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An Intro to OspreyZone
The Story of DDT
Osprey Rescue
2020 Clips
Bald Eagles Visit Nest
Ospreyzone Highlights: May 21-29, 2020
OspreyZone Highlights: May 15-20, 2020 - The Intruder
OspreyZone Highlights: May 7th-14th, 2020
OspreyZone Highlights: April 15-21, 2020
OspreyZone Yankee
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.
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
Breakfast is coming
5-18-17 Emily as usually nice lil movie flick on breakfast, I am so glad you are back and able to post more now. The babies hopefully will be hatching around June the first week or so .
I can not wait. I missed you and look forward to some of your creative postings. Yeah most of the Osprey Family is back, going to have to take a look at my list and see who I am missing.
ps can you help Mike out with his 3d question if so please post but not as reply he tends to just look at most recent comments. 🙂
Take care HUGS
Dear RJ, I’m still busy these days, but I hope to have more time soon because I love to hang out here with you guys xo
I’m glad Betsy answered Mike’s question.
<3
1st pic of Intruder had wrong Year sorry here is pic w correct year! I need another cup of coffee sorry everyone. 🙁 UGGGGG
Rjoneal – I don’t think so…am hopeful it is one of our babies. There is something about the profile that resembles George….it is definitely a young bird – but it may be wishful thinking
I think we’ve got ourselves a nosy neighbor. Later in the seasons past I have seen more than just our brood flying over the near by field together. They may all be well acquainted.
Look at pics of Intruder from last season and this….
6:21:33- The neighbors fly thru and one lands briefly on the dangling “bacon” board, sending it downward….
Earlier- Breakfish arrives-
“Yes, dear, still 3- Gotta go while food still cool- thanks, sweetie!”
” AAHHHHHHH- don’t we love the way babies smell?” George appreciating his kids……………….hehe
5-18-17 Carol good pic I will keep this an add it to our library of birds so at the end of the year like always I can make a collage of all the birdie friends from this Season.
Keep on taking your pics and posting weather report along with my favorite part to read the comical day to day events.
bye 🙂
TOP O’ THE MORNIN’ TO YA!!! Feeling like an O’Sprey today!
Gonna be a glorious spring day”’mid to high 70s-mostly sunny, a few clouds.60s overnight with a repeat tomorrow—cooling overnight Friday but no rain showing til Monday. Subject to change @ Mom Nature’s whim, of course…..but we’ll look forward to a great few days as the G’s go ’bout their bizness
………………………………………………………………………….HAGD, EVERYONE!
5-18-17 TOP-O’ THE AFTERNOON TO YOU, love the Irish thanks for the laugh.
At about 5 PM there was a big bang while poor Gracie was on the nest
https://youtu.be/57ksNKfQ9Ck
Poor Gracie, her wings went almost straight out!!
An intruder again tried to land on the nest
Dinner for Gracie (2017-05-17, 19:02pm)
5-18-17 Ems tks for the dinner pic.
Around 1:30, I saw utility trucks working on the osprey nest @ Bubbles Falls ( south service road on Sunrise Highway ). The nest is located precariously close to electrical lines.
5-18-17 Trinity I hope they are re-locating the nest to safer place. How great that is so many people are now aware of our ospreys and are trying to make things better and safer for everybody. Keep us posted. HUGS
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
Solar & Eclipse are my favorites
9-1-17 Pattye Thanks for voting I have added to the list.
Do we know the sexes? How about Aretha & Franklin?
9-3-17 Reply- Sue, sorry your choices you gave were not one of the Top 3 choices to pick from. At first we had any name could be submitted but then we had to narrow it down to the Top 3 Names and everyone was told to vote only from the Our Top 3 Names and FB top 3 names. Maybe next year you can join in.
As far as the sex you can only find out for sure by blood work, however we know the female is larger then the male and there are other features we have talked about.
Thank you for posting
Love Our Osprey Family & Followers
Hi Shelli this is our picture for the Baby Naming …
Love it!! You did a great job ❤️
Wonderful picture!
9-3-17 tks Helen 🙂
Just got back from trip…see now it is really down to 2 sets of names..change my vote from Breeze n Spirit…to Solar n Eclipes
9-2-17 Reply- June C I have changed your name choice to Solar & Eclipse, thank you for joining in.
C9nfused, do we have to submit a vot each time the list narrows? Solar & Eclipse
9-3-17 Reply- Cathy R No, you only needed to vote again if you wanted to change your vote. I show you on the list for Solar & Eclipse and that is were your vote is being counted.
Thanks for joining in.
9-24-17 Paul, Tommy, & Aidan say Goodnight Gracie… You survived another year with us Crazy Osprey Followers. Thank you again for another successful year.
9-29-17 I want to be the first to say THANK YOU PAUL HENRY for giving us Aidan, Shelli and now Nita. You have made another big upgrade in the Osprey Zone Site and you did it all for us. Just giving us 3 years in a row has been amazing. Please continue to keep our Family going by keeping the Live Cam up. You know if you need anything for this to continue just ask and we will all do our part. Thank you for giving your business TRS to sponsor our Osprey Family.
