The view was "Golden"

As we continue our northward migration to Canada, our travels took us through Zion National Park.  Our excitement for the day occurred a few miles before we entered the Park.  About 9:00 a.m. we we cruising along not seeing much other than the beautiful red rock hills.  Then, off to our left on 2 power poles we notice 2 large dark brown birds.  Not Red-tailed Hawks.  I slowed down and Dana says, "Those are Golden Eagles!"  I keep driving for about 200 meters and pull off the road.  I hop out and dig out my camera from the back of the 4Runner.  Dana hops in as driver and we turn around and drive back to get a better look at the eagles.  We pull well off the road and turn off the truck.  I start shooting photos.  The eagles stayed with us for about 10 minutes.  Awesome!

Okay, let me explain to birders and non-birders what we experienced.  First of all, Golden Eagles don't just sit on power poles beside the road.  NOT EVER!!!  They are rare.  When they are observed it is when they are soaring high in the sky.  They often occur singly.   They nest on high rocky ledges and feed on small mammals such as rabbits and occasionally small pets.  (Penny - Just kidding about the pets ;-)  Of all the bird reports I have seen I have never seen Golden Eagles reported perched on power poles beside a highway.  This is how special this event was.  At least it was special for Dana and me and why I wanted to share it in our blog.

btw:  Tonight we are in Pendleton, Oregon.  We ate fantastic burgers at a brew pub this evening.  Downtown Pendleton is a happening place this Saturday evening.  A wedding reception at the world famous Hamley's Steakhouse (I got to hold the front door open for the Bride and Groom) and next door at the Slickfork Saloon above the world famous Hamley's Cowboy clothes, Saddles and Tack store, Michael Martin Murphey is performing live in concert with his band.

Here is a photo of one of the Golden Eagles that we saw yesterday morning in Utah.  (PS:  I know I have said some rather uncomplimentary things about Utah in the past.  I think I am changing my mind about the state.  It does have a lot to offer.....)

I generally to not post "power pole" shots of birds.  I am making an exception for this exceptional bird.By the
way, large hawks are about 20 inches "tall".  Golden Eagles are 30" tall, or in length.  That is how big they are!