Dear Katie,

It was a cold month for nature observations, but our group did not disappoint. There was plenty of bird activity in Harpswell, and some impressive snowy tracks! We particularly loved Howie Marshall's eagle photos, but don't look too closely if you're squeamish about blood. Want to see the rest? Click here to join the Facebook Group.

What are you seeing out there? We'd love to hear from you! Click here for more information about Harpswell Nature Watchers.

I spotted this immature Bald Eagle perched on a low branch in the corner of our yard early Thursday afternoon, with some bloody meal in its talons. When I went outside to get a clear view of it for my camera it took off, but flew around for a while and I got some nice pictures of it.

You can see a tuft of fur or feathers (that's how unidentifiable its prey was by the time I saw it) in the tip of its beak in the closeup of its face, and perhaps a spot of blood on the side of its beak.

From the high proportion of white in its head and tail feathers I would guess it is at least 3 or 4 years old.

(Submitted by Howie Marshall. January 2, 2025)

A Pileated Woodpecker soaking up the sun on a birch branch.

(Submitted by Kim Van Zorge. January 12, 2025)

American Robins awaiting the storm. Hundreds of them swarmed a few minutes ago.

(Submitted by Andre Cocquyt. January 18, 2025)

Ice in Middle Bay. The warm-up pile up.

(Submitted by Tom Warhol. January 20, 2025)

There have been some interesting tracks in the snow, perhaps even an otter slide at Otter Brook Preserve. Turkey tracks and animals hunting. And, a wingprint where a bird of prey came down...

(Submitted by Gina Snyder. January 27, 2025)