Love Our Osprey Zone Family & Followers!
Thank you to everyone for this wonderful experience…the site administrators/owners and frequent posters for another great season with our fine feathered family. I look forward to being on Osprey watch with everyone in the 2018 season!!!!!
Hello everyone! Please welcome our new admin Nita. We have worked together for 3 years and she is amazing. Her love for osprey and all creatures, shows everyday through her hard work & dedication. I am blessed to know her! 💗
Together we will make this chat rock n roll! Lol
Reply- Welcome Nita! Love Shelli’s happy spirit and just know that our Osprey Family looks forward to sharing all this wonderful site has with you! We have incredible photographers, happy puter experts and a lot of Osprey love to share! xoxoxo
Hi and thank you Patty =) I’m happy to be on board with all of you!
I’ve been watching them for a while and just love them!
Hi, Nita…..Good to see you here, too!
Hi Carol, thank you so much! Happy to be on board ❤︎
Aw thank you Shelli, hello everyone! I’m delighted to be here!
I’ve been a fan of OZ for several years ❤︎
Welcome Nita! I’m still learning. I love all birds, but the osprey are fascinating to watch. This Cam is beautiful – the views are perfect and love all the posts and pictures!
Thank you Robin, I’m happy to be here =) This is a great place to learn and we’ve all had to start somewhere =) Please feel free to ask questions too!
Just a fun statistic and a curiosity thought.
Who exactly lives here in either Nassau County or Suffolk County.
I know June C. does, so does Carol, Martin, Peggy Martinsen,(Peggy does not post – she just return from an African Safari, taken 900 photos of the most interesting birds and animals) Ann Horn, Margaret and WHO ELSE. I am here..How lucky we are. Darlink Ranay is so far alway. She would surely be eager to join us. Now good night all of you. Meet THEM in your dreams. Rodee H.
I live in Suffolk County…
FOR GRACEY ~~~~~~~~~~
fast response – THANKS.
So what do you think about a gathering and what days are good for you? Any other thoughts? Rodee H.
Rodee, Any day after October 10th, after the Hamptons Film Festival…I’m in Sag Harbor…Where are you? thanks, Gracey
hello Rodee,
I have just read that you’re in Shelter Island. Want to come see a film or two on Sunday Oct. 8th? ..one named Jane, about Jane Goodall @ 2:00PM and the other named
The Last Pig, about a pig farmer who through consciousness becomes a Vegan @ 6:00PM, followed by a panel discussion with the film-makers. Both are Documentaries.
We could grab some food between films. Hope you’re feeling better, Gracey PS: any one else near to Easthampton NY??
FOR GRACEY…..
Must be a misunderstanding. I am in Ronkonkoma (the armpits of the world).
Films sound real good. I work 41 hours a week and Sunday is my long day. Thank you for that lovely idea.
But meet we all must some day. We all don’t live THAT far apart from one another. Lets see whats going to happen.
If you ever near my place, I would love to have you stop by. Eat 59 on the Expressway. Details can be worked out later.
Enjoy your week-end. Rodee
Rodee, yes I misunderstood…it is Helen who lives in Shelter Island…Ronkonkoma is not the armpit of the nation….New Jersey is….lol
What sort of work do you do? Gracey
FOR GRACEY ……
So where then do you live??????????
I take care of an 85 year old “Mr. Bill” who has beginning Alzheimer, now in my 3rd year. Tonight, he was a handful. Good days, bad days. I roll with the punches.
Family needs me and I NEED THEM to pay my rent. Rodee H.
hello Rodee, I live in Sag Harbor full-time now, after coming out only on weekends for 30 years from NYC…Your job is admirable but very difficult. If you want, let me know when you have time to meet somewhere. I am mostly free at any time. How are you feeling? Gracey
FOR GRACEY
Thanks, Gracey …. its good to know where our own “nests” are so a meeting would be easier to figure out. Maybe Nita and Shelli could join. (I am dreaming).
Lets wait and see if anyone else “will bite”.
I was so saddened by the loss of Bob B. 3 tagged birds. So maybe it is better ours are not tagged and leave us only with a question mark, while waiting their return.
Isn’t it amazing how these birds effect us? I just found out in german they are called “SEEADLER”. I grew up there and never heard of them.
Solar and Eclipse were very well chosen names. High and mighty. Wishing you God’s speed under His wings. Rodee H.
I live on the South Fork of Long Island in Suffolk County. Been following Osprey Zone for 3 years.
For Gracey –
I also live in Sag Harbor. Full time for 5 years now. Did the weekend thing from Oceanside in Nassau County for 15 years.
Welcome Nita…Glade to have you on board…Next season should be the best yet…best of luck to you both..
