Attention: due to the lack of visibility on the live stream, we are currently defaulting to a playlist of old videos and highlights. You can still go to the live view by clicking the button below.
OspreyZone Live Stream
•LIVE
OspreyZone Playlist
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
Tip: If the nest is empty, use the red scroll bar to rewind the stream up to 12 hours
Please be advised that nature can be brutal – viewer discretion is advised.
Best viewed with Google Chrome.
Ospreyzone.com copyright © 2016 – 2020 Tax Reduction Services. All rights reserved.
Special Thanks to Tommy and Christina: George & Gracie’s Landlords
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
Will some one clean up the garbage in the nest after they migrate?
George still nestorating- nice ‘weed, dude………….
Uno finds the leftover fish……
Takes it for a walk..uh, fly
Waning Sturgeon Moon–
FORECAST—More of the same good weather-just in 70s now- low humidity, light breeze. High 70s, low 80s today, sunny, occasional clouds
George in to do some nestorations……….
Here come the kids- Trey says..”I got your back, Dad!”
Gracie brought a fish to the nest at 6:14 pm which chick #3 grabbed and, then, there were a couple of comedic episodes.
https://youtu.be/FRulN1JYv1o
First time “trip”
.
Second “trip”
Looks a little like a bloody chainsaw!!!! What’s our kid been up to????
CarolV: 😀 That was the “Sheetrock” George had brought in!!
lol what is happening? Is #3 dragging all of the junk/decor out with the fish each lift off? Was that a corn husk and a piece of cardboard? I can imagine what Gracie is thinking now “this is why we can’t have nice things”
Redkayak: It looked like a corn husk!! 😀 That’s so funny about Gracie thinking “this is why we can’t have nice things” 😀
Great video Betsy, thanks for the laugh.
You’re welcome Marilyn.
Did you mean “AM?”
Dorothy: It was from the evening on the 24th that I posted in the morning of the 25th! If it was the morning the sunlight would be coming from the opposite direction!!
Betsy – as always, great video! Was that a piece of cardboard stuck to the fish? LOL!!
Hello all – So, what else has been going on?! I haven’t watched in a couple of days and it seems like forever!
8-24-16 bb3 flys in nest love the way the wind is blowing feathers!
you know my love..feathers and wing shot..you got both!
8-26-16 Reply June C – thanks love the feathers and wings too!
Think we need bunk beds…seem to be having trouble fitting everyone upstairs! And I think I saw fish leftover in nest…..a crazy night!
I am a little concerned about Dos…I didn’t see where anyone SIGHTED him, but he is so independent, I can imagine him hanging around without putting in an actual appearance. I hope he shows before he goes!
8-25-16 reply- CarolV I agree need some bunk beds for sure not enough room, someone is either off to the trees or will stay in nest.
4:31pm- Looks like George, with more blood on his chest than fish in his foot….Uno got that.
5:46pm- George again; Uno again; good sized fish
Gracie’s delivery……@5:14pm
Was 6:14pmEDT- can’t subtract or lost a time zone [ ;+}
like the neck extension….
Right? like she couldn’t wait to get eyeball to….well, non-eyeball with that fish!
june c: That’s funny — like a giraffe!! 😀
I love the way the nest looks right now. I would post a photo but mine don’t upload. There is a fish on the left, ignored. Baby#3 is eating on the right and between bites, she makes the same cries she makes when Gracie feeds her. 🙂
Awww. Look how BIG they’ve gotten !! So grown up yet so much still to learn ! Will they migrate back here next year ? Will they try to visit this nest ? Was one of the “intruders” this year one of LAST YEAR’s babies maybe ??
In general. osprey spend about 18 months or more wherever they migrate-i.e.-South American or the Caribbean Islands. They would be at least 2 years old before they return to the general area of their nest, but not necessarily that exact area. So it’s unlikely that the intruders were Ronnie or Sandy from last season.
Gracie brought a fish to the nest at 6:32 pm. No one was there so she patiently waited. At 6:37 pm chick #1 acme storming in and grabbed the fish. After eating a few bites, the chick flew off with the fish at 6:42 pm, only to circle around and land back on the nest, on the right side, and resume eating the fish. This is where the video picks up.
https://youtu.be/vERqkosQrcU
Talk about empty nest syndrome! I just rewound the last four hours quickly and I have not seen ANY parent or child. I guess we will have to get used to this soon. Wonder where they all are? I do believe they are eating well, because no one seems famished. And, I used to think that #3 was like Sandy last year, who never left the nest. But, I take it back. He/she likes to explore. No comparison..
