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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. Carol July 17, 2015 at 11:40 am - Reply

      We all seem to assume George is a poor fisherman. I had read that ospreys establish territories. Is it possible as a newcomer George is left with poorer fishing options?

      • Karen July 17, 2015 at 1:03 pm - Reply

        I just don’t know. It’s so frustrating to watch. George must realize what she wants and now even the kids are joining in the chorus. He does seem to have learned some lessons over time. He now eats his portion much more often before delivery and no longer has Gracie feed him.

    2. Cindy July 17, 2015 at 11:27 am - Reply

      Has the Mother abandoned the baby chick at Wood Hole. 10:27 central time

      • Jon July 17, 2015 at 11:38 am - Reply

        No.

      • Karen H July 17, 2015 at 11:53 am - Reply

        I saw the mom at around 10 am eastern time. But, no food. Have not seen food in 2 days. I don’t look all the time like our site however.

        • Jon July 17, 2015 at 2:27 pm - Reply

          The chick was fed twice yesterday from what i saw and fed today.

      • Tucker July 17, 2015 at 12:25 pm - Reply

        Recently,they seem to be eating mainly porgies and snappers(baby blues), early on, some bunker. Has anyone seen any other fish?

      • Jan Klinedinst July 17, 2015 at 12:30 pm - Reply

        No, I was just on site and I could see her (toe) so she is there. No food delivered to the chick while I was watching for the last hour. 11:30 – 12: 25 AM.

    3. Mitchell July 17, 2015 at 10:29 am - Reply

      I enjoyed the June 28th Highlight real. I was not around then. It was a bit edited for content but still I appreciate it. Thanks.

    4. carol July 17, 2015 at 10:04 am - Reply

      Another headless fish about 7:30EDT. Decent size, good feeding session.

    5. GinaM July 17, 2015 at 9:59 am - Reply

      I think the babies have discovered their reflection in the camera. They do a very funny head bop dance. All seems well this morning. I saw two feedings. This post was written at 9:55 AM

    6. Jan July 17, 2015 at 8:24 am - Reply

      I feel so bad for these babies. They must be hungry. I wonder if George brings any fish during the night. Has anyone seen a feeding this morning?

      • Jon July 17, 2015 at 9:59 am - Reply

        Yes they ate, not to be rude but half of the chatters on here are clueless.

        • Cindy July 17, 2015 at 10:39 am - Reply

          Clue us all in then. 🙂

          • Jon July 17, 2015 at 11:39 am - Reply

            I do.

          • Carol July 17, 2015 at 11:43 am - Reply

            I love it when someone states they;re not going to be something and then is.

    7. Carol July 17, 2015 at 8:23 am - Reply

      Always love the morning shots when the sun shines across the water…
      First fish came in about 5:45a.m.EDT. Medium size whole fish. Second meal delivery around 6:30EDT; Dad got his share this time but it was still a good size. Seemed peaceful and everyone got fed.
      The chicks are preening more. I guess they will get more or different feathers, for flight. I wonder if it itches having them popping thru?

    8. Karen H July 17, 2015 at 8:19 am - Reply

      Rjoneal. Thank you for the Osprey information. And, Karen, do you know if the Woods Hole Osprey has gotten anything to eat? I feel bad for him/her.

      • Elaine July 17, 2015 at 11:07 am - Reply

        I looked at Woods Hole, a few minutes ago, and the chick looks like he/she is depressed, not really doing anything.. The mother was briefly there. I did not see any food. What a shame for something like that to happen to the sibling.

        • Samantha July 17, 2015 at 12:27 pm - Reply

          What happened to the sibling? I would look myself, but I’m so absorbed in these Osprey that I’m concerned I may sacrifice my social/work life altogether if I get attached to another raptor family.

        • Susan July 17, 2015 at 2:25 pm - Reply

          Isn’t that the sibling who threw its sibling out of the nest?

    9. gigi July 17, 2015 at 8:02 am - Reply

      small fish at 7:30 am, friday

    10. kgerette July 17, 2015 at 7:52 am - Reply

      7:50 am…feeding.

    11. Karen H July 17, 2015 at 7:50 am - Reply

      So glad to see everyone eating. Yesterday was rough. Guess it was a bad fishing day. Don’t want to see what happened in the Woods Hole nest happen here. That would be sad. We have come so far. Wonder if the mom will be leaving soon.

    12. Lucie Pecor July 17, 2015 at 7:39 am - Reply

      While I agree it is very hard to watch what happened to that 3rd little babe. His tiny wings flapping for food. I see it this way – no one is forcing me to click on the link. I am not going to. Because I remember it well enough in my head. Too much. BUT it is the nature of things. Hard Reality to swallow.

    13. Lucie Pecor July 17, 2015 at 7:29 am - Reply

      Breakfast!! 7:29 am Eastern time

    14. Lucie Pecor July 17, 2015 at 7:26 am - Reply

      I too am hoping as she ages she will become more nurturing. She rarely covers the chicks to protect them from the elements. Have they fed this morning yet? It is 7:26 am Eastern Time- Vermont!

      • Cindy July 17, 2015 at 9:36 am - Reply

        Which one are you talking about?

      • Cindy July 17, 2015 at 9:39 am - Reply

        I’m in Alabama. Sorry forgot to tell where I was. It’s 8:39 am central time

    15. JB July 17, 2015 at 6:20 am - Reply

      HAPPY FIVE-WEEK OLD BIRTHDAY to Chick Number 1!