Hi June, thank you, I’m thrilled to be here =) Looking forward to next season too ❤︎
929-17 Hi Nita I know you have been part of the Osprey Zone Family as a Follower for awhile now but I am glad you have taken a leap a faith and joined Shelli. The 2 of you ladies have worked together for long time and you ladies are such a great asset to Osprey Zone Site. I know the 2 of you have many jobs and take care of so many issues I am just glad that Aidan, poor Aidan finally has some help. Aidan needs to take a well deserved vacation from us Crazy Osprey Followers. I can not wait till next Season how smooth things will run hopefully now that Paul has added 2 more people who have excellent, professional, experienced to help Aidan.
Trust me thought lady we like to chat all winter long so there is no break here. I know several of us like post all the pictures that we did not get a chance to post during the season.
So keep your fingers ready we are all just going to keep on trucking on this site.
Once again even though you were part of the family now you are in and love that you have devoted yourself to the site.
Thank you Nita and Shelli 🙂
Thank you so much for the warm welcome Rjoneal❤︎ and you’re welcome! I’m happy to come on board with Shelli and all of you! I look forward to keeping the comments uploaded here and to give our hosts a break too =) I’m glad to be a part of the Crazy Osprey Lovers group lol
I welcome our admins, too. But, although the little ones have flown the coop I thought they wouldn’t mind my posting a question to you as to how your recovery from Irma is going? Rooting that you are getting back to normal. I almost feel guilty for having dodged the bullet on LBK. There is still plenty of clean up going on but no serious complaints from most although not all. Yours, Bob
Thank you for the welcome Bob!
5-17-17 look at this…..
Hello everyone. Does anyone know the width and depth of G&G’s nest?
Thanks
4pm BST
I think I have mentioned this before, but the intruders this year could very well be either Ronnie or Sandy. This would be their year to fly back north to their birth area. I read that they do, indeed, return to the area of the nest they were hatched in. Maybe we will spot one of our original “babies” all grown up.
It is a nice thought….there are quite a few nests around there..but I like your thinking…their feathers would be completely different as adults..I think we all agreed in 2015 one was female.
Who knows….
5-17-17 Beautiful morning 5:30 AM Gracie on 3 eggs, enjoy!
Rjoneal: Nice picture!! Now, if only I could teach you how to get screenshots without the printing across the top of the picture itself!! 🙂 🙂
5-17-17 Betsy, I do not take screen shots 1st of all I use a program. 2nd I leave the printing so I do not have to add the logo. 3rd Thank you for saying nice picture.
Your killing me Betsy pick on someone else lol.
Rjoneal: BUT, the © and sponsorship info is on the BOTTOM frame (along with the date and time), not interfering at all with the picture itself!! Well, I guess if you like printing splashed across the picture, then that’t what you like!! Personally, I like a clean picture!!
Honestly who cares about where the printing is or the time. Everyone enjoys the pictures
I truly love all pictures..who really care where the c is….
Personally, I like the info at the top of the picture. 🙂 Blends better than when its at the bottom.
5-18-17 Reply- Leanne -Thanks I appreciate your comment and think that not everyone should play follower the leader (boring) we should be creative the way we see fit. By everyone being different this is what makes Osprey Zone fun and gives us a variety of images or videos and info on our Osprey Family.
Big Osprey Hug to you.
PS I like your pictures too. 🙂
Good Morning Hump Day 5-17-17 🙂
Awesome Picture!!!!!
5-18-17 thank you Margaret Have a good day 🙂
Hello Group
As I was scrolling through the comments I came upon a post and a photo of a Female Osprey Intruder and there was some discussion in the identity of this Interloper. It struck me strange as I was just reading about a similar intrusion on a Osprey Nest at the Rutland Osprey Project in the United Kingdom but with an unusual twist to the story.
We have all become somewhat of pseudo experts on the study of Ospreys. We all know from our studies that Osprey Chicks may possibly come to the nest where they were born for a visit with Mom and Dad just to say hello and a quick meal of sorts or maybe to start a Family of their own.
The Rutland Osprey Project tags all of the Osprey Chicks born to their resident Oprey Parents Maya and “33”. Well Lo and Behold not One but Two of there Osprey Fledglings returned to the nest of their birth for a visit, though brief, as they were shooed away from the nest as Mom was incubating at the time, we all know how protective Mom is of her Brood. Bye they were there long enough to be ID’ed as a fledglings from 2 and 3 years ago.
Now, if any of you Ospreyphiles who are still with me and have not fallen asleep I’ll come to the point of my story which I keep forgetting myself.
So could this mysterious Intuder possibly have been Ronnie or Sandy from Season One. So I know that there are a few of you Die Hard Ospreyphiles who go back two years and positively identify if it was Sandy or Ronnie coming back to pay Mom and Dad a visit. There are some that know Ronnie and Sandy better than your own Children. So Betsy and Carol and the Others dive into your secret stash of Archival Videos and Photos and see if it’s true or not
Thank God That’s Over
Mike
Michael G. Martin: Ronnie and Sandy would look extremely different as adults from what they looked like as juveniles, so without them being tagged, there would be no definitive way to positively ID them! 🙂
Lol your last comment, Mike! Anyway, VERY interesting about the Rutland offspring returning to their nest.