I think Uno is the “baby” this year! Big, bad “bully” has become Mama’s kid! Much more dependent than Trey, even tho she can feed herself!
I totally agree. She is always around to let Mommy feed her. Although I have to admit that she brings in BIG fish when she does hunt.
They look like whales compared to Littlebit’s!
Still trying to figure out if #2 “My Ray Of Sunshine” has left, not 100% sure he is gone..its been getting more difficult to differentiate the babes since #3 Tracey has
grown in most to all of his/her neck feathers looking soo beautiful, they all are. Going to be tough seeing them all depart starting with our gracious Gracie to our gorgeous
George…so much
LOVE for this Osprey family Always
8-24-16 reply-Renee there is a lot of research and info but as we found with our Osprey specialist some of the info out there is not correct. Different Nest and different states in different environments do different things but I can tell you with George and Gracie last year Gracie left first George will stay until the last babies ready to leave a matter of fact George wanted to leave several times but Sandy did not want to go yet he finally forced her to leave and they left together although they do separate as you read once they go to migrate.
So in our nest so far George arrived at first but Gracie leaves first. And George will not leave till the last baby has left.
There is talk that baby 2 has been missing However there are different dates among different people of when baby 2 was last seen.
I’m glad you like all the photos,videos and information along with posts and updates from everyone Osprey zone is one big family.
8-24-16 Bb flying in with the sun glare looks beautiful
Looks like a Phoenix rising from the flames! EERIE!
As I’m scrolling getting caught up after being away for a few days, I saw that picture, and thought the exact same thing!
8-26-16 Reply CarolV still trying to get caught up on comments, it is a bit EERIE that is what makes it different.
Another thing it reminded me of that Show- Micheal were John Travolta was the angel, there is a scene in the movie that it similar.
rjoneal: Awesome picture!!
8-27-16 Reply- Betsy thanks
Just a month or so ago we were so worried about the little peanut surviving… she knew how to wait her turn, she knew when to duck, and she defied the odds, growing up strong.
Last evening, she proved just how strong the baby of the family is with a pretty good sized fish catch
here is the photo – I thought I posted it above…
u did…same photo (;=}
What a beautiful osprey #3 turned out to be.She/he will make a good parent.
GinaM: The picture is in a TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) format. I converted it to JPG and am re-posting it for you!! 🙂
P.S. Nice picture composite!!
Thank you Betsy!! I was getting worried I dreamed it!
I guess my photos won’t post.
Nice team work, ladies! Good results!
GinaM: They need to be in GIF, PNG, JPG, JPEG format to show on the page. Or, people can right click on them to open image in a new tab.
That’s when using Google Chrome. In Microsoft Edge they show as the picture — but, I don’t know what’s seen using other browsers.
8-26-16 Reply- Gina I agree baby 3 is a true survivor. He/she will be remembered by me always for how strong and how much pain he did have to endure just to get a nibble sometimes and others nothing. The pain and suffering was worth it. It paid off well for baby 3 he/she might be a smaller bird but will always be brave and stronger than any big bird that might cross its path. Baby 3 is a giant in my eyes.
This is chick #3’s second ever catch!! S/he had flown to the nest at 6:58 pm so hungry s/he was picking up scraps of fish in the nest to eat, eventually flying away at 7:13 pm. At 7:26 pm, chick #3 was back with his/her catch!! So,s/he caught a fish in less time than s/he spent at the nest begging for fish and picking up scraps!! 😀
And, then, s/he took almost 30 minutes to eat the fish. These are the colors the evening sky went through.
Like your time sequence thru color! Good idea!
Trey eating……………………..
This belongs under above post @8:23pm- Trey got fish finally….sorry- tired and careless….a bad combo!
Thank you CarolV.
Thanks!! The sky was so pretty as the colors changed before Trey finished … I wanted a picture in each color!! But I don’t think people would want the same picture 7 times with just a different sky color!! 😀
easy peasy
That’s called a “teaching moment”!
Coming back from a week out-of-town, I had almost 500 osprey comments ….. hoping to find the 3 official names of the babies. I was just ready to make a serious inquiry as to WHY NOT NAMING THE BABIES, when I ran into Carol’s comment. Glad someone is bring up the long awaited “name-calling”. Could we at least have a reason why nothing is happening? We just do not understand. PLEASE, Tommy, Paul, Aiden, anyone, what’s the hang-up? Thanks for answering. RH
I have no idea what the hold up is Rodee, I have enquired too. Finally about a month ago I just starting thinking of them by the names I submitted for consideration!
