When photographing wildlife, depending on the species, there are certain types of behavior we try hard to capture. They are either more dramatic, or engaging. With most large birds it’s either the take off or landing movements.
My preference is a Great Blue Heron landing or Bald Eagle lifting into the air.

The photograph above captures the Eagle falling forward to catch a breeze. Most large birds will take off into the wind if possible. A tilt of their wings allows them to be pushed upwards.
Click, or double tap, any image below to view the gallery.
Even when you know they are about to take off many in a series of images are flawed.

Most errors happen when hand holding a big a lens. You can’t hold them up for long periods. And… the exact moment you lower the gear for a quick rest the animal laughs and leaves.
They know.