Too bad there’s no way to know for sure, but how amazing would that be if it was either Ronnie or Sandy!
Thank you!
I have been saying that for a long time Michael Martin. This is the year that Ronnie and Sandy would be returning and I believe they are around.
I’m so glad you mentioned it!!
I have thought that many times. I guess we will never know…..
NANCY;re:trash-I think the simple answer is- because it is available! I read they will bring odd things to the nest like plastic possibly because it can be a good insulator and absorb warmth. Also, may be a learned behavior- Gracie’s parent(s) were probably collectors and her offspring will probably be the same.
BETSY–Thanks for the tip on printing- as usual, I did things arse backwards and managed to print, then found the way you mentioned….will try next time…
TUCKER…I do see a slipper shell(THAT one I remember but not jingle shell) but there is still another one which may be whitened scallop. Then there is still another one in my head that I’ve tried to track down with no luck.
RJONEAL-thanks for keeping everyone informed….ya know we luv ya!
JUNE C: Also wanted to say TY for comp. I haven’t attempted videos and sometimes I see a little storyline. I sometimes think it might annoy some people when I do these strings but…..also. I posted under your comment but it was a bit far down–re: hardwood floors: babypoop easier to clean off wood……….the fam to be starring in a new SWIFTER commercial coming out next fall…jk…teehee…………..
Thanks to all who take the time to check out our postings……we’ve gotten off to good start this year with a friendly group…returnees and new…looking forward to the new feathery arrivals in a few weeks….gonna try not to be so addicted this year,( she says, probably lying to herself), Looking forward to a warm week of sun and light wind- we’ll see……………..
It’s Tuesday night about 8:30- Do You Know Where Your Children Are?
……………………Gracie does a bed check………………………………..
CarolV: Great caption, great pic!!
CarolV: You’re welcome!
Dear Rodee: My thoughts and prayers are with you, and I hope you continue to do well with the chemo and have a good outcome..
Is it possible that the “intruder” is one of the hatchlings from the year before last?
Hi Everyone, Suzie here. This is my third year watching, I don’t post much but usually check in everyday. Did anyone happen to see who lost the feather?
5-16 Reply- Suzie Honeycutt looks like a female feather by the pattern and colors to me it even might be a primary feather at that.
I would have to say it is Gracie’s even though I did not see it come out, some of our viewers may have.
I have several websites with info below. Picture of Gracie pecking at feather that keeps blowing up and down from the wind.
Unlike many migratory birds, ospreys don’t molt all of their feathers together, they rather molt a few feathers at a time, thereby remaining capable of flight, and thus hunting, all of the year. The molting process stops prior to migration, and in males during the breeding season, since during that period, they have to hunt for their mates as well as their young which demands greater then normal flight efficiency. http://individual.utoronto.ca/ali_naqvi/osprey.htm
Osprey Info Home Page- Home Page is https://birdsna.org/Species-Account/bna/species/osprey/introduction
Detailed Description – https://birdsna.org/Species-Account/bna/species/osprey/appearance
Ospreys have 10 full-length primaries, 18-19 secondaries (including 3 tertials), and 12 rectrices; Ospreys are diastataxic (see Bostwick and Brady 2002 ) indicating that a secondary has been lost evolutionarily between what we now term s4 and s5. Among primaries, p8 (usually) longest; outer web of p10 narrow; outer webs emarginated on p7–p9, and less so on p6; inner webs deeply notched on p8–p10 and less so on p7. Geographic variation in appearance slight to moderate. The following molt and plumage descriptions pertain to the North American breeding subspecies P. h. carolinensis; see Systematics: Geographic Variation for appearance variation in three other recognized subspecies in the Caribbean and Eurasia. No geographic or sex-specific variation in molt strategies reported within North America, although variation in average timing and extent of molt occurs with latitude of overwintering location, due to variable environmental and migratory constraints and day-length regimes (see below).
Info from Dennis Puleston Osprey Cam Message Board
Nature takes care of everything!
1 Wing and tail feathers are usually replaced in late summer. They are lost and replaced, a pair or two at a time, usually one from each side. It is very difficult flying if the wings and tail do not remain balanced. Some birds have developed a finely tuned molting pattern and are able to molt while nesting. These birds, Ospreys for example, require male and female co-operation. While the female incubates and molts, the male brings home the food. By the time the young leave the nest, mother has a new set of feathers. The male osprey follows the more conventional molt after nesting is completed.
2. Immature bird: (osprey) Similar to adults but slightly buff color outlining all dark feathers. Barring on tail feathers more exaggerated than adult. Keeps juvenile plumage for about two years but takes five years for complete molt
There is so much on molting…..the effect it has on all kinds of birds….particularly birds who use the water for catching their food, etc.
