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An Intro to OspreyZone

The Story of DDT

Osprey Rescue

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Bald Eagles Visit Nest

Ospreyzone Highlights: May 21-29, 2020

OspreyZone Highlights: May 15-20, 2020 - The Intruder

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March 18, 2016 Timelapse

The Summer of 2015 by GinaM

Osprey Rescue Extended - July 30, 2015

Osprey Zone Highlights - June 28, 2015

Osprey Zone Highlights - June 19, 2015

osprey 07/11/15 squirt

First Sighting

George and Gracie's First Baby

Eggs Over Easy

Changing of the Guard

Breakfast is Served

Upgrading

Feeding Time

First Love

Let's Hang Out

Hard to Get

Little Brother

Intruder

Dinner is Served

OspreyZone Montage

OspreyZone Highlights: George Returns

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Belle’s Journey

Written by Dr. Rob Bierregaard & Illustrated by Kate Garchinsky

Take flight with Belle, an osprey born on Martha’s Vineyard as she learns to fly and migrates for the first time to Brazil and back–a journey of more than 8,000 miles.

Click HERE for more information!

IMPORTANT: Messages from osprey experts

Rob Bierregaard July 1, 2015 at 7:24 am
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.

4818eecc88292926c58414a82c884c71Paul 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.

Reprinted with the permission of John W. Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

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

In addition, Charles Eldermire, Bird Cams Project Leader, Cornell Lab of Ornithology Writes:

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

Paul,

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

“Interesting. They don’t often take over osprey poles—probably too small for them. They will coopt tree nests, which they can expand. We had a pair of eagles do this on the Vineyard. They built up the Osprey nest a lot and then the Ospreys came home and drove the eagles away, in a David v. Goliath story. The Ospreys successfully bred. They looked tiny in the nest, which sadly blew down this winter.”

    Leave A Comment

    52,629 Comments

    1. CarolV July 14, 2016 at 7:33 pm - Reply

      7:30pmEDT Big headless fish in by George. Lots of excitement from hungry kids. Gracie feeding 2 chicks on left. Other chick hangin’ with George on right. George is doing some calling.

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 7:45 pm - Reply

        It LOOKS like it might be Uno eating with Gracie. Trey grabbed a couple mouthfuls and is now trying her best to be inconspicuous. Not easy for her; she is a brave soul who doesn’t submit easy !
        ?Dos, presumably. worked his way in between the two by Gracie. Looks like two Biggies are stepping back and Trey is getting fed. But she’s stepping back, too, and complaining. Could they be thru that fish already? It looked good sized to me.

    2. Lisa July 14, 2016 at 6:56 pm - Reply

      Hi I have been watching and enjoying this for 2 years. I have never commented before. Just because people don’t comment on videos or pictures doesn’t mean we aren’t viewing or enjoying them! I feel like those that post videos or pictures should do it because they want to not to get feed back. Plenty of comments -no extra needed although I appreciate everyone’s efforts . I don’t know how to post those things nor have time but enjoy videos and fish counts!

    3. CarolV July 14, 2016 at 6:48 pm - Reply

      GinaM,- Did you watch the video recommended by Jp(K) 7/14 @7:59am post ?Just watching that bucket operator’s face gives you some small idea of how amazing it must feel to hold one of these beautiful creatures ! I wonder if he even knew what was in store for him when he got that assignment ! Lucky day for him !

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 7:25 pm - Reply

        Just saw your post about names..Hope someone enters those names..Redkayak, maybe, please? They’re good names and fairly gender neutral. I already submitted other names, too. This is turning out like the cartoon chipmunks..after you..no,no..after you..no,no………New names..Chip and Dale and……Munkey?

    4. Karen DeLong July 14, 2016 at 6:44 pm - Reply

      I have decided that Gracie needs to put osprey diapers on her kids very active bottoms!

      • CarolV July 15, 2016 at 7:11 am - Reply

        Can you see the little tiny box of gray pampers with little printed birds on them? A-dor-a-ble!

    5. CarolV July 14, 2016 at 6:19 pm - Reply

      Betsy…Just saw your post about videos. I’m sorry you feel that way. I know how much work (and coffee) it took to do all you did. I for one will miss them.

    6. Kathleen July 14, 2016 at 6:01 pm - Reply

      Hello all – Just wanted to say that I am having withdrawal symptoms from the lack of my Osprey Family. I cannot believe how many times I’ve checked in and have been disappointed.
      I know, I gotta get a life. I am sure that whoever is responsible for the window cleaning is doing the best that he/she could. Maybe they’re too busy and perhaps they need reinforcements. I hope that the minute I post this, the cleaner will activate. Here’s hoping.

    7. Jessica V July 14, 2016 at 5:41 pm - Reply

      Rain coming! Yay!

    8. Brenda July 14, 2016 at 5:38 pm - Reply

      cant see much today with the messy lens

    9. CarolV July 14, 2016 at 4:52 pm - Reply

      Incoming @ 4:50pm- sea robin maybe?

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 5:35 pm - Reply

        As long as Trey keeps that light head, I can spot her thru the fog…and she was eating @ 5:20 or so. The sky’s clouding over, making it more difficult to see. There’s possible t-storms forecast till about 9-10p.m.

    10. HollyW July 14, 2016 at 4:44 pm - Reply

      Love how baby#3(Rocky to me) took the remaining fish from Gracie at 15:20..such a fighter! He/she has a long way to go to , but I truly believe we are going to have 3 survivors this year 🙂

      • BirdRJSviewer16 July 14, 2016 at 7:03 pm - Reply

        My fav also cause its my nickname 🙂

    11. Pattye July 14, 2016 at 3:44 pm - Reply

      I appreciate your fish count too at the end of the day. Thanks!#

    12. Karen July 14, 2016 at 3:38 pm - Reply

      I am trying to post comments but then they disappear and now I can’t watch the videos folks post.. how do I get ‘approved’ to post.. i watch every day.. thankis

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 5:57 pm - Reply

        Posts sometimes take a while to show up. Notice they say “awaiting moderation”. If you go off the page, when you come back, you may not see your posts, but they are still in the “awaiting moderation” queue. Just as each time you leave the site, or page, you must refill your info under comments.
        Aidan, our moderator, does this when he can. Needs time off sometimes. Other sites have moderated chats during set hours. This site can be posted on at any time, but must await the moderator to sort thru the spam for legitimate comments.
        I don’t know what is going on with videos. Can’t view them here or on youtube. Waiting to hear “what up?”…..

