When a freeloader shows up on their turf, a pair of eagles take to the sky for a whirling battle of wills.

One of this seabird's biggest threats...is other eagles.

It has to constantly defend its feeding ground from freeloaders.

A lone eagle has come to check out the fishing.

But this area belongs to this breeding pair, and they're not inclined to share.

Their calls act as a warning shot...which the invader ignores.

He's taking his dinner from their turf, and they're not putting up with it.

It's time to launch the first defensive volley.

The female takes point, dive bombing the intruder, starting a mid-air tug of war.

But she loses...both the fight...and the fish.

So she tag teams with her male partner.

The intruder and the defending male fly high, looking for the advantage.

Then, they lock talons, and the battle is on.

This whirling is a display of dominance, force and bravado.

The eagles climb higher, ready for another round.

It's an aerial game of chicken...and neither eagle blinks.

The intruder emerges unhurt...but decides to move on.

Their territory once again secure, the breeding pair takes a victory lap.