In searching info about molt I came across the following which doesn’t discuss molt, but is interesting with photos regarding a young osprey who suffered injury to her feathers. See…
http://www.owsem.org/album05/09232005/0923images.html
Regarding whether they change…? I would think the “root” has the color, and the replacement feather picks up on that color, hence the markings remain the same….This is just my explanation, not scientific at all. I am still looking for any reference to that question!
MOLTS AND PLUMAGE
Molt patterns of migratory populations breeding in northern latitudes described by Bent (1937), Witherby et al. (1939), Edelstam (1969), Cramp and Simmons (1980), Prevost (1983a), and Henny (1988a), with primary molt particularly well described. Pri-maries replaced in successive overlapping waves, each beginning with P1 and progressing out to P10, with number of feathers separating successive waves fewer in adults than in immatures. Without this pattern of molt (often called Staffelmauser), Ospreys would require 1 yr of interrupted molt to renew all primaries given the same growth rates. Staffelmauser allows all primaries to be renewed annually (maintaining optimal aerodynamic capabilities of wing) in this and many other large bird species that are heavily dependent on soaring flight for survival. Primary molt in southern and/or nonmigratory populations may differ from above (Henny 1988a) and requires further study. Following descriptions apply to P. h. carolinensis. Plumage descriptions utilize popular color names familiar to most readers. Color numbers (given in parentheses) represent closest color match from Smithe 1975�1981.
Suzie Honeycutt: Hi Suzie. It was Gracie
You can see the missing feather
5-17-17 Great picture Betsy!
Rjoneal: Thank you!
i see missing feather..i SWEAR i saw someone fly in with one…sorry about misinformation ..
June c: Maybe one of them did fly in at another time with a feather!! 🙂
5-17-17 Betsy together with are pics we have the whole story.of the missing feather,how it got there and who it belonged too. 🙂
Hi….It was brought into bowl..
Question:
Was the nest cleaned – thrown away from last year? It is very large compared to some other osprey nests. If they began from ’empty’, then they really worked hard and fast to get this one built!
5-16-17 Reply- Bonnie Sudnick, No the nest was not cleaned out. The only reason it was cleaned out before was because they lowered the platform right after Season 1 with Ronnie and Sandy who needed to be rescued from the entangled fishing line. With the platform being so high up this presented a lot of issues during the rescue. Plus Paul and Tommy may have other reason that it needed to be done. Paul mentioned that he did do some research on cleaning out the nest over the winter but decided that it was not necessary and he has no plans on doing that. Some nest are cleaned and some they leave up to mother nature.
You can look back some pages and you will see I took pics of the nest before and after the 1st snow and their are several of us who posted right before the camera went down.
Dearest Rodee, I am so sorry that you are sick, but happy to read that you had a good session of chemo. I have also had cancer and am very lucky to be a survivor. In 3 1/2 years I will be cancer free. I pray that the same will be true for you. We are so lucky to have people that care about us. Remember that God is always with us. We are his children and he loves us so much. He will be there for you every step of the way. Somedays it is hard to be strong, but I sense that you are very strong. Don’t give up. You are in everyone’s prays. God bless you.
Sorry to have misspelled your name Rodee – but it is the thoughts and wishes of all of us that is the important thing. Helen
Hi all…OZ has many followers and keeps growing..may I advise you to get a gravatar…It is easy to do. This prevents anyone else posting a comment under ur name.
Set up a “worldpress.com” account. They will ask you for email address, username, make a password. Then pic a picture u like and link it. Your pic will show up every time u post.
Look at you JuneC with the OZ advice
5-15-17 Our Stud Muffin flying in to take over egg sitting while Gracie takes a break.
GinaM are you still checking… in and if you are here is pic for you.
wings and fathers are the best shots and the tender moments, always
5-16-17 Reply June C Thanks 🙂
Rjoneal: This is George flying in on the 14th NOT the 15th!!
oops got it.
Hi there! I am watching everyday, but don’t always read the comments, what a treat to see this from you. You know I love our Studmuffin!
Good Morning, thanks to June C who let me know we had a birdie friend visit Gracie yesterday I was able to get these pics.
Thanks Rjoneal for posting..it was a split second when I saw visitor..my pics not clear.. Thank You again
Thanks for that one! Nice team work catching that one- not a bird I get to
see very often!
Here’s more if you want to add to your collection!! 🙂
Coming in for a landing
Pecrched
Flying away
5-17-17 Carol I think it is the first time we had warbler visit since the George and Gracie nest started. It was good team work,glad you liked it. 🙂
Rhodee –
There are so many good wishes coming your way, it has to help. Keep fighting – Helen
Gracie seems to dive-bomb off the nest sometimes!!
Athlete Gracie!
Trying out for the O-sprey-LYMPICS !!!
Good shots, Ms. R…………….
CarolV: Thank you!
Nice picture…
June c: Thanks!
George lands on Gracie
Now, see! When Gracie came in the other day with a stick with dangling weeds and grasses, in windy conditions, she did acrobatics to miss him!!!! What up George? Do you do it on purpose just to be funny!