        • Karen July 15, 2016 at 8:20 am - Reply

          Thanks for the feedback!

    13. CarolV July 14, 2016 at 3:32 pm - Reply

      2:37pm- big headless fish delivered by George. Gracie and Trey announce.

      Trey once again scarfs down the whole, huge piece of skin, refusing to let Gracie help tear it apart. She was vocalizing afterward and sounded like there was still skin in her throat! Guess her crop was that full!

    14. PattyK July 14, 2016 at 3:27 pm - Reply

      7-14-16 3:18pm Just LOVE the patience and feisty stance Lil bit just had at this feeding! Waited till she could get to Momma, and played tug o’war with her for this huge last piece of fish! It’s worth scrolling back to witness, wish I was more puter savvy to capture on video, hopefully our Betsy, Carol and rjoneal will be able to save it! Thanks xoxo

    15. Rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 3:16 pm - Reply

      7-14-16 Reply-BETSY
      What is wrong with your YouTube channel and all your videos they’ve been deleted off osprey zone and off YouTube ?
      What’s going on ,are you OK ,are you upset ,did you delete them on purpose ?

    16. rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 2:57 pm - Reply

      7-13-16 sorry everyone that info about mantling talks about the male doing it, I wanted to send about the females, I sent they wrong Mantling info I have way to many sites with info.
      I will try and find one that better talks about mantling what Gracie is doing.

      Betsy was right, Gracie just recently started this year but last year she did it all season and so did Ronnie and Sandy to protect what was theirs. Anytime they would get a fish. Now mantling didnt always work for Gracie, Sandy or Ronnie last year sometimes the one who did not have a fish would sneak under the one who did while he/she was mantling and grab that fish if they could.

      • Karen DeLong July 14, 2016 at 6:39 pm - Reply

        I didn’t know there was a difference between male and female mantling. The more I read these comments, the more I learn. ☺

    17. Paula July 14, 2016 at 2:52 pm - Reply

      Hi All,

      Is it that the wonderful lens cleaner is not working or are we being punished for some reason?

      Please, Please, Please clean the lens, we won’t do it again!

    18. Dorothy July 14, 2016 at 2:43 pm - Reply

      This is really different from watching the DCeaglecam parents. I never saw either one of them mantle over food. This mom is either really hungry or trying to show the kids how it’s done.

    19. CarolV July 14, 2016 at 2:38 pm - Reply

      2:15pm…the crazy bird was back and I finally got a picture ! Looks and sounds like a mockingbird. Gracie wasn’t happy with it, especially when it was on chicks side of nest; but not threatened enough to chase it.

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 2:48 pm - Reply

        Just saw Betsy posted video from earlier today with the crazy bird. For some reason, I can’t get it to pay, but will look forward to seeing it in action again. That bird is fast!

    20. rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 2:31 pm - Reply

      FOR ALL – Info on Mantling WEBITE W PICS BELOW

      exit63 April 17, 2015 Image Wildlife
      Mantling: Starving For Love

      The Precioussess
      A Mantling Osprey: The Precioussess
      Osprey romance is all about boys showing girls what good, reliable providers they are. That’s because the males provide almost 100% of the food during the incubation period when they are making their adorable baby monsters. It is a relationship of extreme dependence, so the ladies have to be absolutely certain their man will deliver those fish… and that’s a tall order. Because Osprey love their precious fish.

      Mantling is an adorable behavior where an Osprey basically goes all Gollum-like protecting its little fish. Osprey look very much like Gorillas when mantling. They hunch their shoulders up and spread their wings slightly, to shield their fish with their bodies. It is body language that screams “MIIIIINNNNEEE!!!11!!!” They will mantle almost any time intruders approach their fish, but they also do it at the nest with new, and prospective mates.

      PLLLEEEAAAAAZZZZ???!!11!!???
      PLLLEEEAAAAAZZZZ???!!11!!???
      It takes, like, a skabillion calories for an Osprey to catch a fish, so, since he catches them, the male always gets to eat first. He’ll then share the rest with his lady. But in early courtship, it sometimes takes a little bit for the male to get into “sharing mode”. Especially with younger males. It’s tough to guess exactly what is going through their little brains when they do this. Maybe establishing dominance? Maybe just a little manly selfishness? Maybe fear of commitment? Maybe one of those manipulative forms of flirting where you starve your love for affection to put his or her commitment to the test?

      Whatever the case, this ridiculous male acted like a clueless teenager (or maybe an Osprey Love Genius) when it came to wooing this catch-of-a-lady. He ate and returned to the nest, mantling like mad each time, no less than four times with this fish, until the female was forced to wail and beg for 15 mins just to get a little taste.

      He even, and I’m not making this up, took a nap with fish before letting her eat.
      Sleeping With The Fishes: He even, and I’m not making this up, took a nap with the fish before letting her eat.
      Observing this is as comical and irritating as watching teenagers in love, not knowing exactly how to cope with their feelings and acting contrary to their own interests, creating all kinds of unnecessary, annoying drama in the process. But soon, if these two are meant to be, this little boy will discover the greatest joy of all: that love is about sharing, and the joy of sharing with your true love is tastier than any fish you could imagine.

      https://exit63.wordpress.com/2015/04/17/mantling-starving-for-love/

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 6:13 pm - Reply

        That’s a funny AND informative post.!

      • Karen DeLong July 14, 2016 at 6:16 pm - Reply

        Very interesting! I never heard of this ‘mantling’ before.

    21. Bre July 14, 2016 at 2:03 pm - Reply

      rjoneal i’m very sorry, i got it confused probably because it was a reply at the bottom..YOU take awesome shots of the family i always have enjoyed your pics & comments!! Huggs 😉

      • Rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 7:20 pm - Reply

        7-14-16 reply Bre- we are all good but thanks for the hug needed that have been feeling a little down lately.

