204 
not inconsiderable. When the west coast salmon die after spawning, the 
Bald Eagles gorge themselves on the stranded bodies, and are too well fed 
and lazy to attack living game. When this time of abundance is over, 
however, the Eagles turn to more energetic methods of living, and water- 
fowl then suffer severely. Once on the wing such birds are comparatively 
immune from attack, for the Bald Eagle rarely, if ever, attacks from the 
wing, but, if surprised on the water and cut off from the air, the fate of 
birds even as large and hardy as Geese and Loons is practically sealed. 
The fowl dive at the swoop of the enemy, but in the clear coastal waters 
they cannot hide, and when they come to the surface again for air, there is 
the pursuing Eagle awaiting them. A gasp is all that is allowed them 
before another dodge and dive. This goes on for but a few minutes 
when, exhausted and helpless, the victim is carried off, or towed in triumph 
to the shore. Where Eagles are only ordinarily numerous, these attacks 
may be looked upon with equanimity as being of no serious harm to the 
species affected, but where, as on certain parts of the seacoast, dozens 
of Eagles may be seen perched on commanding stubs overlooking the bird 
grounds, their attacks may be serious. At least, their constant harrying 
keeps the species in question so stirred up and nervous, that they are unable 
to feed in peace, and linger no longer in the vicinity than is absolutely 
necessary. That Eagles, even under these conditions, make serious inroads 
on the multitudes of wild fowl or fish of the coast, is questionable, but 
that they are always deserving of full protection can also be disputed. 
Any method designed to keep their numbers more in harmony with human 
demands should be applied and limited to the localities where they are an 
adverse economic influence, and where it does not destroy the picturesque 
features of the interior landscape, that the nature lover cannot well spare. 
The relations between the Bald Eagle and the Osprey, and the methods 
by which the Eagle deprives that industrious and successful fisherman of 
its catch, are interesting if not admirable, but will be described elsewhere. 
Subfamily — Falconinae. True Falcons 
The Falcons were known to the old falconers as the Noble or Long- 
winged Hawks and, on account of their great spirit, strength, and address, 
were the chosen birds for use in hunting. Their long wings give them 