I’m guessing they have things going on. Usually good about response
Now we get to worry about Tommy and Paul and Aiden…are they ok, what’s the matter. Oh boy if the Osprey aren’t enough with all their drama now we have human drama too 🙂 Whew too much!
Looks like #3 caught a nice size fish at 7:26 p.m. Hope I’m correct this time. Previous to that, Gracie brought a fish to the nest and #2 was there, waiting for it. Chick #2 ate some of it and flew away with the rest. However, as I was looking back, I really do think that #3 caught its own fish! Gracie must’ve been on the perch, making sure #3 could handle it, and she came down to the nest but #3 said “Don’t worry, I can handle it.” He/she went to the hideout corner, and I couldn’t tell if the whole fish was eaten. Then, Gracie took off to chase an intruder. Very proud of our little one. Good job, #3!!
Marlene: 😀 Yes, Marlene, this time it was chick #3 with his/her fresh-caught fish at 7:26 pm!! 😀 But, it was chick #1 who flew in and grabbed the fish that Gracie brought at 6:32 pm!! I haven’t seen chick #2 for a few days now.
FORECAST:tonight- mid 60s and clear- Wednesday- low 80s and sunny-…….this a.m., it was in the 50s out here. It felt good to me!
Looking forward to comments posting…Dos has been MIA in the time frames I’ve been able to watch.
And I’m losing my ability to ID! I’m second guessing myself, even with George and Gracie. The glare on the lens isn’t helping, but no excuses allowed!
7:27pm- Trey came in with a smallish fish, I’m guessing she caught herself?
And another one bites the dust. Nice catch for late supper.
6:47 Tre brought in it’s own dinner. Got a bit tangled with a stick but managed to free himself.Nice catch.Soon we won’t see this for another season :(.
That’s a picture of Gracie!! 😀 She brought a fish to the nest and then stood waiting for someone to show up. And, someone did … chick #1.
About 18:32- George brings in a nice fish and spends 5 mins. looking around for someone to eat it…..
Uno comes in, takes the fish, and spends 15 mins. dragging it around, in and out of the nest,
Then floats up and out…………
….minutes before mini-G comes in to complain “Where’d it go?” Trey hungry enough to try to eat what looks like a gill cover she scavenged in the nest
I believe I owe apologies to Gracie for this one……
CarolV!!: 😀 😀 😀 I’m glad you caught that!! 😀 😀 😀
4:15pmEDT- Did a quick scroll back and saw empty nest till about 10 mins. ago, when Uno flew in. Someone went over her straight to perch, so she’s taking a relaxed approach to begging. Taking lessons from Trey……….
Gnats, flies, and other bugs — are they a food source for ospreys? Do they lay eggs in the osprey nest? Just wondering…
8-24-16 reply-JP no osprey are known to eat fish only but I guess there is that 1 percent if starving might try anything.
No. Find food in scraps and maybe deposit eggs
Sorry, I meant to say the time, it was 7:33-ish.
Around 6:19, I think Gracie alone in the nest, looking out over the water, doing a lot of head bowing. Praying for safe Osprey journeys or neck stretch morning workout?
Planning her itinerary and seeing what she has left to do and pack before she leaves.
Has a whole suitcase set aside for her plastic collection…………………….
CarolV: 😀 😀 😀 😀 !!
Maybe someone could scroll back and take a look. It was hard to tell because of the sun glare, but I thought was Trey in the nest, then it looked like Dos flew in just before a fish was delivered. A “tug of war”ensued, but trey got the fish. And, please if someone could review, it looked like Trey shared breakfast and fed the other chick. I made that comment once before and felt kind of silly, but that is what it looked like. If Trey indeed was sharing/feeding the other chick, is that common?
Hi..It was George delivered the fish 7:30 ish..Gracie took fish while 3 was yelling…
Wakey..wakey!
I haven’t commented but thank the ones that have! I read 20 plus of the comments and am filled with much relief and emotion. I thank you people for loving our beloved and most awesome of birds the “Osprey” from the respect they earn one has no choice in being a big fan especially spending time inside ones nest and having a deep love and bond to them. My local Silver Lake , Washington State Osprey are to me, family. With all my heart I wish a healthy migration with healthy food good flying and healthy return for all Osprey! I will think of you daily more then once. And will look forward to seeing post made by these birds of my feather next year too. Again thank you.