    22. Betsy July 14, 2016 at 1:56 pm - Reply

      I’m so glad that rjoneal posted that she is not doing the fish count anymore because she feels that she is wasting her time. Likewise, I will no longer post videos on OZ anymore because as rjoneal commented “no one has commented or even noticed.” I can literally count on one hand the number of people who have commented on the videos. The videos take time and effort to do especially when they are sequence videos. I will also stop wasting my time by posting information when people have questions. I can now sit back and enjoy watching G&G, look up information for myself, and make videos for myself to enjoy.

      • HollyW July 14, 2016 at 6:29 pm - Reply

        I for one really appreciate the fish count and your videos…due to my work schedule I don’t get to watch as often as I want. I do get a bird’s eye view of the nest on my daily walks.. I think Tommy is away and the reason we haven’t gotten a lense cleanse today! Unfortunately, think the rain is going to miss us too!

      • GinaM July 14, 2016 at 7:53 pm - Reply

        I have enjoyed all of your videos and comments, Betsy. I don’t post often enough and if i have not shown my appreciation I apologize.
        My work has kept from enjoying our osprey family as much as I was able to last summer.
        Your updates were very helpful to me when helping see what I missed.

      • NancyT July 14, 2016 at 8:50 pm - Reply

        As far as I can tell, not one of my comments or questions has been approved for posting. If this is the experience of others, maybe that’s why rjoneal and Betsy are feeling unappreciated?

      • June c July 14, 2016 at 9:41 pm - Reply

        Betsy I have enjoyed every video u have posted. Stopped watching live feed for a while but read comments, also have been traveling a lot and watching ur videos filled in the not so harsh moments. So sorry I have not said Thank You enough..hope the wonderful videos come back!

      • Kathleen July 15, 2016 at 10:43 am - Reply

        betsy – I should have acknowledged your fine work for the OZ. I for one enjoy your posts and I’ll wager many more people feel the same way I do.

      • Marilyn July 15, 2016 at 1:34 pm - Reply

        Betsy, I’m sorry as well that you won’t be posting videos anymore. I work full time & don’t always have to time to watch the Osprey “live”. Also trying to go back to look for videos is a task in itself. I’ve just recently been trying to see your videos. Thank you for the videos that you have posted.

    23. Pat July 14, 2016 at 1:39 pm - Reply

      Well said Margaret. When I read a comment from someone who complains about anything I cringe. The remarkable people who have made this possible only deserve everyone’s graditute. I have noticed that the people who spend the most time viewing and commenting do the most complaining.

    24. Sue July 14, 2016 at 1:35 pm - Reply

      I see their aim has improved. Hopefully the rain we’re supposed to have will help wash their ‘gift’ off the lense.

    25. Roberta July 14, 2016 at 12:54 pm - Reply

      So sorry about the condition of the picture. I miss seeing them. This is an amazing opportunity & I give heaps of thanks to those who make it possible.

    26. CarolV July 14, 2016 at 12:46 pm - Reply

      Again, Trey didn’t back down when she got the evil-eye..continued to eat. But it was a short rebuke and Trey got to go back in a minute or so.

    27. CarolV July 14, 2016 at 11:48 am - Reply

      11:45amET George in with fish #5? for the day….
      At my house, I became a voyeur to a sparrow courtship just now. It involved lots of chirping and dance steps by Mr.Sparrow. So I guess I witnessed the start of brood #3 for the summer. If I haven’t lost count! There are nests at opposite ends of my awning and he was suggesting they move to the left side. The previous fledges were hanging around by the right nest, where they were hatched. Very interesting!

    28. LynD July 14, 2016 at 11:43 am - Reply

      Reply to Jp(k) – Thank you for posting the link for the New Jersey osprey rescue. Very much like the rescue we
      had last year at this nest.

      • JP(K) July 14, 2016 at 1:39 pm - Reply

        Your welcome!

    29. Betsy July 14, 2016 at 11:38 am - Reply

      Chick #1 got dive-bombed by a mockingbird this morning.

      https://youtu.be/Dj7w77CKKiE

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 2:44 pm - Reply

        Betsy..It’s saying to sign in to view videos?????

      • L.C.Sylvester July 14, 2016 at 3:55 pm - Reply

        It says to sign in to view this video-how do I do that?????

      • Donna July 14, 2016 at 6:07 pm - Reply

        This video is private? You want someone to watch but I can’t view? Anyway, I enjoy everyone’s post, good, bad and indifferent. I can’t watch 24/7 just when I get off work I check in and on the weekends. Thank you all.

    30. Betsy July 14, 2016 at 11:22 am - Reply

      George did a double dip while trying to land on the nest this morning with a fish.

      https://youtu.be/5V-vYQyuiUs

    31. Elaine July 14, 2016 at 11:19 am - Reply

      Is it possible for a lens wash soon? The visibility is getting worse. Thank you.

    32. Debbie July 14, 2016 at 10:40 am - Reply

      Morningt, do we not have the auto washer anymore……. I can’t see…..Those babies have the perfect Aim…… LOLOL 🙂 Thanks

    33. CarolV July 14, 2016 at 10:32 am - Reply

      10:30am…George on the ball with at least the fourth delivery today ! Gracie came from perch to greet him and he left. The rest is a mystery. I think it was a good size fish.

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 10:36 am - Reply

        George upstairs watching over them…alarm calls @10:35

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 11:19 am - Reply

        Just for the record, going back thru comments, I don’t see any bickering…just people saying they had already suggested certain names.,,And it wasn’t a free-for-all last year, but done in an orderly manner.

    34. Karen DeLong July 14, 2016 at 9:36 am - Reply

      Wish we could get a wash for the camera lens. It’s really getting foggy. ?

    35. CarolV July 14, 2016 at 9:19 am - Reply

      As far as I can tell, there have been 3 deliveries this a.m., unless I missed an early, early one…7:01, 8:11 & 9:00. Can’t say who ate, who fed, who did what. Just happy to know food is happening. Attaching the 8:11am down the middle delivery.
      Did a second shot happen? ‘Cause there looks like an additional coat of paint on the lens………..

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 9:46 am - Reply

        I THINK George is doing the 9o’clock feeding.

      • Betsy July 14, 2016 at 11:43 am - Reply

        Nice shot, CarolV!!

