George and Gracie are back!
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Please be advised that nature can be brutal – viewer discretion is advised.
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Special Thanks to Tommy: George & Gracie’s Landlord
IMPORTANT: Messages from osprey experts
I haven’t seen the little guy yet this morning, but I would be very surprised if he survived the night. That sure was tough to watch yesterday, but that whole process is as much a part of the essence of being an Osprey as is eating a fish. It’s part of the life of Ospreys that was rarely seen before we started putting cameras in nests. As hard as it is, we should not label the behavior as mean or cruel. Being mean or cruel implies that there is intent to do harm just for harm’s sake. Those young were responding to a set of stimuli (very little food being delivered to the nest and the presence of a very small young) in a way that evolution has hard-wired into them. It helps ensure their survival. Nature is not cruel. It is harsh, unforgiving, and often random (had the little guy been born 1st, he would have been just as aggressive as was his sibling), but not cruel or mean.
Paul Henry ospreyzone July 1, 2015 at 8:17 am
Thanks Rob for bringing your knowledge and experience to help us all gain perspective here. We are all saddened by the events that unfolded before our eyes and it’s only natural for all of us to feel and express our emotions appropriately. There have been many issues pertaining to intervention which have been discussed amongst us all. There is no doubt in my mind that the right decision was made, to let nature take it’s course. By the way, that doesn’t equate to heartless, on the contrary, nobody feels worse about this then the apparent decision makers. I say apparent, because when all was said and done, and all the issues were properly weighed, there really weren’t any other options. It was clearly pointed out, by experts, that intervening at this stage could have spooked the whole nest to the point of losing all the young. If the little one was saved, and nursed back to health, what kind of a life would it have had, perhaps caged up in a zoo. I remember when I was younger I saw a golden eagle in captivity, caged behind a wire mesh. I could practically see it’s tears. As far as placing the little one in another nest, such a low probability of success would never have justified the possibility of spooking the nest. There’s a piece of me, however heavy hearted, that believes that perhaps it is better to be born free and die free. We mourn for the little one as we marvel at the wonders of nature.
Hello Paul,
Thanks for your query, and you have my admiration for persevering. We know very well how tough your job is, including dealing with an anxious public.
Our policy with our Bird Cams project is essentially “just say no” to pleas for interference. The behavior you are witnessing – while seemingly cruel and heartless to us – is natural for many kinds of birds, especially those that feed on variable, unpredictable food supplies. The little nestling does have a chance to survive, but if it does not then that result was “meant to be” by the nature of Osprey breeding strategy. The wonderful things about these nest cameras also sometimes yield the difficult things for us to watch. As you might know, we actually post a “siblicide alert” on some of our cams where we suspect the possibility exists.
I’m copying your note to Charles Eldermire, project leader for our Bird Cams. He may have some additional comments, and he would be the one to ask if we might be able to use your stored files for biological analysis.
Best wishes, and good luck,
John W. Fitzpatrick
Director, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
It’s also important to acknowledge that intervening can also cause problems of its own—depending on the ages of the birds in the nest, disturbing them can trigger an early fledge. We have restricted the scenarios in which we would even consider intervening to injuries or dangers that are explicitly human-derived. For example, 3 or 4 years ago we were alerted by viewers that one of the osprey chicks at the Hellgate Osprey nest was entangled in monofilament line. We consulted with our partners there (wildlife biologists, raptor researchers, raptor rehabbers) to determine if the monofilament was an issue, and if intervening was both likely to solve the issue AND not have bad effects on the other nestlings. In the end, a quick trip to the nest was scheduled via a bucket truck, the monofilament was removed, and the nestlings all eventually fledged. In that case, all of the permits were already in hand to be studying the ospreys, and we had already discussed how to approach issues in the nest.
Good luck to the young one—hope it all turns out well.
charles.
*******************
Charles Eldermire
Bird Cams Project Leader
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
I’ve been to your site—great cam! And I noticed the runt in the nest. This is just normal Osprey reproduction. It happens all the time and you should not intervene. It’s tough to watch, but it’s how nature works. Ospreys almost always lay 3 eggs and on average fledge between 1 and 1.5 young each year. They stagger the hatch so there is a spread of ages in the young. That way, if food is short, the first-hatched (and therefore largest) will get enough food to survive while the smaller nest mates do not. If all three young were the same size and there was only enough food for 1 young, none of the young would get enough food and they would all die. If there’s lots of food, the smallest will eventually get fed and can survive. These nest cams can show some gut-wrenching scenes. The most infamous perhaps was one of the very first Osprey cams (on Long Island somewhere), where the smallest young died. One of the adults carried it out of the nest and after several minutes flew back into the nest and fed it to the other young. Waste-not-want-not at its goriest. At Hog Island up in Maine just last week a Bald Eagle came in and took the young out of the nest. Last year at another nest, cameras documented a Great-horned Owl taking young Ospreys out of a nest in NJ or MD. All of these things have been going on for millions of years and Ospreys are doing fine.
Rob Bierregaard
Academy of Natural Sciences
Drexel University
http://www.ospreytrax.com
The Summer of 2015 by Gina M.
Farewell
Greetings
Firstly, I want to thank everyone who has been contributing stills and video, please keep them coming, much appreciated. We are no longer able to record every amazing moment of George and Gracie’s saga, it was just un-sustainable for us. So please continue to capture and share highlights. I especially love all the creative and informative clips that so many have been kind enough to create and post, thanks.
