicians in that they get into your hair and just won't go away!! Most raptors living outdoors have them....and so did CP..... However, while doing my best to control the bird, two of these disgusting creatures decided to try out human scalp conditions.....MINE. Unfortunately, with both hands fully engaged, I was fresh out of extremities with which to fend them off..... I had to just shake my head vigorously.... which cause the people in the back to assume I was having some sort of fit..... 10:43 Ed Clark, WCV: Finally, we got ready for the count-down. As any of you who have attended previous releases know, I launch the birds into the air, which means I have to have just the right grip on the feet to propel the birds into the air. However, this propulsion grip is seldom the one with which you end up when you and the eagle are clutching each other, as the bird comes out of the cage. At some point, you have to shift your grip..... which means that for a split second, you have to turn loose with one hand in order to move the other...... That was when the trouble began. 10:43 Comment From Guest And these are not small birds! 10:43 Comment From Simchah Are you saying this bird is a contortionist> 10:44 Ed Clark, WCV: That may not be the word I would have used...... However, several came to mind.... 10:47 Ed Clark, WCV: As I removed my left hand from around the birds neck to help adjust the grip of my right hand on the bird's feet, it recognized its chance and reached up with it knarly beak and tried to rip a chunk out of my cheek.... Fortunately, I had the presence of mind to respnond with something mild....for the benefit of the kids, but the blood flew. A few people gasped. A few laughed out loud. Most, did not notice. In the face of excruciating pain and suffering, I managed to count down to the release and launch the bird into the air...... At that point, all its energy kicked in and it took off like a rocket. 10:49 Ed Clark, WCV: The bird flew about 150 yards across the activities field and landed in a big pine tree. Its flight was not perfect. His feathers looked a little ratty. His face looked like Rocky after a prize fight. But, it was clear that this bird was getting the heck out of Dodge!!! 10:50 Ed Clark, WCV: He sat in the pines for about 15 minutes, then took off and flew down the length of the tree line, found a break in the trees, hooked a right and disappeared from site.... At that point, I declared success, dabbed at the blood running down my chin, and called it a day. 10:50 Comment From Carrie from VA OUCH! 10:50 Comment From Carolyn--CT i'm getting the vision of an eagle flying away with your gloves still attached..... 10:51 Ed Clark, WCV: Honestly, I had a vision on my glove still being attached as well.....around his neck!!! "Now, ladies and gentlemen, I'll demonstrate how an endanged animal goes extinct!!!" 10:51 Comment From Kyle from Dallas I hope you at least have video of this!!!!! 11:21 Comment From dancelady When you gave an eagle NZ to Dr. M, did you wonder if she would have this eagle-kiss problem with letting one go... what if she had gotten this "kiss 11:22 Ed Clark, WCV: Actually, one of the reasons we hand them from one person to the other is so the person doing the actual release can get the right grip on the feet and head, and have both wings tucked up under our arms. Doing it alone is a real challenge, especially with a bird that wants to fight... 11:26 Ed Clark, WCV: Goodnight, Ed..... I'm outta here...... Sweet dreams all.... 11:27 Comment From 33mama Ed, I'm getting worried again. We know that if an animal has been in a cat's mouth, it is getting antibiotics. Surely you are not going to tell us that an eagle's mouth is cleaner than a house cat's!!! You know, we were just about to call the emergency number to see where you were tonight! 11:27 Comment From barbfromfl Ed just went to the laughing room! |
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| circlescribe | May 1 2012, 08:47 AM Post #18 |
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Proposed Federal Rule Change Will Lead to More Dead Eagles at Wind Energy Projects I wish I could find the Dalai Lama quote Lori sent me about how "Life is trying to kill us all the time." Not related to the above info, but to other things... Sorry, don't have a lot to say the past few days.
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| jillers | May 1 2012, 09:03 AM Post #19 |
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The room was full of pregnant women with their husbands. The instructor said, "Ladies, remember that exercise is good for you. Walking is especially beneficial. It strengthens the pelvic muscles and will make delivery that much easier. Just pace yourself, make plenty of stops and try to stay on a soft surface like grass or a path." "Gentlemen, remember -- you're in this together. It wouldn't hurt you to go walking with her. In fact, that shared experience would be good for you both." The room suddenly became very quiet as the men absorbed this information. After a few moments a man, name unknown, at the back of the room, slowly raised his hand. "Yes?" said the Instructor. "I was just wondering if it would be all right if she carries a golf bag while we walk?" Brings a tear to your eye doesn't it? |
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| Naturegal | May 1 2012, 09:47 AM Post #20 |
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Jill
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| Naturegal | May 1 2012, 11:18 AM Post #21 |