As Gracie moves to sit on the eggs, George flies off
George landing on nest in a cascade of feathers
Gracie had an unwelcome visitor today!! I wonder if this was the same female that landed on the nest the other night!
Looking at her breast fathers I think it is…
I kinda think so too….just wants a pal…barkin’ up the wrong osprey, I’m guessing!
Looks a great deal like her
5-16-17 Reply- Betsy I do think it might be the same one, look at the black beaded necklace not easy to match but close and in general I know the camera makes the birds look larger but this bird does still seem quit large like our nighttime intruder female. Guess we will never know. 🙂
Hello!! Question for the experts –
When will the eggs begin to hatch?
I am no expert but my guess for egg 1 will be June 4th..
make that June 6th,,40 day from first laid
To Rodee,
Just tooooo cute, June,………….. And sentiments from all…………. Chin up, Rodee
George and Gracie
Yea they George and Gracie are back for 2017.
1) When did the video feed come up?
2) When did the osprey come back?
3) What dates did she lay the 3 eggs?
4) Anyone has the dates around when they will hatch?
birdJSviewer:
1) The video stream came back up April 21st.
2) We don’t know exactly when each returned — however, area people had reported seeing an osprey in the nest (although, whether George or Gracie or intruder wasn’t known) as early as March 30th (see comments page 57).
3) 1st egg laid on Friday, April 28th, @ 10:36:07; 2nd egg laid on Monday, May 1st, @ 07:06:24; and 3rd egg laid on Thursday, May 4th, @ 07:31:23
4) The incubation period is 38 days, on average, so the 1st chick most likely will hatch on or about June 5th. Last year, the 1st chick hatched after 39 days incubation! and chicks #2 and #3 both hatched after 38 days incubation.
Rjoneal, thanks for sharing Rodee’s email with us. That is wonderful news. I do believe in the power of prayer, and I’m they have all helped her. I will keep thinking positive thoughts for her, too, and keep her close to my heart. I’m so glad that everything went well. Rodee, if you read this, I’m so happy for you that you are doing so well. Hugs and kisses to you from me.
5-16-17 Reply- Marlene welcome, I email Rodee all messages she gets posted on Osprey Zone so she will get message.:)
RODEE- Until today I hadn’t seen that you are fighting cancer- I am a 2 time survivor of breast cancer as well as a number of other illnesses, & will be having my 30th surgery (on my worn out knee this time) in mid June. Done the radiation-chemo stuff (chemo twice) & I just wanted to say “YOU CAN DO THIS!!!” This world NEEDS good people in it, so fight with all your might & don’t give up! You are NOT alone!!!!!!!!!!!! {{{HUGS}}}
Sue..God Bless you..Wishing you the very best ..lots of positivity sent ur way….
Reply- Sue I will make sure she gets your message, have a good day!
Sue—Wishes for your speedy recovery, too…..
5-15-17 Gracie ate her piece of fish and returns to the nest to settle down on the 3 eggs, just one problem, George was really wanting to nap longer.
Rjoneal, , thank you so much for news of our Rodee, didn’t know, sending love, prayers to one of our loving öriginals”, happy that you keep in touch her through e-mails too, thanks for being the glue that keeps our Osprey Zone family together! Love you, Betsy, CarolV and all who keep us family. You GO, Rodee!!!
Oh My Heart Be Still…a beautiful wing shot and Framed..keeper for sure
5-15-17 UPDATE ON RODEE-
GOOD MORNING OSPREY FOLLOWERS,our sweet Rodee did decide to try Chemo for her stage 4 Cancer and to fight instead of just laying back for the next couple of months until it was her time. We are so glad she is going to fight this. We hope everything that she experience during this new chapter in her life will be filled with love,support,laughter, and fulfillment. It is a new life and a day to day challenge but she is strong and is going to fight like a solider she said. Below is a quick email on how her first session went to all of us.
Hello, my schweetie !!!!!!Reporting a good session. I did VERY well. The nurses keep telling me how wonderful I was reacting, no side effects. It was like being at a R&R. Comfortable, caring and kind nurses. I drank my endlessly refilled water bottle. They had a warm blanket over my feet.
At noon, I received a bowl of Italian Wedding soup, the best ever. Later came snacks.
I was so well feeling I could have gone to work, but I only came home at 6 pm. Needed no assistance to climb my stairs.
Please, share with the rest of the O-Lovers and let them know sending love and prayers DID THE JOB.I keep you up to date for the next few days.Thanks be to God and all of you. Fondly,
Rodee
Thanks for the update Ranay… Thinking of you Rodee- stay strong lady.
Margaret- I will give her your posting 🙂
Prayers and good wishes….Stay strong!!!
Its great your in contact with Rodee…Please send her all our good wishes to her……
Maybe the best moments of the day….Gracie sitting in the late sunlight, looking over her domain………….