Apparently there was a show on public access TV last night (Tuesday), Channel 20 or 22 Long Island Cablevision channels, all about Ospreys and Ospreyzone. I’d love to know who made it and where I can see it, if anyone knows, or can find out please let me know.
We are looking for help or another way to handle and moderate our comments section, If anyone has thoughts or ideas pertaining to other ways, please share. I’m thinking that we should have a better way to immediately see posts.
Many thanks to all.
Paul Henry
Thanks, I was able to find the show and filmmaker, Rory Mcnish who I used to work with. I forgot that he had interviewed me and was working on this. He made a nice Osprey piece that I’m hopping to link to on our web site, just waiting for his permission.
Good Paul, will do nothing more on my end. Thanks for letting me know.
I have watched that site as well and have learned so much from the moderators.
My recommendation as ive said last year is spot.im to replace this whole comment system, spot,im is great and has wonderful features.
I don’t understand the comment about not being able to record every moment. I this still a live feed and does the 4 hour recap still work? What am I missing?
Thanks
Yes, the 4-hour replay still works. We used to record and save every day of the season, but are unable to do so this year due to the time and resources it took. This doesn’t have an effect on the live stream, but it means we rely on the community to save highlights.
Please, please, please, don’t visit the nest. It is on a private road in a private community. There is no parking there only private driveways and the nest is on private property. We don’t want to become an issue with the neighbors. Thanks
Looking forward to meeting you…reservation under Wilson
CORRECTION on date Phil-George arrived on March 24 not the 17 sorry. Official dates are George arrived March 24 and Gracie April 2.
3-13-17 Reply- ChrisH thanks for adding info, whatever we can do to help the Ospreys Right? Not to much longer before our Family comes home, we just need Tommy to come home safe and turn the Live Cam back on. Missing our Family and Followers.
6-26-17 Monday Morning
“Who’s 3 weeks old today?” “Me, I am!!” 😀
Chick #1 is 3 weeks old today.
Mr Intruder wanted to come to the party, but, George told him it was for family only! 😀
Mr Intruder thought he would ask Gracie if he could come to chick #1’s birthday party, but, she, too, said “NO”! 😀
I thought it would be a good time to update the differences between the chicks as they grow and change. In this picture chick #1 is on the left. Just like George her center head stripe is pretty much even in width from front to back. And, chick #2’s, just like Gracie, flares at the end. And her “eyebrows,” for lack of a better word, are thicker and darker.
In this picture chick #2 is on the left. She has more dark head feathers overall making her look more “brunette” whereas chick #1 looks more “blond.”
In this picture chick #1 is on the left. Her back stripe is (still) straighter and narrower than chick #2’s, which flares at the bottom.
In this picture chick #2 is on the left. So … chick #2 has a flare about her and chick #1 is on the straight and narrow!! 😀 😀
Flair!!
Chick #2 pooped. It went straight up and … splat on chick #1
See the wind picked up over by the nest…..we had a quick 5 min. shower run thru here, with spectacular salmony clouds clearing out as he sun is setting!
Can’t tell if OZ got wet. Wish those clouds had been a background……
Overcast till about midnight with clear skies and temps low 60s after…..Sun and mid to high 70s tomorrow…..
Everyone-HAGN!
My son was fishing by the Shinnecock Canal-north/east of me and maybe 10 miles away. He didn’t get rain but he got the rainbow-a double! Had to share and wish everyone a good night…………….
(photos by S. Wilcox)
Serious wingersize till he almost nose-dived…..
minutes later, George arrived with a BIG fish! The fish this afternoon seem to be on the bigger size….
The chicks are responding more eagerly….and we get to watch as they stay near center..
It was another beautiful day–occasional passing clouds with a lot of sun,,
George showed up with a fish of his own. The chicks ate, napped and ate again!
@18:47—They ate so much, they’re round like penguins!
6-25-17 I just love this stage with the babies every time Gracie calls out to George and begs for more fish they chime in. They copy her begging call. Gracie has 2 different patterns of begging she has always done probably more but her standard not in a hurry beg call is what makes our Gracie, Gracie. Love the way she just looks up occasionally to see if George is still there whether it be he is in the nest or on the perch. She dozes and close her eyes and sometimes just opens 1 eye and beg calls. She will do this sometimes for 30 minutes or so then George usually cant ignore her anymore and off he goes. Baby1 and Baby2 are really starting to copy and mimic Gracie and Georges movements and calls.
As you all know unless blood test is done no way of telling difference of male or female not until they are full grown adults can you tell by size and beaks along with feathers and so on.
I think our Baby1 being the smaller of the 2 walks and stands more always on guard way more than Baby2, I believe Baby1 is our Male and Baby2 is our Female. Baby2 being the larger of the two and laying in nest more than walking around defiantly,eats more acts like Sandy did a lot in 2015.
Thats just my predictions and guess, can not wait till the Baby Naming Contest which Paul usually does,not until right as they are fledgling. There is no guarantee Paul will do this year but hopeful he will keep the tradition going.
What do you OZ Followers think?????
Below is a pic were babies are chiming in after Gracie opens her eyes after begging George for more fish, he is on perch but finally fly’s off to the water 6-25-17 .
.