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| KLJinOz | May 1 2012, 03:15 PM Post #22 |
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G'day Peeps, I was out early yesterday, my May Day, and walked across the coathanger (Sydney Harbour) bridge to the City for a specialist Dr appt (Dermatologist), then 2 clients. It was a spectacular May Day. ![]() Carole, I love the 'Explore' theme for the NAC today. Good luck on the first day of the new old job for ES! Avery's 1st hour photos is so precious. For Kris, Dalai Lama also said "There is a saying in Tibetan, “Tragedy should be utilized as a source of strength.”No matter what sort of difficulties, how painful experience is, if we lose our hope, that’s our real disaster." I do hope you and Ed find some relief. |
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| Naturegal | May 1 2012, 03:32 PM Post #23 |
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Ozzie - Thank you . I think that the Sydney harbour with the Opera House is the most beautiful harbour in the world. Toronto can learn a thing or two to spiff up our waterfront, not build tons of ugly condos that spoil the view. Chicago also has a pretty waterfront that was well planned out.
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| KLJinOz | May 1 2012, 04:14 PM Post #24 |
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Well, Carole, not having seen Toronto, Seattle and a few other deep water harbours of the world, I cant judge. And our harbour has several areas not well planned out, like an expressway and enclosed trainline along the City waterfront for about .5km, how silly. Fortunately there is a lot of the harbour that is reserve bushland and the Zoo is also on the harbour making a lovely view when sailing. And yes, Sailing is on today, but at Pittwater Harbour! |
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| KLJinOz | May 1 2012, 04:14 PM Post #25 |
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opps double post |
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| cdn-cdn | May 1 2012, 04:23 PM Post #26 |
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![]() Hi and Happy May Day, everyone. Bravo, Carole, on your NAC presentation. Your nature theme with all the outdoorsy touches is very catchy. The pictures you chose match the theme so well. I hope Gary's first day went well! Nice photo of the scouts at their year-end celebration, Deb. (I guess there must be a summer break.) Ozzie, I know what you mean about the tax donations. The Sydney bridge and harbour are beautiful. I want to see it all in person someday. Good luck and safe journey to Princess Carolina. Before becoming part of the IWS community of eagle lovers I didn't even know about hacktowers.Kisses to little Avery. She really is a tiny one, Topa! Newborn clothes will actually fit her! She is adorable, yum, yum. How nice that John can stay home so they can bond as a family. Kris Penny, wow, I don't think I would want an eagle kiss. Maybe guys don't care but I wouldn't want a piece taken out of my chin or cheek. Ed's account was very entertaining, though. Have been working on my NAC presentation for a couple of days now, more to do tomorrow. Jann has been a great help. Time for a wine cooler and DWTS to relax. It really isn't work, though, I just can't think of the word I need right now. |
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| Naturegal | May 1 2012, 05:19 PM Post #27 |
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| Naturegal | May 1 2012, 05:30 PM Post #28 |
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Cheryl - Thanks , it's always fun to work on the promos. I really like your "hello" graphic, so cheerful.I'm turning in early tonight, not feeling 100%, just tired out and tummy is a bit upset. Tomorrow will be a better day.
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| cdn-cdn | May 1 2012, 06:47 PM Post #29 |
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Hope you feel better tomorrow, Carole. I love the triplet presentation above.
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| Artsy Mom | May 1 2012, 08:15 PM Post #30 |
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Carole another beautiful NAC presentation...the map of Santa Cruz is beautiful and the last one of the WE triplets is especially fun because it looks as though they are actually inviting people over to this forum to 'Explore' Funny you should mention TO condo's because there was a news story yesterday about people in Vancouver buying micro infill houses that are no bigger than 200 sq. feet, but they are high to give the illusion of more space, which ends up blocking the views of the regular houses behind them. The reason they are building so many of these in what are the backyards of many homes is because of the escalating costs of condos, especially in desirable areas. In Toronto, it was mentioned, condo's are one million +, so no wonder they are building them in primo spots ![]() Hope you feel better in the morning
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on your first day back



on the WCV blog last


Sorry, don't have a lot to say the past few days.


Dalai Lama also said "There is a saying in Tibetan, “Tragedy should be utilized as a source of strength.”
Toronto can learn a thing or two to spiff up our waterfront, not build tons of ugly condos that spoil the view. Chicago also has a pretty waterfront that was well planned out.

not feeling 100%, just tired out and tummy is a bit upset. Tomorrow will be a better day.

6:16 AM Jul 11