My visit to Panama...a significant entry into the bird world (1 Viewer)

[mrmike]

I am new to the bird world and here to stay.This is my reason...

As I stood looking up to this magnificent creature, inspired by its majestic presence, I felt privileged, chosen to witness this beautiful creation of God. A surreal experience. For a moment, time stood still. His sinister eyes looking down upon us, watching with just as much curiosity as us watching him. The rare and elusive Harpy Eagle. It was Thursday February 2nd, 2006. Approximately 10am. We took the arial tram at the Gamboa Rainforest resort in Panama. A beautiful resort set in a serene location on the Chagres River a short distance from the Panama Canal. The sun was shining. It was a beautiful morning. Unknowingly at the time that it would be a day forever to be remembered. As we rode to the top of the canopy, our guide talked about the rainforest flora and fauna while I scanned the trees looking for photo opportunities. It was a fairly quiet ride to the top where we exited the tram to climb the lookout tower overlooking the Panama Canal and Chagres River. I took some scenic photos while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. After a brief rest at the top, we proceeded back down to catch the arial tram back to the base. When we reached the bottom one of the guides was pointing up towards the top of a tree. There he was, sitting there like a king on his throne looking down upon his followers. I watched him through binoculars fascinated by his presence. I was at a loss for words. I managed to take a few photos before we were ushered back onto the tram for the ride back to reality. A truly awe-inspiring moment. One that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

 

[tomjenner]

Hi Mr Mike
What a fantastic way to start your interest in birding. I can tell you that you have had great luck to see such a bird. I have lived in Central america for nearly 7 years now and I have made many trips to search for them without success. I once had the chance to visit a captive breeding area for them in Brazil and I had the chance to see them up close. They really are one of the best species on the planet. The best of luck with your next trip down this way.

Tom

 

[Cedric K]

Hey Mike,

Panama is indeed a paradise for birdwatchers. The only Harpy Eagles I've seen there was a couple in Summit Zoo. They're part of the Peregrine Fund's breeding program. It's good news that the Harpy can be seen again around Gamboa, and I'm sure the Peregrine fund would like to hear about it. I'd certainly like to see the pictures you took...

Cedric

 

[stephennj]

mrmike

Mrmike what a thrill that must have been
The Harpy Eagle is at the top of my list of birds to see someday,but it would take some traveling and quite a bit of luck to see it.Please share your photos here if you can get them downloaded.
Welcome to birding !
-stephen

 

[Iceberg slim]

I have also seen that magnificent "Harpy" in summit zoo,really envious of your find,i did find my own" "Ornate hawk-eagle,not the same granted but a real good raptor.

 

[stephennj]

I was desperately looking for both of those species on my last trip to Oaxaca ,I was in an area where either species could have been seen as it was the correct habitat but on the edge of their ranges.My best Mexican raptor was the Aplomado Falcon which I can settle for.