Osprey Circles High
As I paddle downstream, a raptor tracks my progress from a tall sycamore. Taking flight as I approach, its wings lifting with broad strokes, it catches a thermal that takes it higher and higher, gliding as it watches. Taking sight on movement in the water, it starts an aerial dive, striking its prey just below the surface. The great bird flies away in a ballet of wings and fins as I continue to paddle, thankful for the beauty of nature.
osprey circles high
hitting water in steep dive
fish struggles in vain
Frank Tassone’s Hawk Challenge
Image: Osprey with catch, over the Osage River, Missouri
rivrvlogr 
A magnificent haibun Ken!
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Thank you!
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A wonderful sight—yes, I could see it!
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😀
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Reblogged this on Frank J. Tassone and commented:
#Haiku Happenings #13: Ken’s latest #haibun for my current #Haikai Challenge!
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Whoa… he got ’em….those eagle eyes:) A nice haibun Ken.
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Thank you. It was pretty impressive.
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That would have been an astonishing sight to witness.
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I was pleased when it landed near enough with the fish (still, about 200 feet away) to take the photo. One other time, an eagle dropped out of a tree just 80 feet from me to grab a fish in a foot of water. It hopped the 5 feet to shore then proceed to snack as I floated past.
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Wow. Sounds fantastic.
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You sound so peaceful as you paddle along the river. In a bubble of peace you can watch and take part of the beautiful Osprey in flight and hunting.
Your poem is strong and beautiful.
miriam
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Thank you. That’s the nice thing about the smaller streams, but they’re frozen in January and February, so my monthly paddle is in a larger river, where I get to see eagles (but seldom as close as this osprey).
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A magical moment wonderfully captured in your poem, Ken. I could imagine being there. And great photo!
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Thank you, Merril.
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You’re welcome!
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