Gracie was trying this out for a masked ball 😀
13:07–Yet another fish by George delivery–tug o’ fish for this one…guess who won and took it off-sides to the kids.
George had brought in a small one earlier that could barely be seen in his claw. Gracie took it over to the chicks. After that , she stepped out for a quick dip.
While he was in charge, George introduced one chick to the irrigation tube.
Gracie watching boats this morning
11:53amEDT—Brunch coming in- probably menhaden (bunker)
Gracie accepts it…
12:34pm—Follow-up….George brought a “minnow” for dessert….could barely see it in his claw…
Everyone seems to be well fed…at one point, there was even 2 fish in the nest with 2 adults to feed them and the chicks weren’t overly enthusiastic. Think George is bringing flounder this a.m.
Gracie seems to be doing a lot of nestorating….she moved a lot of things yesterday afternoon, from sticks, to reeds, to seaweed. This morning was a small tree that she tried adding to the wall under the camera but it thankfully ended in the Invisible Zone. They must be enlarging the patio, cause the munchkins are spending more time out there out of sight.
This looks like a Mardi Gras mask as Gracie finds a new home for this dried seaweed
Gracie brought a big stick to the nest. This is her flying in with it with what looks like a crow in hot pursuit!!
Our precious Families
Gracie “what sort of fish is that, George?”
Both watching something below the nest.
Haha feeding between Gracie’s legs ♥
Gracie sitting in the evening sun, telling George her thoughts…….
I guess this was his answer…..
Hello Group
I hope everyone know what it means when an Osprey Mantles. If not I’ll try to explain what it means if not someone else will probably explain it better than I will.
When an intruder or anything else threatens the Chicks or the nest George and/or Gracie will posture with their Wings in an outward fashion, this is probably done to try to make them seem bigger and more Ominous to the threat. And they will also begin to increase their vocal range and intensity (very loud). And if this doesn’t work and hopefully there are Two Parents on will fly up or down to the Threat and literally “Dive Bomb” the threat, these two forms of repelling the threat usually works. But George and Gracie would be relentless in getting rid of the threat.
After all this being said, my question to everyone is has anyone ever witnessed this being done to any intruder or threat and if so were all of these actions done to all threats or just done to other Ospreys in general.
Thank-You for taking your time is responding
Mike
I’ve been noticing that Gracie is having difficulty with tearing the fish apart. Looks like much harder work than earlier.
Also happy that I’m not seeing aggressive pecking between the little ones.
Family feeding time…. Saturday, 6/24 at approx 7pm
First time ever posting a pic!! 😉
18:35—-evening fish delivery
one chick wobbled over and took a little nap; the other tucked right in
Watching Gracie redecorate is a riot. She is so intent on making her home safe for her chicks, she is just moving stuff all over the nest.
KEVIN—-Hope you were checking in Saturday afternoon…..this one’s for you! Hi Dee….
…………Another section of the OZ watchers local contingent
…an Betsy, too.
I cant wait to see how many posts there are saying a chicks is missing. Its there though. Tucked in the 4pm position.
I think the rain watered the chicks and made them grow!! 😀
A suave George Clooney pose…………
A little more George of the Jungle…………….
OR CHER……….
O>K> Heartattack time! Logged in to see one chicklet…..Scrolled back to 13:25 to see chick butts off to right..one moved back to Mom- with a p.s. on the way. The other scooted in to the Invisible Zone. What is the appeal of that corner?????????
George came in minutes later…..
Both chicks front and center ….
It’s turned in to a beautiful day. The remnants of Cindy ran thru this a.m. We had downpours for about 3 hours and it cleared out quickly, leaving glorious sunshine, a gentle breeze and temps in the 80s.
BETSY—-testing—chick #1 on left—–#2 on right appears to have a darker head..?????????????
Gracie flapping her wings dry — or less wet!!
George brought a fish at 8:08 am. After Gracie was done feeding the chicks she left the remainder of the fish on the left side of the nest and sat on the chicks to shield them from the rain. George brought another fish at 9:51 am. Gracie took that fish from him and then he picked up the leftover fish from earlier. Chick #1 came over to him and he fed chick #1 while chick #2 went over to Gracie and she fed that chick. Sweet!!
Hi All,
I’ve been checking in regularly and The George and Gracie show is fantastic as usual. They really are the best parents. The nest here in Columbus,OH is doing well but it’s only because of Mom. They oldest chick is barely 4 weeks old and she has already had to go hunting to feed the chicks. The Dad is in no way our Gorgeous George. I never saw him sit on the eggs. I have never seen him feed the chicks and he really is lacking in the food delivery as well. Sometimes he sits on the nest while Mom is feeding the chicks, I guess as look out but I really believe he’s hoping there might be something left. With 3 chicks and a stressed hungry Mom, that never happens. I know I’m complaining about him a lot but when you get your start watching an Osprey nest George and Gracie really set the bar high!
George delivering breakfast ♥
Gracie feeding the chicks.
Beautiful morning captured!
Hi Sera…George seems to bring !st. fish around 5AM daily…one thing for sure no storage of fish this year.
Sera good picture 🙂
George feeds chick #2 while Gracie supervises 😀
Oops! George feeds chick #1 while Gracie supervises.