        And, yes, there were 3 fish as of 9 am with the times you have. But as rjoneal says, I need a pair of glasses after trying to see who got fed … but as far as I could tell they all ate with Trey getting solo feeding from George when he brought the last fish at 9 am. 😀

        Rjoneal, can I have the glasses back?? 😀

        • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 2:42 pm - Reply

          X-ray glasses needed, thank you….

      • SYLVIA July 14, 2016 at 8:59 pm - Reply

        Thank you for letting us who could not watch this morning, or today know. I worry so about little one. Tonight he went to bed hungry = just when I thought he was going to feast, one of the biggies moved back in and stuffed in all the fish. Mom and try kept calling for more, but the sun went down and little one only had a few bites to eat. Then the two biggies started to roam around and stepped all on little one’s neck and head, then they wingersized and when little one tried to do it, was pecked into cowering. So horrible for this one. I really keep pulling for it to make it through and fly away as a young adult.

    36. rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 8:43 am - Reply

      Osprey Follower:
      I will stop wasting my time by posting the fish totals of the day!
      At one time some asked if it could be done and since I do it for my notes I started posting every night at the end of the day for the past 3-4 days since no one has commented or even noticed , I truly have better things to do with my time.
      Sorry to sound mean I was just trying to improve our Osprey Site and stop all the comments on who is eating and did so and so eat ?

      Love our Osprey Family

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 10:04 am - Reply

        Thanks for your efforts. Just happy to see they are getting fed regularly.

        • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 10:10 am - Reply

          I don’t know if you saw my comment re: fledge scedge…anyone who wants can make a prediction and anyone interested can keep their own calendar. That’s what I did for hatch day.

      • margaret July 14, 2016 at 10:20 am - Reply

        rjoneal… please don’t stop posting, your pictures are incredible

      • Renee July 14, 2016 at 10:27 am - Reply

        I can’t speak for anyone but myself but being new here this season I do appreciate the fish tallies, thank you! Along with your pic as well… I wish I could watch 24/7 however I watch when I can and do love this Osprey family and have been cheering for #3! (I normally watch the Eagle cams but we have 3 osprey nest in my ‘neighborhood’ and have become hooked!)
        Thanks again…

      • Kathleen S July 14, 2016 at 11:12 am - Reply

        Honestly, that’s much more useful to the study of Osprey than most comments left on this page. The data you collect can be used in research, and it’s a very positive thing that has come out of nestcams. You’re more of a citizen scientist, and have much more worthwhile content in your posts than things such as “I’m worried they might fall out of the nest” or “I wish someone would clean the lens etc so I can watch my show”. The webcams should be a window for education, not entertainment. Too often do people forget that.

        • Karen DeLong July 14, 2016 at 6:28 pm - Reply

          Kathleen….. I understand, but a lot of us folks have never viewed an osprey family before. And yes in some part, it is entertaining to some people and that’s just fine. Even when folks watch for that purpose, they are still learning. And THAT’S what this Web page is for.

      • Kim July 14, 2016 at 11:34 am - Reply

        Please don’t stop, I look forward to your fish count and comments

      • Wendy July 14, 2016 at 12:01 pm - Reply

        I was paying attention! Also, I’ve been impressed by your dedication. Thank you.

      • Kathy B July 14, 2016 at 12:54 pm - Reply

        RJ…I noticed and appreciate your count. Just didn’t reply.

      • JP(K) July 14, 2016 at 1:43 pm - Reply

        If you want to do a daily fish count, do so. It helps us who peek in for a few minutes a few times a day to know how they are doing. If the admins have issue with it, which is the only ones that really matter, they won’t post it. If anyone is giving you a hard time, ignore them.

      • Rose Petejan July 14, 2016 at 3:28 pm - Reply

        rjoneal, I really appreciate all the time you take to post the information and ask that you don’t stop.

        For those of you who aren’t interested, why not just scroll past the information and allow those of us that appreciate it the opportunity to follow along.

      • june c July 14, 2016 at 3:32 pm - Reply

        Should have thanked you much sooner…I too appreciate all you that you do!

      • PattyK July 14, 2016 at 3:33 pm - Reply

        dear rj- please continue to keep us informed – we really appreciate all your efforts! Just know that many of us do not post very often, but really love all of the videos, photos and information that you provide! Hugs to you!

      • Karen DeLong July 14, 2016 at 6:32 pm - Reply

        Well I for one always enjoyed your info AND your pics! I’m not a computer geek, so when you folks post this or that, or use this what’s a ma jig for whatever, my eyes start to cross.

      • SYLVIA July 14, 2016 at 9:00 pm - Reply

        I do enjoy your fish count as often at work and long long commute each way I do not get to watch, and so cross my fingers for little one to keep being fed. Thanks for your count.

    37. rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 8:18 am - Reply

      7-14-16 reply- Robin thanks, I know the pic I took of Bb3 and George prior to that, they looked good together,I wonder though I see bb3 has alot Gracie too and her habits its a mix for me only !
      _________________________
      Robin July 13, 2016 at 7:35 pm
      Very handsome – I think baby #3 looks just like him! But he’s the baby daddy!

    38. rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 8:14 am - Reply

      7-14-16 Reply- kKathleen thanks for noticing, Gracie has here a nice looking fellow and we know he is strong and brave.
      ____________________________________________
      How nice! Thanks for the image. He sure is handsome

    39. rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 8:11 am - Reply

      7-14-16 Reply- GinaM You make laugh STUD MUFFIN!
      _____________________________
      GinaM July 13, 2016 at 3:53 pm
      Stud muffin.

    40. rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 8:09 am - Reply

      7-14-16 Reply- Helen Geo is Handsome, was going to enhance but instead left it raw sometimes I think natural can be better most my pics.
      _______________
      Helen July 13, 2016 at 10:20 pm
      A stunning picture – he really is quite handsome. Thank you.

    41. rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 8:05 am - Reply

      7-14-16 Reply – Monica thanks for looking and noticing.
      ______________________
      Monica July 13, 2016 at 4:51 pm – Reply
      Great pic!!

