80 STORIES OF BIRD LIFE 



past. Another moment and the eagle roared by sweeping 

 along on the trail of the osprey. 



For half a mile the chase continued. The eagle had 

 steadily gained until now he occupied a point of vantage 

 above the osprey. The supreme moment had arrived. I 

 strained my eyes to gaze at the two specks far away. Then 

 as I watched, the upper one swooped until it almost reached 

 the one below. The osprey dodged and to avoid further 

 attacks let fall its prey. Down, down the eagle dropped 

 through the sky to catch the fish before it struck the earth. 

 Ere the tree tops were reached the great wings checked the 

 downward flight, and with the booty in its talons it passed 

 majestically from sight over the forest, a true example of 

 the all-conquering king of birds. 



THOUGHT QUESTIONS 



What bird is often called the "king of birds" ? Why is it called this ? 

 What is the emblem of the United States? Young eagles cannot fly for 

 many weeks after they are hatched. Hawks are closely related to eagles. 

 Can a young hawk fly soon after being hatched? Would you like for the 

 osprey to have escaped with the fish? Are there any eagles in your neigh- 

 borhood ? 