The chicks are getting so big! I think Gracie and George are such wonderful parents. This year George seemed to start feeding the chicks himself earlier than I remember him doing last year! And, I love watching when Gracie feeds the chicks – if you listen, with each piece of fish she gives she says “Here” or “Eat.” Even when they are stuffed, she tries to get them to eat a little more. I think she must have been an Italian mama in a former life!! 😀
BTW, Chick #1 is closest to the camera
A little “I love you ” with each bite….
I thought George was participating more, too…
It was very windy at the nest this afternoon. When George hopped down from the perch to the nest, he couldn’t control where he landed and landed right on Gracie 😀
He managed to fly up a little and came down right next to her — literally toe to toe!! 😀
I had to watch this a couple of times! He just sort of slid down her till he lifted himself up enough to land next to her!
George was watching anxiously as Gracie worked down to the end of the fish. e waned to gt a hold on it. I think he enjoys feeding hisfamily!
So much for multi-finger typing! Either back to 2-finger or remember to proof read!
17:59pm….another fish- possibly a butter fish…
George watching over his sleeping family……..
Temps to stay in low 70s overnight. Rain may hold off till morning, with t-storms possible and clearing by noon….temps high 70s
Another fish donates itself to the survival of our osprey.
George hangs around while the chicks are being fed. Does every one remember how Gracie used to be when the fish were delivered?-meaning past seasons…… She used to mantle over the fish and squawk until George left the nest before she would feed the chicks. They are so much better together this year….George often stays in the nest and they have had the group feeding sessions, which are so beautiful to watch!
It’s gotten very windy—Gracie is swaying, even the nest is swaying.
George got blown off course and landed on Gracie! He lifted back up and landed next to her, acting like nothing happened….
GEORGE! Not tonight!
Yea….another fish….happiness all around!
It looks as if there was lightning near the nest
yea! I slept thru it if we had any here…but explains why cat was in hiding when I had my usual mid-night wake up call
6-24-17 Betsy WOW with all that light hope it did not hit anything down below like Tommy’s house or just a tree. Amazing even during the lightening storms in past we never saw a pic like this one.
Mom is finishing last of fish when Junior wakes for next course…
Gracie tries a bigger portion…what are you thinking, Gracie?
slightly smaller, but still attached….
Gracie chokes it down…..
she finds another good size chuck which I thought was too big…
finds another piece which looked big…..
but was watching Mom’s technique!
12:40pm…..Yea, lunch! And look who’s peeping along with Gracie.
I may have missed a feeding, but I only saw one minnow delivered at 8 something this morning.
George brings in a nice stick…Gracie tells him she needs a break.
She glides gracefully in place, then dives…….
Was admiring how long the legs are and how he’s learning how to stand up….
…and not paying attention to why……..
No shortage of food at this
nest this year. A great year for fishing and that makes a great year for raising babes.
HAPPY FRIDAY,enjoying the view
Interesting view!
Amazing technique and photo!
6-24-17 Margaret R thanks I thought I would help everyone get a jump start on celebrating the weekend this will really make you question your vision.
First time I get to check in after a day and 1/2 and the lens has been decorated….
…..and they’re hiding in the Invisible Zone…..will have to check up on comments and pics later. All I can see right now is how healthy they look! That’s a euphemism for roly-poly, isn’t it?
Happy to see they have been eating well……..
6-24-17 CarolV this is what you get when you go back to work and didnt get to ck in for a day 1/2 you brought us bad luck. You know we count on you for your updates and weather reports and of course the main thing is your sense of humor. 🙂 Next time just take a day the 1/2 is what pushed it overboard heee
6-23-17 Found Saved VIDEO FR OUR BETSY LAST YEAR WITH THE CROWS, well guess we just forget over time since I found lots of pictures and this video of crows bothering the nest last year. This is why pictures and videos are PRICELESS. Just look at our family last year during the same time period June 21,2016 video. This is Brutus Ali, & Rocky.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_-lchc64ls
Gracie out for the count. I don’t recall ever seeing Gracie sleeping in the usual bird sleeping position on the nest!!
6-24-17 Betsy I saw her sleep like this 2 or 3 nights ago and I had to rewind several times to make sure she was sleeping. Pictures do not do it justice to see her in this position, but the Eagles sleep like that and maybe it is a sign of her maturity now. Guess we will never know.
Chick #1 was doing some earnest winger-sizing
Is it just my bad memory or are these guys ahead of schedule? Wingersize time already!
CarolV: I’m not sure but I think they may be!
6-24-17 CarolV I found a pic real quick showing Wingersize from last year on 6-22-16 so guess they did start at about the same time frame.
6-22-17 Yesterday, Cutest Ever, George provided shade not only to baby 1 and 2 but Gracie took cover under him and all took a nap after eating fish. Job Well Done Stud Muffin!
Adorable…..
Aww thanks CarolV
Rjoneal: I got a real kick out of watching that!!
Betsy it was the first time I seen Gracie intentionally get under him with the babies for shade. Usually you only see it if George is busy moving stuff around not paying attention.
The chicks are getting so big. I love watching Gracie trying to still sit on them!!
Agree and she still tries to huddle and sometimes rotate that egg even though she has to know its not viable anymore. The babies sure love to cuddle up and lay on and around it. Kinda like Yoga ball maybe it feels good.
Bobbie & CarolV you guys are spot on. I focused this morning on the insects in the nest. This year seems to be quite remarkable. At this stage in my career I can’t remember last evening’s dinner menu. Albeit, in comparison to the past the nest seems to be heavily infested with the little buggers. What a gorgeous sunrise- the North Fork a little proof that there is a heaven!
