• Sea Gulls & Eagles: Some people consider sea gulls to be dirty scavengers, but those of us who live with them find them to be our neighbors and friends. It can be so relaxing to watch a sea gull soar on the currents with little need to flap his wings. We enjoy them as they land and take off from the roof of Cards Aquaculture. There seems to be an order in their lives as the older gulls perch on the peak of the roof while the younger ones are further down. They all face the same direction, squawking as though they are discussing world affairs. Off they go to catch fish or krill; back they come to rest and visit. Those who try to fly in a gale are often seen flying backward, a sure sign that a storm has arrived. When it is cold or a storm is approaching, they will float on the water to keep warm and safe or retreat to a spot where they can tuck their head under a wing and be out of the wind. There are a variety of species of gulls in the area.
  
  Gulls are more plentiful but nothing is more beautiful than a soaring bald eagle. Even the young ones are obviously bigger than the gulls as they rule the air. They have nests at Shackford Head but they may be seen as they soar over other areas of Eastport. We watched one eat a fish as he perched in a tree across from our home the other day. The crows were squawking, not happy to have this visitor.
  
  The gulls, the crows, the pigeons, and several other varieties are tame enough that they will come quite close to be fed. You can have an enjoyable time if you buy some bread at R&M IGA and find a spot to feed it to them. Our grandchildren call them "Nana's birds" because they seem to appear on command, whenever bread is thrown, ready to put on a show as they vie for the best morsels.

Many locations in Eastport have free copies of a map detailing the Eastport/Lubec Quoddy Loop vicinity. Carry one with you. This map details roads and ferry routes connecting the entire area. You'll enjoy each of these day trips more fully if you have a camera and binoculars always at hand. At every turn you have the opportunity for a moose to appear, an eagle to soar overhead, or some other breathtaking sight to awaken your senses. Many days you'll want a sweater or sweatshirt within easy reach. Bring along water and food so you'll have the freedom to explore in every direction.

Eastport, Maine: Easternmost City in the U.S.A.