We’re all bird-brains in the Zone and you’ve got the name, too!
8-22-16 Gracie was in the nest after baby 1 left his/her fish Gracie took it over feed some to big bb and bb3 then intruder fly’s over head Gracie leaps out of nest and the fish she was eating only the tail left at this time goes flying up in the air along with other nesting materials. Couldn’t believe I got this pic of fishtail in the air.
Love it when I catch an unusual one, so I know how you feel! Really good catch!
8-24-16 reply- CarolV thanks, I know when you go to look at the pic your saying wow what a nice surprise. Its like when you use to get a prize in the cracker jacks box.
Giving away our ages with the Cracker Jack memories! Small toys, not cheesy paper junk….are there even tattoos anymore?
CarolV: I was going to say the same thing (about ages!!)!! I never got the tattoo … it was always the plastic junky stuff!! But, I didn’t care!!
Someone straight to perch…Uno joined them shortly after………………..
Only saw this one fish delivered by Gracie. But no one attacked her for it, so I guess everyone well fed this afternoon.
Uno still likes Mom to feed her. But Gracie fed herself well first !
FORECAST….Sitting here with no fan going, enjoying the cool breeze that has been blowing in=happiness 2 me! Tonight- low 60s, clear skies, low humidity. Tomorrow, sunny, high 70s.
When Gracie came in…………….no one was interested
I commented that I was worried about Gracie leaving before the kids are named. Now I’m worried about Dos going before that happens. Has become very independent! Hangin’ with his peops, I guess-or would that be peeps? Let’s go with his gang……………….
I am worried that they ALL will migrate before they get names. Don’t know what the delay is this year but I wish someone would let us all in on the well kept secret..
As if :they” don’t have a life to take care of outside our nest 🙂 Sorry to seem so pushy don’t mean to be. We are just anxious to have names.
Carol,
Did anyone else comment on Dos? Was the 19th the last time he was spotted? Wish they would hurry with the names also……..
Just saw comments about lack of Dos sightings. Still at work so not caught up on current comments. Hoping…..
Hoping they pick names for “OUR” babes soon even if they have to pull them out of a hat lol
8-22-16 Baby1 eating his/her fish caught by itself right up by the camera love this pic the wind blowing feathers just perfect.
Aidan and Paul thank you for allowing us to rewind back to early this morning once the video came back up,for those who missed early morning. I thought for sure I was going to miss taking all my morning pictures when the sunrises,those are the best pics.
Thanks again !
Just did a rewind about -3:30 One flew in to the nest with a fish the other a bit later and the third flew to the perch a while later after both parents flew off
I was so excited to see this post and think that somehow I had missed Ali (chick #2) and was mistaken in when I saw him/her last at the nest (on 8/20/2016). This is Gracie returning after going after a nearby interloper. After scouring my videos for after 3:30 pm (which is 15:30 hrs in military time) — I found the video which coordinates with this picture — which is at 13:58:02 hrs or 1:58 pm!! So much for “3:30 pm”!!
So glad that our lil one’s head/neck feathers are growing back in so nicely! Now I no longer have to worry about her feeling chilly down the road without them. It’s just wonderful how great they are all doing this year…such a pleasure to see! Heck, looks like someone they may have enjoyed seeing me too…hahaha 🙂
That’s a great shot 🙂
8/22/16, early afternoon.
Our eldest caught herself a tasty lunch, and lil one flew in soon after. Eldest > “Don’t try to look so nonchalant over there, lil one. I can tell you’re waiting for an opportunity to steal my fish, but fugetaboutit, it is mine-mine-mine…Ha!” 🙂
Perfect catch-Minding my own bizniz here…..Look away, turn away…..
Any update on baby names??
Has anyone viewed (dos) #2 lately, it seems that looking back on comments/pix the last view was on 8/19/16? Could he of left/migrated already? Thanks!
8-22-16 Reply-Renee Babies won’t leave first Gracie will be the first to leave to migrate.
Yes baby 2 was on perch for awhile then in nest today.
Rjoneal: Chick #2 was NOT in the nest yesterday (8/22)!! I didn’t see chick #2 all day yesterday (8/22), but at 7:07 pm “someone” flew to the perch who sounded like chick #2!!
