[CT Birds] predation -

[Carrier Graphics]

Hi Pam -

I understand your having bad thoughts about the merganser in the eagles 
talons, esp hearing its cries -

But if it helps... Chances are the duck was originally injured and thats 
why it was easily caught by the Eagle in the first place. Most predators 
such as eagles are not exactly programmed to catch healthy ducks, though 
it might sometimes be the case. I would guess this duck was injured in 
some capacity.
So if it were not caught by the eagle, it just might have lived a bit 
longer, but eventually might have died of starvation. Still not a 
comforting thought for the duck, but maybe the quick end by the Eagle 
might have been  a less painful demise for the duck then a long 
starvation. Maybe?

Paul Carrier

PS) Wow - so many good answers on the Cow as a predator - to many to 
post, but all different and so interesting!  Thanks for the replies......