However, the Chobe River has plenty of other attractions. On a tray in the boat, we see four dead fish. “We always find fish eagles waiting for fish to be thrown into the water,” says Rainford, our Botswana boat captain. Will we succeed in photographing one of these birds as it swoops down to pick up a meal? Our excitement builds up as another tourist boat, named The Fish Eagle, passes by.

“The distinctive ringing call of the African fish eagle is a constant feature of the Chobe River,” explains Dr. Anthony Hall-Martin in the book Elephants of Africa. Four of these magnificent birds are watching us from trees lining the river. We quickly adjust our cameras as Sandy throws a fish. On cue, the first bird leaves its perch and glides toward us. Next, we hear a splash as the fish is clasped firmly in the bird’s talons. Then, with a flap of its majestic wings, it rises from the water, letting out a victorious cry​—WHOW-kayow-kwow. We are struck with awe at the coordination of eyes, talons, voice, and wings directed from the eagle’s small brain. On board there is a hushed silence, except for the clicking of cameras, as this impressive performance is repeated three more times.