Temp about 56, dropping a few degrees over night……….a little gusty tomorrow, mid 60s…rising temps and sun for a few days—
5/14/17 6:50 pm Hoping all our Mommas had a Happy Mother’s Day, just loved watching George taking care of our wonderful Osprey Momma Gracie. I just love seeing the maturity these two have accomplished, caring for each other and getting ready to hatch another hopefully strong Osprey family! xoxoxo
Gracie remembers there are leftovers-
gets up to find them and go………..
George drops down from perch, flies around and takes over eggbert duty….
Hi CarolV..love you consecutive shots, they tell a story. Seems this year George is going for hardwood instead of carpeting…easy maintenance..Ha
Poop scrapes off! Will be the stars of a Swifter commercial coming this fall—hehe
June c and CarolV: That’s so funny!!
Thanks Rjoneal for further clarification.! This is my 3rd season watching them…I should know them by now!!
I do recognize their voices…In fact when we went to Florida for the winter I recognized an osprey call as I was getting
into the car at a shopping center…I looked up and there was an osprey nest on a tall pole in the middle of the shopping
center…It is obviously my favorite place to shop!!
5-15-17 Reply- Terry, sorry I will make a note watching since camera was up. Being a Floridian and having all the ospreys around me and other animals it is nice here and yes there are nest on poles in a lot of shopping centers. Glad you got to experience seeing and hearing one while on your vacation or while you visited Florida. I love to watch my osprey family in my backyard especially when they land in my tree to watch for fish, then dive into the lake with such force straight down in the water then, such delicate grace while flying with the fish just positioned perfectly for flight. take care nice talking to you.
Love Our Osprey Family and Followers!
Earlier today……George feeds Gracie breakfast in bed as a MOTHERS’ DAY treat
then disposes of tailfin for himself…………..
It’s gloomy and overcast but at least it’s not raining!!!!!
Promises of a better week to come……………..we’ll see………………
So sweet to see these shots…to our note takers..I have May 1st. the first time George feed Gracie…anyone have an earlier date?
George yawning big time
5-16-17 Reply- Emily love it, thanks for taking picture HUGS
Dear RJ, I want to thank YOU for all your pics, for all your posts!
In case I don’t have the opportunity to do so tomorrow –
Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms here!! (including Gracie).
Hope you all have a wonderful day. 🙂
5-16-17 Reply- Monica to you too, and Thanks for posting to all MOMS !
Happy Mother’s Day, Gracie. I would also to like to wish everyone a Happy Mother’s Day. Enjoy
Well, it looks like that gray plastic blew away. First it blew to the corner of the nest
And from there, it looks like eventually it blew off the nest!
Who -or what- is that? Gracie doesn’t seem alarmed. Hopefully just a dark seagull- we have several varieties….
Sorry-might be George on nest- about 10:30
Earlier. Gracie was fighting the wind to nring in furniture….about 10:25ish a.m.
A few minutes later…..
Fighting the wind
oooppphf…made it- AND without hitting hubby- altho he was doubtful…………..
About 11:11am- It was George’s turn- more from that shipwreak he’s dismantling
Sorry-wrong picture-wish I could erase! Trying again for George’s add-on
Trading places — I think I like designing my own frames from scratch!! 🙂
Oops!! Just noticed I forgot the © and sponsorship info on the picture. Sorry!! I’m re-posting it
WISHING ALL THE MOM’S OUT THERE A VERY HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TOMORROW!!!!!!!!
The Shell- I think it is a Slipper Shell, aptly named it has a place to put your toes. Carol I think the Shell name that escapes you is Jingle.
Nope-never heard that one- but thanks for the effort!
Grumphfff….Maybe I should sing to make myself feel better—everyone sing along???? ” Raindrops. so many raindrops, feels like Ra-AINdrops falling in my EYE-eyes……falling in my eeyyyyyeeeesssss…………”
“Thanks–feel a little better…”
Trading places
You know I Love Wings n Feather shots..this one is great at a odd positioning of wings..
Gracie, up close and personal!! 😀
I saw her do this… tried everything u advised…my pics still not clear..glad u got this , its a keeper
Gracie has such awesome feathers. Here she’s flying off with a fish George brought.
To All Of Our Ospreyphiles
Some exciting news from across The Pond at the Rutland Osprey Project in the United Kingdom. The first of Four Chicks has just hatched. Mum and Da are Maya and 33 and the birth was captured on video.
If anyone wants to view the footage go to Ospreys.org.uk. So our first one may not be far behind
Mike
Thanks, Michael
G & G working on a comedy routine–
George brings a long, bent pine stick, poking Gracie in the process–
Gracie pushes one end one way
George pushes back from the other….was a see-saw session…..
OOPS – that’s not an egg. I now see the speckled eggs safely under the parents. How could I have doubted the birds? Wonder how the white thing got there.
Joan- that looks like a common shell here, whose name is of course lost among the junk in my brain. Kids love to collect them for moms….fairly thin and delicate; assorted colors-pastel shades of whitish, yellow, orange, pink….