    42. rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 8:04 am - Reply

      7-14-16 Reply Thank you, it is hard to get them all in the nest with George and Gracie and I really liked the way Georges wings up just wish I could have gotten his head too oh well still love to see all the bb and parents together.
      _________________________________
      L.C Sylvester July 13, 2016 at 1:07 pm –
      Beautiful capture!!! Love this pic! Thank you

    43. Jp(K) July 14, 2016 at 7:59 am - Reply

      Some interesting events from New Jersey…. osprey chick rescue. http://www.conservewildlifenj.org/blog/2016/07/13/the-inspiring-story-of-osprey-39d/

      • Claire July 14, 2016 at 10:18 am - Reply

        That was amazing!! Thank you.

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 10:29 am - Reply

        Excellent..Thank you! Worth a tear or three! And that bucket operator! He was thrilled to be a part of it..not just another day at work! T Y !

        • JP(K) July 14, 2016 at 1:37 pm - Reply

          I know, he actually flipped the boom mechanism UPSIDE DOWN from how they normally use it to get to the nest… his controls were then working backwards from the way he normally uses them. I love ospreys, but if were me I would have at least paused and thought long and hard about it before I continued…

      • June c July 14, 2016 at 4:13 pm - Reply

        So happy for 39… Very lucky Osprey!!!!!

      • BirdRJSviewer16 July 14, 2016 at 10:45 pm - Reply

        Thanks for sharing. Great outcome!

    44. Rob Bierregaard July 14, 2016 at 7:51 am - Reply

      Hey Ospreyzoners,
      I’m up at Hog Island in Maine running the Raptor Rapture camp. We banded the three chicks in this nest (Bremen, ME) on Tuesday. All went well and the chicks have some fancy jewelry. I’ve been too busy to check in with George and Gracie and their family. Delighted to see how well the not-so-little-anymore guy is doing. Certainly looks like I was wrong when I chimed in a couple of weeks ago with concerns for his (?) chances. Sometimes it’s good to be wrong!

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 9:49 am - Reply

        It’s good to know even the experts can admit to being wrong. Thanks for checking in. You sound busy, busy.

      • rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 10:30 am - Reply

        7-14-16 Rob- You are the one who has been studying and taking care of all Ospreys along with all the projects you do how could you say you were wrong? You simply based it upon your years of experience. Glad to see that you are always open to admit we are still learning about these birds. Just when you think you know how history has showed you the end of the story we get to see how things are always changing and no one really knows. Glad it was successful tagging the birds in Hog Island. Safe Travels !

        PLEASE LOOK AT THE PICS that several of us have posted in past couple of days this is new to us and we love it. Pics tell a story.
        I posted one of Bb3 Full crop myself back on July 11, 2016 at 2:22 pm

      • GinaM July 14, 2016 at 11:55 am - Reply

        Hi Rob,
        How exciting!!! What does it feel like to hold one of these magnificent birds?? It is my dream to do that.
        Our little Rocky holding his own and is destined to be king of the Amazon this winter 😉
        gina

    45. DarDar July 14, 2016 at 7:43 am - Reply

      At 7:01 Big fish came in and Littlist got right up front and got first little feeding with no pecking and came back in shortly after 1&2 ate some and got more and more. good start to day!

    46. Betsy July 14, 2016 at 12:49 am - Reply

      CarolV: Yes, Gracie has been doing mantling sporadically for I’d say about a week now.

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 10:54 am - Reply

        Feeling the pressure or teaching a lesson? She got over it while George stayed there.

        • Betsy July 14, 2016 at 1:29 pm - Reply

          I don’t know how mantling works because I started watching OZ I guess when last year’s chicks Ronnie and Sandy were I think a little older than the two oldest chicks now (it was 2 or 3 days before that big storm when Ronnie and Sandy were hanging onto the nest for dear life and then the feed went out!!) and when George brought a fish that’s all I ever saw her do!! I was surprised after the chicks hatched this year not to see her doing mantling … I’m going to have to find out more!!

    47. Betsy July 14, 2016 at 12:37 am - Reply

      The chicks each took a turn winger-sizing.

      https://youtu.be/zcqa-iE4zc8

    48. Betsy July 14, 2016 at 12:11 am - Reply

      George flying in with a fish on 7/11/2016 at 18:22 hrs

    49. Marilyn July 13, 2016 at 10:20 pm - Reply

      Scrolled back to around 8 pm 7/13 to see Gracie feeding the lil one with the sun setting. Even through the foggy or whatever camera lens, was so cute. Oh did I mention the fish was still alive?

      • SYLVIA July 14, 2016 at 8:45 am - Reply

        Yes!!! Last night and the night before when the third fish came both nights our lil one got stuffed. Do hope those late evening/night fish keep coming so he can get a good stuffing before going to snooze land.

    50. Betsy July 13, 2016 at 10:01 pm - Reply
    51. Betsy July 13, 2016 at 9:33 pm - Reply
    52. Bre July 13, 2016 at 9:21 pm - Reply

      redkayak: I absolutely just LOVE the “Crowed House” pic WOW! What a FANTASTIC FAMILY! says a thousand words thank you 🙂

      • rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 8:45 am - Reply

        7-14-16 Reply -Bre that was my pic but thank you anyways!

    53. Marlene July 13, 2016 at 9:15 pm - Reply

      Happy to report that George delivered another whole fish at 20:02, and even happier than Peanut was the first on the scene, as usual. Gracie gave her a huge meal, and I think she was followed by #2. When #2 was done, #3 went back for more, and then #1 came alive and showed up on the scene, but there was not much left. However, I did not see any pecking. So happy about that! Have a good night, osprey family and ospreyites. And again, thanks especially to Paul for all he has done to keep this website operating, to Tommy, for allowing the feathered family to reside on your property and share them with us, and to Aidan, for putting up with all of our comments.