P.S. I taped every coming and going yesterday (except, obviously, when video stream was down), so, if you tell me what time chick #2 was on the nest I’ll review the tapes.
Thank you for responding and while I have you here, thanks for all the pics and info you put out there for the viewing/reading. I appreciate all the time you and a couple others take to post for us viewers! …..I hadn’t seen 2 for a while, only 1 & 3 so did some research after I posted that and yes, it does say the parents will leave first (didn’t differentiate which Mom or Dad) when they feel the kids can fish for themselves. The kids leave later on their own and they all make the trip solo…it’s not easy being an Osprey!
Renee: I didn’t see chick #2 yesterday (I even commented that I hadn’t seen him/her all day), but I’m pretty sure I did see him/her the evening before (the 20th). For the few days prior to that I’d only see him/her in the evening for late dinner or (seldom) in the early morning. Tonight at around 7:07 pm “someone” landed on the perch — I couldn’t tell who it was flying in but the “voice” sounded like chick #2.
Thank you for responding and for all your pics and videos you share, they’re great!
I know what you mean by sounds like 2…he has a rapsy ‘voice’ and most of the time I only hear him nearby (perching on cam) so when I looked back the last date I saw or heard him was the 19th. Found out when I looked into their migration that the parents will leave first..thanks again!
Renee: Your welcome! We need a spotter on the ground to tell us how many chicks are on the perch!!
8-22-16 Aidan or Paul how long is the video going to be down? I wish I would have know about this ahead of time if it was at all possible not sure if it was a foreseen event. Hope everything is ok on your end. Will keep checking in hope all is ok.
Just in case here is a pic of what I am getting.
Dear Folks of any gender. My list was just an interesting observation and was not meant to imply anything negative at all. It did not include all the comments pages and its presentation column wise was awful. It was just a surprise to me but explainable in so many different ways. Thanks to all who replied and please do not find it as critical in any way as it was not meant in that vein only as a statistical note. Love y’all. Bob And now back to our great birds!
It’s fine Bob. I thought your list was interesting. And anyone who was possibly ‘offended’ really should just grow up and get a life. Thanks for the time it took you to do that!
Bob
No offense taken, but that was some effort on your part to research and index all those names.
Thank-You
Mike
I for one, took your research as an observation without any malice intended. And got the impression that it was generally accepted in that spirit. We love to hear from you. Just typing up that list looks exhausting, not to mention checking back thru all the postings! You go, guy!
I found your list interesting. That too k time and effort. I, for one, appreciated it.
Thank you everyone for your kind words and support.
Back at work today, sneaking a peek at the nest and all the pictures and comments. So wonderful all of you and I so enjoy catching up. This is a wonderful site and my heart goes out to our beloved Trey, I really hope the future is a healthy and long one for all three babies, but especially so our little one who has fought so hard to get food and grow. After watching some antics of carefully thought out survival tactics by this once tiny little trooper as food was gotten; and that memorable time a peck was delivered to Ono then Trey ducked down causing Ono to give Dos the stink eye, there will be many a moment to look back on this winter to once again have a good chuckle.
I just remember all those times I was on the edge of my seat just urging little Trey to “grab it; go around and get your food”. It was so stressful yet a sigh of relief when I could see Trey get some fish to eat. Such a brave and determined little one who is now grown.
Thank you again to everyone and especially to Tommy and Christina and all support team members for this site!
Fifty shades of gray………
Let the sun shine in………..
@2:15am–100% chance of rain on the south fork- woke me up!
Perfect form
In
Out
2/21 Tunnel of wings!!
8/21
I didn’t see chick #2 at all today, only chick #1 and chick #3.
And, George and Gracie!
Forecast: Sunday night-50-90% chance of rain before dawn- Low 70s– Monday-sunny, temps high 70s-low 80s- moderate humidity.
At 6:46, one of the parents drops off a nice size fish for #3 and takes off. Around 7:33, one of the siblings comes down from the perch, but #3 is eating it. I think the second chick was #1. Anyway, she eventually leaves the nest, as does #3. Looks like #3 left the fish tail behind. I wonder if they are all eating well, because there seems to be no fighting for fish anymore. Has anyone seen the fledglings bring their own fish to the nest? I haven’t been able to watch as much as I would like. I know #3 bought a little one a few days ago.
Scrolling back, looks like one of the family brought a tiny fish to the perch around 5:30 p.m. #3 was telling it that he/she wanted it; it was dinner time. Somehow, the fish ended up in the nest. I think the parents are afraid of talon-bite. Good idea.