George doesn’t seem to have the feather mite problem. Could Gracie have brought them back with her after associating with some “dirty birds” while they were apart last winter?
Possibly George’s many dips in salt water help alleviate the problem??? He may not always go full immersion but any dips may help.
Perhaps. Gracie must have fallen in with a ‘bad crowd.’ lol
But, seriously, I was watching on a full screen the other day; there seem to be so many bugs in that nest.
6-24-17 Monica, Agree 100% more bugs than any previous year.
6-24-17 Reply-Bobbie I do not believe for sure its mites and definitely do not believe Gracie got on migration. It did not start till after the nest was built up and the fish and materials were coming in. There are at least 5 different bugs living in that nest and maybe more that we can not see. I think it is more likely from wood planks or grassy stuff or even just from crumbs and particles in nest. Sometimes the osprey will pick up a clump of trash and it will be loaded with bugs which then in turn end up in the nest.
Last year we had a lot of birds living below and they would come get scraps and bugs but this year they seem to just make an appearance and then disappear below again.
We actually believe their were 2 rounds of baby birds below last Season. It has been kinda quiet lately maybe soon we will hear all the birdie noise from down below like previous years.
The babies will itch due to the feathers. Also do not forget I posted awhile back article with website on feathers Gracie is itching due to that.
However, I do agree it does seem she has been itching more than usual and poor thing seems bothered by it sometimes you can see all the bugs crawling all over the nest.
Early morning quiet time
Patty K (and CarolV): Hi! The way to tell the chicks apart (for now!! 😀 ) is by the back stripe and the head stripe. Chick #2’s back stripe flares at the bottom and is wider at the top. In this picture chick #2 is on the left
And in this picture chick #2 is on the right.
The head stripe on chick #1 is thinner
Forgot to put that chick #1 is on the right
Many thanks dear Betsy! xoxo
BETSY—I printed out your i.d. chart a few days ago, but still not differentiating. Haven’t been able to watch as often.
Yesterday, poor George
was in the
line of fire!!
PS George was blasted by chick #1
Why does it feel like George is the target for target practice?
and I love that Gracie is just looking down at the little shooter…
Gracie trying very hard to fit over the chicks and tuck eggbert in, too!
Talk about food coma! These guys look like they are stuffed to their bums!!!!!!!!!
George tried to “top off” each chick, but a couple of bites and they were out for the count again.
Today was a beautiful June day! temps. in the 80s ….77 right now @about 6:30pm. Dropping to low 60s 0vernight. Looks like high 70s tomorrow and sun, sun, sun.
Dare I cheer too soon? See a lot of seaweed and grasses added to the nest and do not see the dastardly ribbon………but it has squirmed out before………..
I wish they would rebuild the crib rail on that top right edge. Just a worried “grandma” I suppose.
Sorry- meant top left edge, where it looks like some sticks are missing
One more look at the roly-polys!
6-22-17 CarolV thanks for weather report 🙂
Hey everyone! I haven’t been able to watch our family as much this year, but have checked in when I can to see how they are doing. I looked back, and didn’t see any posts to answer this question, so I’ll ask it now. I thought Gracie laid 3 eggs, and is that the 3rd one still in the nest? Since it has been 2 weeks since chick #2 hatched, is it likely that egg # 3 will not hatch? Or am I wrong and there were just 2 eggs?
Thanks for the help with this. And I am really enjoying looking at all the pictures and videos since I don’t get to watch live as much as last year.
I believe the egg is more than likely not going to hatch. it has been far too long and rarely sat upon
It’s probably a blessing in many ways, that it didn’t hatch. So much easier for the two chicks as opposed to three. Thanks for the reply!
Yes there were 3 and the 3rd was not viable…Past hatch time……and it is still there.
Very interesting. I never stop learning about these magnificent birds! Thank you for the reply!
Hi all. Good gracious is George good with big sticks or what! Wed pm 14:51 look back and see what he did. Unbelievable!!
Hi Rjoneal. I wanted to make a separate post to say hi- there are so many posts it is hard to keep up and find anything i posted but I caught your hello in an older thread. Happy first day of Summer!
Gina- 🙂
Hi All,
I unfortunately have noticed that the chicks have begun to like the right side of the nest where we can’t see them. That’s very disappointing and I hope that changes. I have also been quite surprised at the aggression between the chicks. I would have thought that things might have been calmer with only 2 chicks and Gorgeous George the Super Fisherman. I’m sure they are not hungry!
No, they just have a need to establish dominance. Probably practice for futures on their own…..rough to watch, but it’s nature. Puppies, kittens, many animals, also establish their “pecking order” but it often passes as play.
Gracie still had most of the 1st fish remaining and the chicks seemed full when George brought her another fish 13 minutes after he brought her the 1st fish!
6/21/17 4:32 p Need help from the Pros here- Betsy, RJ, Carol, et al, having a difficult time telling who is who, any specific markings to tell #1 from # 2?? Many thanks!
I generally wait till feathers come in but Betsy posted a few days back on her id’s…..I’m sure she’ll help you out…
Chick #2 is 2 weeks old today
6-21-19 Good Morning OZ
Diplomatic pink & blue—unknown gender for kids!