    54. rjoneal July 13, 2016 at 9:06 pm - Reply

      FISH TOTALS FOR 7-13-16 ( once again seconds may vary in the time depending on when you count arrival in fish this is just my observation that I am sharing not an expert at all)

      1) 5:52.23 am whole fish – None for Bb3
      2) 6:54.02 am head off –Bb3 gets all crop full, except Gracie eats tail
      3) 7:57.21 am whole fish-Bb3 gets some
      4) 9:50.38 am head off -? Didn’t not see if bb3 got any but don’t think so (lens squirted )
      5) 11:50.46 am whole fish –Bb3 eats first, some then bb1 bb2 eat
      6) 14:22.04 pm whole fish-Bb3 only gets to eat tail (Note- he /she is getting really good at swallowing down the whole tail all in one swallow)
      7) 15:46.12 pm whole fish -Bb3 eats first gets a lot crop full
      8) 17:12.32 pm head off –Bb3 only gets to eat tail
      9) 20:01.55 pm whole fish –Bb3 eats first full crop

      Pic of Bb3 crop full today and Geo up close bb1 bb2 in backround of course squirt on lens thats why its not clear

      • GinaM July 14, 2016 at 11:58 am - Reply

        This is amazing. Thank you RJOneal. And I, for one, APPRECIATE the fish count. I am so impressed with George this year I just love him! I remember catching him last summer hanging out over a field when poor Gracie and the chicks were starving. What a difference a year makes 🙂

    55. Karen DeLong July 13, 2016 at 8:45 pm - Reply

      Any chances of trying to the lens clean? Thanks!

    56. Michael G. Martin July 13, 2016 at 8:35 pm - Reply

      To The Group
      Re: Contest to name Chicks

      I have been reading the comments that were posted since the Contest was announced in regards to the naming is the Chicks. I have noticed that there have been some heated discussions and some subtle ones also concerning the who picked what name first and why there comments are not being posted in regards to the Contest.
      It seems to me and this is only my opinion that this contest has turned into a competition pitting one friend against the other friend.
      I believe the intention of the contest was suppose to be a Friendly Competition amongst Friends. For lack of a better word, it has turned in my opinion Ugly
      People, we are Friends here and we shall remain Friends. We have gone through quite a lot here what with us worrying about Chick #3’s health and the attack by Trolls
      What we should have had was a Pool of Suggestions for names then everyone could have picked their favorites and then throw them into a Hat and picked the names that way so nobody’s feelings were hurt and all this done anonymously.
      Friends, all of what I posted are my gut feelings and I don’t mean to hurt anybody in the process But I just don’t want to see all of my Dear Friends fight over a Name

      Mike.

      • Margaret July 14, 2016 at 6:11 am - Reply

        Thank you for stating the obvious. I have seen these heated comments and find it unfortunate that we have this shameful bickering. I come to this site to see Mother Nature at work and to realize how difficult it is to survival in this world. The birds display, everyday, how difficult it is to make it. I applaud all of them every day for their tenacity and beauty. Perhaps it would be a better idea if the management of this site were to choose three options from all of our suggestions for us to vote on – something less competitive and more loving. We are so many excellent minds watching and reading at this beautiful site. Naturally, there are going to be duplicate choices in the names. I am sure glad I am not Site Management, who now has to see who “first submitted whatever name.” Seems like a lot of work for what????? Management — pick two or three suggestions from our thoughts and then we will vote to end any claim to the name by any one individual. Forget the prize from the Zone store. What we need is not a prize for a name. We need harmony, friendliness and most of all joy in the naming of these most beautiful gifts to us all. Thank you Site Management for giving us all this gift. The least we viewers can do is be grateful………also, the complaints and the timeliness of the lens showers. People, Tommy will shower the lens when he can and when he see fit. Isn’t it enough that his beautiful mind went the extra mile to provide a solution to the problem. We do not need to hound him verbally as we comment.

        • Joan July 14, 2016 at 11:38 am - Reply

          Well said, Margaret. The birds don’t care about names. This is a wonderful site for which I am extremely grateful. What a gift to be able to watch these beautiful creatures!

    57. Kathleen July 13, 2016 at 8:27 pm - Reply

      Has anyone noticed if Gracie provided a fish yet?

      • CarolV July 14, 2016 at 9:23 am - Reply

        I haven’t seen that. Just sticks. Oh, almost forgot-PLASTIC.

      • rjoneal July 14, 2016 at 10:11 am - Reply

        Pic of 7-13-16 Big fish 1st one of the day Gracie takes fr George bb in the nest

        7-14-16 Kathleen, Gracie will not fish at all while she is with George it is very rare some females will only do if mate doesn’t come back or starvation. Once Gracie returns to build the nest and starts courtship with George she pretty much stops fishing for herself and George provides until they go their separate ways to migrate. At the beginning during courtship and mating George would come to nest and delivery fish to Gracie and they start their bonding with fish then if Gracie approves they start their bonding with building the nest together and then mating. George or the male is the sole provider especially once eggs have been laid. Even last year Gracie did not fish or we dont think she did we cant say for sure. The male osprey has a beak better for tearing tough parts on the head of fish they believe this is why most males eat the heads off for the females before delivering the fish to the nest. The female ospreys beak is a little different than the males.
        But there are exceptions and our family is rare studied by the specialist since Gracie will take the whole fish even if Geo tries to eat head off she will do it herself this is not the case with most nest at all which makes Osprey Zone Ospreys Special.
        In the past comments their have been many articles about this and even last year. I dont have time to look up all the info for you but Please take some time now would be good since lens is not clear and read some of the links and info that has been posted. I know I have posted in past along with Betsy and many many others about this.
        HERE IS BRIEF INFO POSTED RECENTLY LOOK FOR *** IN REF TO YOUR ?

        Osprey Pandion haliaetus

        What do they look like?
        Ospreys are large birds of prey (55 to 58 cm long), with a wingspan from 145 to 170 cm. Their long wings have are bent at the carpal (“wrist”) joints. They are bright white underneath, with dark brown patches at the carpal joints and a speckled dark brown necklace. They have a dark stripe through each eye, and a dark brown back. Ospreys have light blue-gray feet, yellow eyes and a black beak. Juvenile ospreys look a lot like adults, but their dark feathers have light colored tips that make them look speckled on their backs and wings. They also have orange eyes. Ospreys begin to look like adults when they are about 18 months old. (Poole, 1989; Poole, 1994; Snyder and Snyder, 1991)

        Female ospreys are usually bigger than males. They have a bigger wingspan (5 to 10% longer than males) and are heavier. In North America, male ospreys weigh 1200 to 1600 g and females weigh 1600 to 2000 g. Female also usually have darker feathers than males. (Poole, 1994)

        Ospreys in different regions of the world look a little different from one another. For example, ospreys that live in tropical regions are smaller than ospreys that breed farther north or south from the equator. There are four subspecies of ospreys. Each of these lives in a different region of the world and looks a little different. (Poole, 1994)

