Play or aerial combat training?

[SARtech]

Although it has been a dismal year at Starved Rock (the areas famed spot for eagle watching), I have had the pleasure of seeing the most Bald Eagles in recent years yet up the river near Channahon, IL. I will post my good shots tonight or tomorrow, but I thought you would all enjoy seeing this. I've never seen this before and it makes me wonder exactly what they are doing. I watched this happen 3 different times on Sunday. Twice with 2 juveniles and once with a young adult and a juvi. Are they playing? Are they practicing their aerial combat? Anyone know?
(They were far away and I only have a 300mm so the quality sucks, but still interesting.)

[SARtech]

Here's more........

[Eric D]

I see you too found some fighting Raptors. always a good show.
Nice job capturing the action!

[SARtech]

so they are really fighting? wow I saw this happen 3 times Sunday! The one time between a juvi and a young adult was too far away for any really recognizable shots. I got one shot off before they went too far out of range.

[paulnj]

They are 1st winter and 2nd winter eagles fighting over hunting territory.