Anyway, next spring will be special because Sandy and Ronnie should be around somewhere. They might even be one of the 2017 intruders!! I guess the parents won’t know their offspring.
GinaM, I totally agree with you about your George and Gracie comments. Last year, he was a little flaky. But, he figured it out and fed three hungry chicks and Gracie. Gracie, too, is a wonderful mother. She’s been doing a lot of the fishing lately, too. It seems like they just arrived here, but they will be leaving shortly. (Sniffles.)
6:46pm- this was the delivery- someone, I think, got bush-whacked for the fish- flew straight out!
Trey and the fish….
About 5:30pm- someone flew in to the perch and it looked like Trey went after their fish, even at one point, tipping tail up like she was reaching something that may have slipped and been caught at the edge. But she got her prize…small but solid.
Paul Dear,
Just learned of your wonderful webcam and project from the Copes. Sloan and I will talk about it. Sending warmest regards.
Is the “Name the Babies” contest over??
4:02pmEDT- Gracie comes in with a nice fish
Trey failed in her attempt to steal. so she hung around pestering. Here’s her dejected, look-how-cute-I-am beg. Gracie flew out-will it work?
Hi CarolV,
I saw this yesterday too and it looked to me like he was saying ” Mom, I’m Dying. Please feed me.”
So spoiled!
Definitely a drama queen-king! You can hear the teenage voice, can’t you?
3:20pm- keeping those feathers pristine while waiting to see if any fish drop by for lunch………………………………
8-27-16 Reply- CarolV I never posted my comment to you on this pic so here it is,
Love ,Love, when they are grooming especially shots like this one, you caught a very precious moment for me. They look like cats in a way when they are cleaning themselves,really focused and are so tuned into grooming.
Dear George,
As you still work so very hard on nest renovations, I know you plan on staying until it is time to escort #3 on the first leg of her journey. I don’t want you to leave either. You have grown up so much this year. You went from last year’s somewhat flaky youngster to Gorgeous George- Studmuffin Super-dad.
He’s matured so much this year and proved to everyone that he truly is a wonderful daddy. You did a great job, George.
Dear Gracie,
As I watch you sitting alone in your nest, your three beautiful babies healthy and strong, you know your job is complete for this summer. I can’t help but feel tremendous sadness thinking that your deep instincts are telling you it is almost time to leave and fly to your South American home for the winter. We have no right to ask this of you, but please stay a little longer. We all love you so and don’t want you to leave, just yet.
I totally agree with you. I will hate to see her leave.
Greetings to the Group
Has anyone noticed if any or all of the Ospreys are gaining weight and eating more in the preparations for their Winter Migration.
If any of the Ospreys aren’t eating or fishing and gaining weight, which ones are they.
I believe that at this point being so close to the start of the Migration Process, they should be packing on those Carbs and Fat reserves.
Mike
Gracie has had the luxury of consuming more, and it is noticeable. The kids are supplementing their diets with fish they catch and decreasing their demands (some days) on the parents. Because of the route they follow, osprey migrate and rest as needed on their journey south.Their southward journey is more leisurely than their race north in the spring. They follow the water/coast route, feeding as they go. The young are tested in their hunting abilities in a true fight for survival.
Don’t forget ospreytrax.com . While none of our local osprey are tagged, you can get n idea of the route they take and the perils they face thru Rob R.’s work.
for the trans Caribbean part of their journey it is non stop flying for 20-25 hours. Unless of course if they find a friendly boat or pile of flotsam to rest on. So they need to EAT!!! NOW!!! LOTS!!!
8-22-16 reply RC
We were told by osprey specialist that they mostly stay along the coast and take their time that there is not ant part that they have stay over water for long periods so food is not a problem for them. Since they are just staying along the coast line. I have ospreytrax but have not really studied it. Just wondering were you got your info from?
Long post…sorry
they do stay along the coast coming down from Maine but they have to get across the Caribbean and that is a long non stop flight. Last winter while missing the Ospreys I read two books. One is’ Flying with Fidel’ by David Gessner and I am most sure this is the one with this info. He also talks about how a Osprey can catch a fish and eat it in flight during these long flights, but that is very difficult for them to do. They have been observed doing this behavior.
But you might can find this info about a Osprey called C-2, he perished making the flight. They are not sure why he didn’t make it but his transmitter was only “drifting” with the currents. Sadly he was in sight of land when it stopped moving.