Carolv my thoughts as well 🙂
Hello Group
One of the Ospreyphiles mentioned something about a few Sparrows hanging around the Nest.
A few times a week I take a walk along Cedar Beach. There is an Osprey Nest with a Clutch. Sometimes I’ll bring my binoculars with me to observe the goings on in and around the Nest.
And what I noticed to my amusement is that a Family of Sparrows has attached their Nest to that of the Ospreys Nest. And what amazes me is that there is no Physical or Social interaction amongst their respective Families,it’s just like business as always. But I do believe that it maybe a symbiotic relationship where the Sparrows may feed off of the Fish dropping of the Ospreys
Mike
I was looking at several Web sites about this relationship ,and I saw the suggestion that, in addition to extra security and lodging convenience, the small birds eat insects attracted to the leftover fish, and the ospreys benefit from early warnings the small birds may provide. Fascinating.
6/20/17…8:40pmish…the wind has calmed down and its a peaceful nest. Gracie has been aerating under both chicks. All we can see is 2 butts from under Gracie though. The butts were both moving 🙂
Our handsome hero, relaxing with the fam….
Partner feeding–always a beautiful glimpse of their bond
George barely got one tug at this fish before Momma Bear came for it………..
She kind of tromped on the chicks while taking possession….
…but everyone is fine and feeding well! Amazing how much these fluffballs can take!
I think it is only one chick…..
Chicks at the perimeter of the nest….scary.
Gracie walking to George to get the fish he brought
A sparrow was checking out the nest this morning
Yes, yes, yes! Looks like that darn plastic cup has gone on its pesky way. Hopefully no more. Glad to see all made it through the storms.
Yes, that annoying cup, so getting in the way when Gracie was feeding the chicks …
Blew to the corner of the nest …
And, then, finally off the nest!! 🙂
YYYYYAAAAAAYY!!!!!!!!
Thanks Betsy for the update on that darn cup. I was wondering which way it ‘flew’ off. Love all the photos.
Good morning! A snack for all…
Rough night- hard rain and windy…..showers still passing thru on the east end, clearing soon….HAGD!
6-19-17 OZ FOLLOWERS- With so many other Osprey Nest being invaded by the crows and now our nest seems to be a target as well, thought it would be a good time to post some info on American Crow. CarolV and Betsy have been documenting and posting the day to day events with these crows coming to the nest and attacks to our George and Gracie.
Here is just lil info please click on link below to read more on the American Crows.
American Crows are familiar over much of the continent: large, intelligent, all-black birds with hoarse, cawing voices. They are common sights in treetops, fields, and roadsides, and in habitats ranging from open woods and empty beaches to town centers. They usually feed on the ground and eat almost anything – typically earthworms, insects and other small animals, seeds, and fruit but also garbage, carrion, and chicks they rob from nests. Their flight style is unique, a patient, methodical flapping that is rarely broken up with glides.
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Crow/lifehistory
Thanks for the info….I really do like and enjoy watching crows; I just don’t like the chick stealing part….
6-22-17 Welcome 🙂
George posing on his fish like a hunter posing with his trophy!
The showers are running thru now(about 8pm) I can hear thunder in the distance. We aren’t supposed to feel the full effects of this storm front on this end of the Island. West Nassau, the 5 boroughs of Manhattan and the counties of southern NY mainland are being warned of severe t-storms and flash floods. We show possibility of t-storms till midnight and further showers possible thru till morning. Temps hovering around 70.
Cloudy morning with a hopefully sunny afternoon. Temps mid to high 70s.
Dad??? ya gonna share?
George has a good meal…Gracie doesn’t harass him…then she gets control and has two eager customers.
Good to the last scale….one chick heading to bed, the other not far behind
Let’s see….do you guys mind separate rooms?
@ 7:51 George arrived with a fish. Gracie didnt show interest at first. So he started to east by himself. She then got up, both chicks and egg still there, and she went over to him cautiously. He then fed her. My thought at the time was what a bonded pair they are. He wasnt giving up the fish so she went back to the chicks and sat back on them as best she could.
I like this picture. George was taking a rest from working on rearranging the sticks in the right corner when the wind caught him and blew him back and Gracie threw up her wings 🙂
6-19-17 Had not had a chance to read comments but Gracie feeds George and WTR97 made a video of it. This person has been an Osprey Zone Follower since the start. Thank you for making the video and everyone please watch.
Love the video—hate the cup! Why does Gracie like things that flap and wave?
6-20-17 Reply- Carolv Gracie does love flappy things for some reason.
Great video That’s the nicest one I’ve seen yet. When you have one of those days, where you come home and you’re Ears are Bleeding from all the days noice it’s always nice to be able to watch a peaceful video and get ready for a good nights Sleep
Mike
6-20-17 Reply- Micheael G Martin glad you enjoyed the video. Such a good bonding family.
Fun video! I like how the chicks are passed out sleeping.
6-20-17 Reply- Marilyn G glad you liked the video and yes those babies crops full and they were in a food coma for sure. 🙂
Very very bad storm on the way.
Hello Group
Where I live, which is a stones throw away from this nest. There are quite a few Crows in the area. And what I have observed is that the Crows will attack another Birds nest and attempt to snatch up any food and worst yet the young chicks or the eggs in the nest. But what’s makes it interesting is that the other similar and smaller birds will attack the Crows and drive them off. After the Crows are driven away, the same birds will chase the crows relentlessly as far away as possible.
