Eagles - which image is stronger?

I've been surprised on Facebook with how much one of these has gotten feedback and likes vs. the other. I'll keep the most favored a secret for now, but would like your preference and why. BTW, shot with 7D MkII at ISO 1600 with Canon 500 f/4 at 1/1600 sec and f/5.6 (I think) at Conowingo Dam, MD.

Awesome shots Buddy! I found Conowingo in November. I prefer No. 1 for the action. No. 2 has a great blurred background for the purists, but lacks excitement. Love that 4 year old plumage.

Regarding Likes on facebook or flickr, I find it impossible to predict which shots will get higher hits.

I think #1 is stronger. Talons out, focused eyes, I just the feeling of the impending grab from that image. Like the reflection as well. Great panning on both shots.

#1 is awesome!

I prefer #1 because the nothing is clipped and I think #1 tells more of a story and offers more action.

Side note...it's good to see S/3 doing so well at Conowingo...I think this her third year being seen there.

Both are great but I agree #1 for the simple fact that nothing is clipped off.

Another vote for #1. For all the same reasons, but especially as Duane said, nothing cropped/clipped.

Both are great but #1 is my pick as for the same reasons before me.

#1 all the way!

I agree with everyone else. That is one of the most dramatic shots of an eagle I have seen.

This may sound like a cop-out, but the truth is that both are equal for there own uses. What I mean is each has its own context that it fits into. The classic nature of the first, and perhaps a 'statement context for the second. The first might hang in a sportsmans' home, while the second might hang in a corporate waiting room.

I prefer the 1st one.

No contest for me, #1, serious intent therein. Would you mind sharing your focus setup? My new 7Dii is a complex beast and I don't have the best choices dialed in for BIF. Your eagle's eye is razor sharp in both images.

Great shots.

I like #1. It looks a little more vicious to me