        Ospreys have several adaptations for hunting fish. They have long legs for reaching into the water and dense, oily plumage that keeps them from getting waterlogged. They also have special valves that keep water out of their nostrils when they dive for fish. Osprey feet are specially adapted for holding on to slippery fish. They have spiny footpads called spicules, long, sharp claws, and a toe that can be turned backward to keep fish from escaping.. (Poole, 1994; Snyder and Snyder, 1991)

        Other Physical Features endothermic homoiothermic bilateral symmetry
        Sexual Dimorphism female larger sexes colored or patterned differently
        Range mass
        1200 to 2000 g
        42.29 to 70.48 oz
        Range length
        55 to 58 cm
        21.65 to 22.83 in
        Range wingspan
        145 to 170 cm
        57.09 to 66.93 in
        Where do they live?
        Ospreys have a worldwide distribution. They live on every continent except Antarctica. Ospreys do not breed in South America or Indo-Malasia, but they sometimes live there in the winter. Large populations of ospreys are found in Scandinavia and the Chesapeake Bay region of the United States. There are four subspecies of ospreys, which are found in different regions of the world. (Poole, 1989; Poole, 1994; Poole, et al., 2002; Steidl, 1991)

        Biogeographic Regions nearctic native palearctic native oriental native ethiopian native neotropical native australian native oceanic islands native
        Other Geographic Terms holarctic cosmopolitan
        What kind of habitat do they need?
        Ospreys have a wide distribution because they are able to live almost anywhere that has safe nest sites and shallow water with lots of fish. Nests are usually found within 3 to 5 km of a water body such as a salt marsh, mangrove (Rhizophora) swamp, cypress (Taxodium) swamp, lake, bog, reservoir or river. (Poole, 1989; Poole, 1994)

        Ospreys need structures that can support their big nests, and that are safe from climbing predators, like raccoons. In order to be safe from predators, ospreys usually build their nests in places that are difficult for predators to reach, like on the side of a cliff, or over water or on a small island. Over-water nests are built on structures like buoys, channel markers, dead trees and special platforms that people build for ospreys. Ospreys also nest on other man-made structures that are very high, like power poles, radio and TV towers, buildings and even billboards. (Ewins, 1996; Henny and Kaiser, 1996; Poole, 1989; Poole, 1994; Poole, et al., 2002)

        These animals are found in the following types of habitat temperate tropical terrestrial saltwater or marine freshwater
        Terrestrial Biomes forest rainforest mountains
        Aquatic Biomes lakes and ponds rivers and streams coastal brackish water
        Wetlands marsh swamp
        Other Habitat Features suburban riparian estuarine
        How do they reproduce?
        Some ospreys live in the same place all year. These ospreys are called “residents” or “sedentary.” Resident ospreys usually start breeding between December and March. Other ospreys migrate between their breeding grounds and wintering grounds. These ospreys breed in areas where it is too cold to spend the winter. Migratory ospreys breed later during the year than residents. They start breeding in April or May. (Poole, 1989)

        In migratory osprey populations, the male usually arrives at the nest site a few days before the female. When the male has chosen a nest site, he often performs a flashy aerial flight display near the nest site. Males probably perform this display to attract females and to scare off other males. The male and female build the nest together, using sticks for the outside and softer materials like seaweed, kelp, grasses or cardboard for the lining. They often also include trash that they find laying around, including fishing line, plastic bags and soda cans and bottles. Osprey pairs use the same nest year after year, so returning pairs do not need to build a nest. However, each spring they must spend some time repairing their nest and adding materials before they can lay eggs. (Poole, 1989; Poole, 1994)

        KATHLEEN READ HERE FOR YOUR ?
        *****Once a pair has built their nest, the male begins to deliver fish to the female. The male brings food to the female so that she will mate with him. The male continues to hunt all of the fish for the female and the chicks until the chicks have fledged. Once the chicks start flying, the female begins hunting too. (Poole, 1989; Poole, 1994)

        Ospreys are normally monogamous. One male mates with one female, and mating pairs stay together until one of them dies. However, males occasionally have more than one mate. This is called polygyny. When this happens, it is usually in areas where nests are very close together, so that the male can defend and bring food to both nests. (Poole, 1994)

        Mating System monogamous polygynous
        Ospreys are able to breed when they are three years old. However, in areas where there are not enough nest sites, ospreys may not breed until they are five years old. Once they have begun breeding, ospreys breed once per year. (Poole, 1989; Poole, 1994)

        Non-migratory ospreys breed in the winter and spring and lay their eggs between December and March. Migratory ospreys breed in the spring and summer and lay their eggs in April and May. The female lays one egg every day or every other day until she has laid two to four eggs. The male and female both incubate the eggs, which hatch after about 40 days. Because the eggs are laid one or two days apart, they also hatch one or two days apart. Chicks that hatch first are bigger than the other chicks and are usually dominant over the smaller chicks. If the parents cannot provide enough food for all of the chicks in the nest, the smallest chicks do not get enough food and sometimes die. This is called brood reduction. (Ehrlich, et al., 1988; Poole, 1989; Poole, 1994; Snyder and Snyder, 1991)

        When osprey chicks hatch, they are covered in white down with brown streaks on the face, back, and wings. When the chicks are 10 days old, the white down is replaced by charcoal-colored down. Chicks begin to grow feathers when they are two weeks old. Osprey chicks begin to fly when they are 48 to 76 days old. Once they can fly, osprey chicks begin to hunt for themselves, though they usually also take food from their parents until they can catch enough fish to feed themselves. (Poole, 1989; Poole, 1994)

        • Kathleen July 14, 2016 at 7:46 pm - Reply

          rjoneal -Thank you for your kind explanation. I really appreciate your insight

    58. Betsy July 13, 2016 at 7:59 pm - Reply

      Who knew a piece of fish skin could make for comedy?

      https://youtu.be/R1BJH84KcyU

    59. Betsy July 13, 2016 at 6:50 pm - Reply
    60. Ginger G July 13, 2016 at 6:46 pm - Reply

      Whoa! I think I just saw little one eat the whole tail at 3:03pm!