Just saw it in one of Rjoneal’s pics and it looks like a bleached scallop shell, more likely
Am I seeing things or is a parent sitting on the nest with an egg off to the left? It’s 10:45 on Friday. Has this been going on long? Is it dangerous for the inhabitant of the egg? Is the egg still viable? Of course we’re concerned.
Friday a.m.-cloudy overcast- low 50s- we’ve had a nice string of pretty days but looking toward a gloomy weekend-with sun and rising temps during the week-
A brief moment to chat as places get switched. Hearing the sounds for a possible fish delivery-checking
9:32amEDT- NICE one, George-head and all-now that’s true love!!!!
5-12-17 Is George Injured or just Blood from Fish???
ok last night last delivery of fish George comes to side of nest and looks like once again looks like it could be claw marks on upper neck chest left side in this pic you can see the blood and like 4 scratch marks. Now it also could be blood from fish but the blood marks look like 4 claws so I am not sure but this am George defiantly still has traces of the blood on him . I did email Betsy but no answer so I am posting for all to see.
Now last year George did get wounded pretty bad on chest during a fight but 1 other time he had blood on him and it was just from fish. If this is an injury from fight he will be just fine the salt water will clean it and keep it from getting infected. If this is an injury it is not as bad as he had in the past.
Do not get upset it is small.
5-12-17 Good morning Osprey Zone Followers-
different…is for sure a keeper….
Excited Gracie eyeing fish dinner—-
In Your Face, People!
New Followers and Terry-
I would like to add also notice my pic below of Gracie some of us say on her head sometimes like this pic it looks like Gracie has a Heart with her black feathers looking at the top of her head or a Tulip flower. That was one of the first things I noticed years ago then of course all the feathers and markings not to mention you will get to know Gracie’s calls and alarm it is so different than Georges. Enjoy our Osprey Family
I just can’t believe the junk they bring to the nest beside the natural stuff:… some kind of cloth, plastic, ribbons, & what is that…a wiper ? Or maybe a door sweep ? To each his/her own I guess, but I’m sad over the debris they choose.
I was thinking the same thing. Why do Osprey’s bring trash to the nest like this?
I was wondering the same thing. Why do Ospreys bring so much junk to their nests?
June C. or any other watchers. The May 10th @ 21:02 photos shows a large intruder, and there have been reports on previous days. Does anyone think this could be one of the previous fledglings stopping to say hello?
I have been wondering the same thing. Ronnie and Sandy would be back this year for the first time, God willing.
Hi Cheryl..i thought maybe someone would have gotten back to you..I personally don’t think so..They may come back in their 2nd year, if so it would be in the general area. At age 3 they
will be ready to start a family. I think it was just a female stopping in…but how wonderful would that be if it was Sandy or Ronnie..nice thinking..you could also send Rob an email and ask,
he is very good getting back to you on questions you may have. ……rbierreg@gmail.com…Rob Biereegaard…
thank you Betsy…I got it now!!!
terry: You’re welcome! 🙂
My storage space is filling up, so either delete photos or buy more space-hmmmmmmm-deleting is a rough option!
From a year ago-
5-11-17 CarolV good pic glad you took it, I was gone for awhile today and would have missed out on this. Too cute Gracie and her electric blanket love it !
This is why Betsy and I upgraded our computers and the passport to back up pictures on is great and user friendly you cant beat it. It is called my Passport WD I love mine.
Thanks for the tip–easy being a selling point!
5-11-17 When intruder fly’s by George gets up off eggs quickly and it is kinda cute the way he always has the eggs this time all 3 in a row. Notice how he has them in a row. Gracie returns to the nest as quickly as she can when she hears George call out alarm of an intruder. What a good mommy coming to protect her eggs.
Rjoneal, love the painting! Beautiful.
5-11-17 Reply- Marlene, aww thanks, I am so glad we are all together again and can not wait for our babies to hatch. Although a little anxious about 3 I have faith in all 3 eggs since right now fishing is good and we all know George and Gracie are great providers. Take Care Love Our Osprey Family and Followers
Osprey Hug
5-11-17 Enjoy, George and Gracie together with 3 eggs in the nest
Thank you also for all the photos and same to Betsy and CarolV, just loving being here again, love watching George and Gracie maturing together to helping each other carry on their mission to carry on the magnificent Ospreys! xoxoxo
5-12-17 Reply-Patty K your are welcome and thanks for looking at all our pictures.
I hope you seen were I apologized about your name being left off the1st Egg Laid by Gracie.
If not please scroll back I sent 3 different responses to your 3 post.
Nice to know your still talking to me.
The real fun comes when all the babies are hatched so much drama and anxiety but excitement and new life also. I can’t wait To see those little Bob and heads in the nest. And George trying to get out of there before they peck at his feet.
Take care
5-11-17 Good morning this picture is for June C she has been feeling a little under the weather and she loves the pictures when George presses up against Gracie or the babies.
You have the best medicine…Love Love the shot…Thank You