Here is a excerpt from the person that was following him…maybe using your ospreytrax. I have looked at that and it is quite interesting.
“Day 12-13 Sept 13&14th
He was on the move before 7 am and was beginning his trans Caribbean flight before 8 am. From that point on it was tropical, storm free, NON STOP, clear flying into and through the night. He arrived on the north shore of Columbia on the La Quajira Peninsual at around 9 am Sat. the 14th A 465 mile trip in 25 hours.”
It has been said on here many times that a very large percentage of migrating 1st yr Ospreys don’t make it during their migration. I think it is upwards of 60% of them don’t make it. There are many reasons. Some of them get off track and get lost and never make it to South America.. Some are shot because they want to fish in a pond where fish farmers are growing Talipia. Many have to ditch in the sea due to fatigue and once down in the sea most will not be able to fly out of it. Their feathers are not water proof like a ducks and will hold the water and they then are too heavy to lift back out. That is why they have to dive and get airborne again quickly.
I am not at home where my books are and right now I can’t remember the name of the other book I read. I know some of you will scroll back to last year and find them. These two books, for some reason, were talked about a lot on this site last year (my first year). I have not by any means read all of the comments this year, but I don’t remember too many books being mentioned. Winter is coming, gotta find something to read.
http://www.jamaicabayosprey.org/2013/09/smooth-crossing.html
This is the story of C-2….I think 2013 and it is only part of the story….this does not tell about his demise….but you can find it if you poke around some.
8-23-16 reply RC thanks for all the info I do have the book you mentioned and I have the book that I’m reading soaring with Fidel by David Gessner. I visit several osprey websites even though OZ is my home they have info and I like to compre with different environments . Living in Florida we have ospreys all around us as far as I can tell the ones that live by me do not migrate. Also they usually or can have two batches of babies The more experienced ospreys.
Yes many books have been talked about but I am still trying to get through the last one. Like you said maybe during winter although we only have 1 month of winter usually. Thanks again nice talking to you. ?
I have been living in Jacksonville fl for the past 4 yrs. found my first local Ospreys last year at Huegnot state park. It was sitting on a sign post and I drove right up to it and just stared and took pictures till he got tired of posing
Yes our birds do not migrate. Which makes me wonder, where is the cutoff? If Fl birds do migrate then do GA birds go or SC. Where is the cutoff? I’m sure some one tracking them knows the answer
Good talking with you as well. Going to look for Rachel and Steve at Audubon
I meant if FL birds do NOT migrate then where is the cutoff
9:36am- George brings in a 1/2 fish, which Uno happily takes.
Trey gives her opinions-SHOCKER!
Liberates the last bit of fish-couple of mouthfuls…
Looking at that 9:36 post, I’m having a hard time sorting body parts and I took the screenshot!
Uno and Trey at home.
I hope the kids get named before Gracie leaves………………………
7:55amEDT- Gracie comes in to take the fish George delivers…
…………then floats upward,taking it with her
8-20-16 Leanne have not seen a post in a while from you are you still watching with us?
I’m still around. 🙂
Clear enough to catch the waning almost-full moon, with the haze surrounding it.
This was the only fish delivery I saw…Trey was still working on her own fish, so Gracie had a chance to enjoy on her own.
Uno came in after a while and got fed by Mom…got to finish up the tailfin
SYLVIA- Good to hear your husband finally listening to you-yeah, we all know the routine. Now good luck getting him to do what he is supposed to! Glad the G’s were a bit of a diversion…You may need to take tips on nagging from Gracie- she usually gets what she wants. Show your hubby Gracie at her mega-decibel best and threaten him with that!
FORECAST- Well, got the rain today- way more than the shower predicted. Once again, at work, I had to wade thru a deep puddle to get to my car. This time, tho. I had to go out in the pouring rain to move it before the water went up thru the floorboards. I know not to park near this certain spot when heavy rain is predicted, but—- anyhow, storms skirted down the LI Sound, along the North Shore, for several hours. And again, no rain at my house on the South Fork….
Low 70s overnight- overcast. Sunday- possible t-storms in the a.m….sun and clouds the rest of the day-high 70s, low 80s
Saw that Trey picked up a valuable lesson- for more than an hour, even tho she wan’t eating it, Trey lugged her piece of fish around the nest, in her hot little claw–a fish in the foot is worth two in the ocean.