So maybe these Crows are looking to steal the chicks or the egg or left over food.But I’m surprised the Mom and Dad would let them that close to the Nest.
Mike
I suspect they are harassing George hoping for some fish. I have witnessed crows stealing chicks from nests, both in person and on video and it’s not pleasant….
When a crow stole chicks from a bluejay nest near me, at least 20 birds, of all kinds, chased that crow…and he still came back and methodically stole 2 more chicks.
Hopefully, our chicks are big enough now to be safe.
Michael, I also live in the area. I have also noticed a marked increase in crows this year. They can be very aggressive. I, too, often see little sparrows and waxwings chasing them like fighter pilots. I think G and G know they could kick a crow’s butt and just haven’t “pulled the trigger” yet. But if they keep it up it will make for interesting viewing!
Gina
I too have noticed a marked increase in the Crow population on the North Fork. At the beginning of Spring, I noticed a large Murder of Crows on the Bayside of the NF. I was wondering if it was Mating Season for Crows or they were gathering to feed on the Nests of smaller birds. But in all honesty I do cheer the smaller birds on against the Crows. I know that you are feeling the same way. And have you seen a lone Sparrow or Grackle relentlessly pursuing 2 or 3 Crows, that takes Guts
Mike
6-20-17 Gina Hi 🙂
It’s pretty windy today.
6-20-17 Leanne pretty windy is an understatement lately it seems like hurricane winds at the nest. Now you all are getting hot temperatures, are we sure we are not watching live from Florida….haaaaa Good picture
Fountain of Chick #2
Did that hit George in the head or is it just angle of picture? Looks pretty darn funny!
CarolV: Angle!! 😀
Can’t believe how fast these chicks growing. Could it be because there are only two to feed this year? Yes I think we are all concerned about that ribbon, wish it would blow away.Still watching every day but don’t post often as I haven’t a clue about technology, this is my limit. So enjoy all the great pictures and comments.
OMG that is the cutest thing I have ever seen on this nest. Gracie passing chunks to George and him feeding the chicks! So Precious! After the tragedy at Hellgate it is a joy to see this couple working their magic. I have watched since Pee Wee and I just love these two.
6-20-17 Poor Iris, I posted a picture on Osprey Zone showing the difference of the nests a while back and Iris is buried in snow laying and incubating her eggs. Very sad since she is a very old bird and losing her mate Stanley seems to have really brought her nothing but bad luck.
Anyways Gracie feed George in 2015 during the ration of fish due to fish kill but I do not think anyone witnessed her doing it last year. I think it was wonderful shows how bonded Gracie and George are. However if she had 3 babies I do not think she would have done it. I think having 2 babies is magical number better than just 1 but not to many with 2. Gracie sure seems to be more content and not as tired and worn out as she is with 3 babies.
They are growing fast and so entertaining.
So glad you are still with us and have been since the beginning, thanks for posting.
Love Our Osprey Family and Followers
Reply – Kathy Bartell correction there are some photos and JuneC reminded me that Gracie does feed George last season for some reason I don’t remember seeing it but it happened.
Take care
2:03pm 6/19…….George is feeding Gracie who is then feeding the chicks.
6/19/17 at 1:05 pm….that was a great feeding. It started at 1:05 pm and is still going on at 1:55pm. Both chicks have been fed till they wanted no more. The egg is still there.
Have not viewed the nest in a few days, wow, what a difference a few days makes. They have really grown and I am so glad. A few worries with fish and stick bashing, but see little ones rearranging nest twigs now and then – so cute. Darn plastic! My neighbors just make comments about me as I run around the property with a large trash bag picking up every-ones wind blown trash. Trash days/nights are the worse because of unsecured lids that crows, raccoons and the wind pick up then stuff just tumbles out and blows everywhere. We are surrounded by a really bendy creek that flows right into the Chesapeake Bay. ALL of our wildlife is at risk and it looks nasty too. Nothing like have handy dandy little and big bags stuffed in pockets to just pick it up and take it home to properly dispose of people. Sorry for the high horse, but it just gulls me to see trash on our lands and in our waters too.
Do want to thank everyone for the nice pictures and comments – wish all well. I just rely upon them so often to ‘catch up’ with the nest.
thank you for picking up trash! this is by far the “trashiest” nest I’ve seen. You would think the plastic cup would drive them crazy. and the ribbon…..
Thank you for your efforts!
And Gracie usually surrounds herself with flappy black plastic…as I’m sure you know! This looks like the “Good Housekeeping” version….
Chick #1 is 2 weeks old today
Caught a feeding about 0:501 hrs and was amazed at the size of the chunks of fish that the Chicks can handle. Gracie is great at Portion Control and it goes without saying a “Great Mom”
Mike
Check and double check!!! Marvel at how she increases piece size as they grow…
George brought a nice fish for lunch
I agree with that! Sometimes that’s what they look like!
LOL!! Sometimes I feel sorry for the fish since they’re always alive. 🙁
Oh well, that’s life.
I guess that third egg won’t hatch – which is a good thing!!
@4:46pm—-George brings in a juicy whole fish. Gracie didn’t even take the time to clean the face off. She started handing over pieces as soon as she could.
Gracie is constantly picking at her feathers – far more often than normal preening. I’m concerned that she has a serious case of feather mites. Anyone else make the same observation?
