While hiking through the avatar like landscape of the Tongass National Forest, up a small switch back from the creek, we spotted this bald eagle just off the trail at eye level. I can’t recall ever being so close to one to really appreciate their size, and it’s to no surprise this happened in Alaska of all places. After-all this region boasts the highest density of bald eagles in the world. To think it was once endangered of being wiped from existence is not just harrowing for Mother Nature but is without a doubt a massive blow to who we are. The bald eagle is a symbol associated with the most powerful country in the world, and has an important place in the traditions and cultures of many indigenous communities across North America. In our overly ‘civilized’ society, nature once inspired who we are today and is still in the base code of who we are. What would humanity be without it? Photo taken on assignment with @mapleleafadvent @cangeotravel @cangeo in SE Alaska. @nikoncanada Z 9 with Nikkor 800mm f6.3 #baldeagle #sharecangeo #eagle #nikoncreators #zcreators #nikonnofilter #wildlife #raptors #nature #freedom #birdsofinstagram #eagles #birdsofprey #baldeaglesofinstagram #baldeagles #wildlifephotography #artofvisuals #birdofprey #birdphotography #nikonphotography #raptorsofinstagram #yourshotphotographer #america #eaglenation