    61. CarolV July 13, 2016 at 6:45 pm - Reply

      Gracie needs to take a dive…some little sweetheart got her! KIDS!
      She’s asking for more fish…must have checked that clock to see George is late.
      Possible thunderstorms later tonight and again tomorrow. Light show!
      I love the new photo feature ! So many different eyes with different perspectives ! Love it, love it, love it!

    62. Marlene July 13, 2016 at 5:50 pm - Reply

      This is the first time I’ve been able to log on today, and looked back and saw George delivered fish at: 14:22, 15:46, and 17:12. The second fish (15:46) was a big one, and I was glad that #3 ate so much of it. Our favorite did not get anything from the 14:22 fish — only the tail, as usual. So, the other two were full when he brought in the second fish and Peanut filled her crop. I also did not see her get picked on, which was a blessing. That little neck needs to heal. And, I agree, she needs to lie low. As far as the third fish that I saw, I think they all had some of it. I don’t know when Gracie actually gets to eat, but I would think that somehow, somewhere, she does. And, I saw Peanut flapping his wings for the first time at 17:31. I don’t know if she’s done it before, but I did note it at that time. Yes, the nest is REALLY going to be crowded now, with three chicks wingersizing. Thanks to everyone’s comments to keep me up to date, and to rjoneal for noting the number of fish deliveries.

    63. CarolV July 13, 2016 at 5:43 pm - Reply

      Redkayak, GinaM, and Marion..are you guys planning on entering Gardiner and Marion this year? Because my 3rd choice was Peconic. I would be happy to see those names submitted.

      • CarolV July 13, 2016 at 6:46 pm - Reply

        I submitted something else, but I guess we can’t peek at other submissions…boo-hoo

    64. CarolV July 13, 2016 at 5:24 pm - Reply

      I used to watch a cartoon about a vulture family and laugh at how exaggerated their folded wings were drawn. Now I realize, they were accurate! So impressive now; and then they unfold them !!!

    65. Karen DeLong July 13, 2016 at 4:43 pm - Reply

      I love to fish and sometimes I’m better than others. But I sure wish I had Georges expertise on this. And I see Momma is feeding #1 (I think….). 1642pm

    66. Twinsmom July 13, 2016 at 4:25 pm - Reply

      Sometimes it pays to be patient. George brings in a big fish and the older, bigger two share it and finish it off. Younger, smaller chick doesn’t get any (thanks to big sibling bonking). But wait, George brings in another big fish and youngest gets it all to himself. Doesn’t have to share. I think he’s on the better end of that deal.

    67. Lady Di July 13, 2016 at 3:57 pm - Reply

      HUGE fish by George about 3:45pm!

    68. Betsy July 13, 2016 at 3:55 pm - Reply

      Good answer Rjoneal (re: July 13, 2016 at 12:18 pm comment in answer to comparison of Steve’s fish catch number to George’s), but I’m going to expand it further:

      Steve and Rachel’s nest:
      Their nest is located on Hog Island, an island spanning 330 acres located in Muscongus Bay in Bremen, Maine. It is a part of the Todd Wildlife Sanctuary, which includes an additional 30 acres on the mainland across from the island.
      Maine population estimates, July 1, 2015, (V2015) 1,329,328 (http://www.census.gov/quickfacts/table/PST045215/23)

      George and Gracie’s nest:
      Their nest is located in east Marion, NY – a hamlet located in Suffolk County which makes up the eastern half of Long Island.
      Suffolk County population estimates, July 1, 2015, (V2015) 1,501,587 (http://www.census.gov/quickfacts/table/PST045215/36103)

      So, consider this:
      Steve and Rachel’s nest is located in a SANCTUARY and in a state that has FEWER people in the WHOLE STATE than in SUFFOLK COUNTY in New York in which George and Gracie’s nest is located.

      Consider the pollution and nitrogen runoff into the local waters that 1,501,587 people create from lawn care and cesspools/septic systems and cars and what-not and add to that what the farms on the east end contribute and what effect this has on fish population in the local waters.

      Here are several links:
      http://suffolktimes.timesreview.com/2016/02/65682/dec-fish-kills-may-continue-to-be-the-norm/
      http://www.newsday.com/long-island/suffolk/riverhead-eyes-plan-to-prevent-another-large-menhaden-die-off-1.11741424
      http://suffolktimes.timesreview.com/2016/05/67780/underwater-video-points-to-peconic-fish-kill-on-the-horizon/

      Scroll back through the comments to find other links that various people posted about fish and the local waters.

      You can’t compare George’s fishing to that of other male osprey viewed on other webcams in other locales.

    69. CarolV July 13, 2016 at 3:52 pm - Reply

      Well…that’s big enough to see thru the fog !!! Gracie did some mantling behavior…has she been doing that? I hadn’t seen it this year.

      • CarolV July 13, 2016 at 4:01 pm - Reply

        Trey first up to the fish plate. Hurry before the dragons awake…Gracie got over the mantling quickly when George just stood by calmly.
        I only had a quick scroll thru earlier. It looked like fish came in regularly. I’ll see count, I’m sure, when comments fill in.

        • CarolV July 13, 2016 at 6:48 pm - Reply

          Not that she was grabby, but it looks like George was going overboard!

    70. Karen July 13, 2016 at 3:51 pm - Reply

      Nice work George to bring back a nice size fish for baby… His siblings are hogs and mean too…. :))

    71. margaret July 13, 2016 at 3:46 pm - Reply

      George brings in a huge fish @3:45

    72. Dorothy July 13, 2016 at 3:46 pm - Reply

      I hope #1-2 hold on tight while they are wingercising or the wind will just pick them up for a surprise fledge.

    73. Karen DeLong July 13, 2016 at 3:37 pm - Reply

      Totally agree with Donna and #3……. That little one has to be a girl. She mimics Mommy exactly. Doesn’t matter if it’s just osprey noise or when Dad brings in the goodies.

    74. Sylvia July 13, 2016 at 3:26 pm - Reply

      Gads….meanies bonked l’l one during approximately 3 pm fish and the two biggies just gobbled everything but the tail, that l’l one snatched and gulped down. This child needs a lot more food today – or he is going to sadly fail. Please dad, another fish!

    75. margaret July 13, 2016 at 3:11 pm - Reply

      Boy oh boy does that biggie chick eat so aggressively.. He/she practically rips Gracie’s beak off when receiving the food. He actually has a nasty look to him.

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