It does seem she is scratching and picking a lot. I think I mentioned previously how fleas have been an issue around here with many people I’ve spoken with. Perhaps whatever conditions that have caused a flea explosion may have caused an increase of whatever mites live in the nest….
Did you see that, George? The WHOLE thing!
By 2:05pm-gone…..
George brought in a nice big fish…………..one chick was front and center, almost under the fish when Gracie took it”’
the other woke up and stumbled and toddled his way over….
Space is limited…………….and someone is CHEATING!
Fish has arrived
Keeps telling me duplicate comment but I’m not seeing it on my “waiting moderation” posts….unless we’re turning pages…tring again, slightly diff
Yep—-turning pages…—-anyhow,sorry for doubles.
Gracie dumps chicks in her hurry to get up
Pesky crow follows George in
Gracie fed chicks; George took fish and brought it back about 9. Chicks got fed again. Then George came back to feed Gracie.
BTW this year there is a noticeable increase in the number and sheer physical size of the crows in the neighborhood
Are they massing for “The Birds”?
Fish is in!
About 7 a.m., George brought in a stick, with Mr.Crow right behind him…looked like he even pecked at him….giving George the appearance of hair extentions…
Hey!!!!!!! Watch it!
George makes his early morning stop-in to say Hi!
George is coming in being harassed by what looks like a crow
crow wasted its time…George delivers grasses/seaweed
then turns in defense………….
An intruder must have followed him, too. Here he is chasing Pesky away……Double drama!
I have noticed that crow(I guess) flitting around lately. Must be looking for leftovers.
There were brief showers after this..may be a couple more this a.m. The temps are high 60s, hovering right around 70-71 thru the day.
which will be cloudy.
Looking forward to pics loading in, as I missed yesterday completely.
Hope everyone has a good Sunday….and HAPPY FATHERS” DAY to all (where it applies)………and to GEORGE!
For the past several days, crows have been aggressively and relentlessly attacking George or Gracie when they were up on the perch and even doing the occasional hit on George or Gracie while they were on the nest. This morning Gracie got attacked on the nest. At a nest on the Chesapeake Bay there was a crow attack on the nest in May which destroyed two of the eggs and a second attack the next day which most likely left the third egg nonviable. I hope the crows don’t drive off George and Gracie and attack the chicks.
George getting attacked after he landed on the nest
More pictures of the crow attack on Gracie
Another picture … it was pretty brutal
The crow got a real good peck in at poor George
Okay, crow … time to go away!!
George with baby 1 and 2 what a good dad keeping his eye on them.
CUTE!!!!!!!!
tks 🙂
To All the Dads or Fathers this is for you!
As I correctly stated in my post on June 15, 2017 at 12:02 pm, the egg was buried. It did surface shortly after that, however, and throughout the day it surfaced, was buried, surfaced, etc.
I noticed several days ago G & G were spending more time standing around the nest, and wondered if they knew that this egg was not going to hatch and have been treating it as such.
No need for any replies, enough has been said on this matter. I don’t post very often and would like to feel that when I do any replies are of a friendly nature. This is a friendly site, so let’s keep it that way. Goodby.
Just wanted to say I saw it going under again yesterday…and it’s out again! That eggbert is taking on a life of its own!
Dear NJD, Very little doubt that G&G know the third egg is done and are treating it as such. Surprised they haven’t removed it but maybe that’s their way and just ignore it. Two successful young I believe is about average and just hope food remains plentiful and the young successfully fledge. Yours truly, Bob
I felt bad for chick #2 whose leg was caught in the ribbon — it struggle to reach Gracie to get fed. As far as I can tell, as of 1:25 pm, it was still tangled in the ribbon!
Hey, Rjoneal, maybe we should have a guess “which chick will be tangled in the ribbon and get flung out of the nest first” contest since the ribbon has been an issue for days now, tangling around George or Gracie and the chicks, especially on June 15th when the ribbon was folded in the chick’s wing and the chick was actually lifted up when Gracie flew off with the ribbon twisted around her legs.
I meant to type that it is chick #1 that is caught in the ribbon! I am very upset about the ribbon situation and the potential for disaster. Apparently Leanne and I are the only people concerned. Sad.
Nope. You two ladies are not the only ones who are very concerned about the kids and that ribbon………… Just because a lot of us do not mention things does not mean we do not care about this nest.
6-20-17 Reply-Karen Delong 100%Agree with you on this.
There’s no need to cause a panic when nothing can be done at this point human intervention is not recommended. By going up into the nest before the babies are able to fly could endanger them more unless a true rescue is needed.
This doesn’t mean we aren’t all sitting on pins and needles and having heart attacks every time that ribbon gets caught on one of the babies or George or Gracie it bothers us greatly but we can only hope they free themselves. Once again this is part of watching a nature live camera.
Thanks for posting your opinion take care talk to you later Osprey hugs!
Please don’t assume that the lack of comments about the ribbon represents a lack of concern.
6-20-17 Reply-Trinity well spoken. 😃
6-17-17 Have not been on site till just now noticed on rewind it looks like Gracie might have an injury under wing take a look for yourself. Not sure but does appear to be an injury but she is acting fine and when she goes in the saltwater it will clean it so it wont get infected. Do not worry if you see these pictures not meant to upset anyone just an observation. These are tough birds and will be ok as long as it does not get infected.