    16. JB July 17, 2015 at 6:00 am - Reply

      Small fish delivered approximately 4:45 AM CST, 5:45 AM EST. Grace had to take a few minutes of squeaking at George before she was able to force him out of the nest so she could feed the kids. The kids are getting more aggressive and even taking bites at the fish. It appears that Grace is presenting it to them to try and bite it, but they aren’t quite ready yet to tear off a piece.

    17. Marlene July 16, 2015 at 10:28 pm - Reply

      Those babies must be starving! It’s 10:26 p.m. and I just looked back at the last four hours, and I did not see them getting any dinner. There would never be enough food for three babies — let alone these two little ones!
      I, too, am wondering whether George is maybe a “first-time father.” It seems that Gracie does all the squawking to tell George that he needs to get food for their babies. However, he’s not listening. This is very sad. Hope tomorrow morning he finds fishing plentiful.

      • Jon July 17, 2015 at 8:24 am - Reply

        Actually they did get a fish earlier.

    18. Mitchell July 16, 2015 at 9:32 pm - Reply

      It’s interesting how the feeding has been so inconsistent. Yesterday everyone ate lovely and tonight everyone goes to bed starving.

    19. Jan July 16, 2015 at 9:03 pm - Reply

      Hi everyone…just tuned in tonight….have the babies been fed today?

    20. Patty July 16, 2015 at 8:09 pm - Reply

      8;06pm Edt, Have I missed feedings? All are screaming, please post what you have seen about the feeds. Thank you!

    21. Pat July 16, 2015 at 7:45 pm - Reply

      Gracie doesn’t sound happy that George hung out with the guys after work….lol

    22. emilie July 16, 2015 at 7:17 pm - Reply

      I cannot believe how big these two babies are and their huge wings. It’s 7:16 EST and they are out cold sleeping it looks like. beautiful evening there.

    23. Jo-Ann July 16, 2015 at 6:43 pm - Reply

      Thank you Carol for responding to a question I asked Last Week about my concern that at that feeding that baby#2 was not getting any food. Your answer put my mind at ease..I just got so caught up in watching the last feeding and reading recent comments that I burnt my dinner. Maybe I could get George to deliver a fish to my house!!

    24. Maureen July 16, 2015 at 6:39 pm - Reply

      I have seen days where George doesn’t bring in many fish during the whole day. I hear Gracie appearing to ” yell” at George. I don’t know to much about the ospreys but if it comes down to it could/would Gracie ever go out and get food for all of them herself or is that not done once she has the kids??

      • Karen July 17, 2015 at 12:58 pm - Reply

        Maureen,

        I think the instinct is to stay on the nest until the chicks are older than this, but a couple of weeks ago Audrey on the Chesapeake nest did leave and bring back a fish on a day when Tom had slacked off.

    25. Carol July 16, 2015 at 6:28 pm - Reply

      George dropped off a good size 1/2 fish about 5:30p.m. Looked like everyone had some. One chick always manages to get that last bit of tailfin and wrestles with it. One posed in front of the camera and I just noticed the baby beak is gone. Looking much more scary and efficient for fish tearing!

    26. donna weinholtz July 16, 2015 at 6:13 pm - Reply

      I looked in on the nest this afternoon and at 5:38 EST, a headless fish was delivered by George. I could not determine what kind of fish, but it was fair-sized, and the feeding continued until 6pm EST. There was no fighting and Gracie seemed to be distributing the food fairly evenly between the the two chicks. when the fish was consumed, #2 ( I think) picked up the end of the fish tail and toddled around the nest for a moment as he was stuffing it into his crop.

    27. Cathy H. July 16, 2015 at 5:48 pm - Reply

      I like how Gracie positions herself between the chicks to divvy up the food.

    28. Rjoneal July 16, 2015 at 5:48 pm - Reply

      Trouble viewing this email? Try our web version.

      Paul and whomever else signed MBTA thank you we have a victory for now see below.

      Audubon logo | Advisory
      your actions at work
      JULY 2015

      Dear Rjoneal,

      I wanted to be sure you saw the good news in this month’s Advisory. There is no doubt that the more than 59,230 messages sent by you and other committed Audubon members about attacks on the Migratory Bird Treaty Act played a pivotal role in this critical conservation victory. This is an important victory, one worth celebrating, and it wouldn’t have happened without you.

      With gratitude,
      signature
      David Yarnold, President & CEO
      National Audubon Society

      Golden Eagle | Daniel O’Donnell / Photo Awards
      An egregious amendment that would have prevented enforcement of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act has been withdrawn. (Golden Eagle photo: Daniel O’Donnell / Audubon Photography Awards)
      Good News! Migratory Bird Treaty Act is Safe for Now
      The sponsors of legislation aimed at weakening the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) appear to have backed off their destructive course.

      The change of heart followed a vigorous, hard-hitting campaign by Audubon’s Washington, DC office and a barrage of more than 59,000 messages you and other Audubon members sent protesting the proposal. It’s a dramatic turn of events and a stunning victory, and we couldn’t have done it without you. Read more →

      Brown Pelican | Stephen Kent / Photo Awards
      The settlement ensures that funding will be immediately available to address long standing environmental concerns in the Gulf of Mexico. (Photo: Stephen Kent / Audubon Phototography Awards)
      BP Agrees to Pay for Damages Caused by Gulf Oil Spill
      On July 2, in a legal resolution years in the making, BP agreed to pay $18.7 billion in restorative damages—the largest such settlement in history. The settlement ensures that the money BP will pay reaches the Gulf more quickly than it otherwise might have. Read more →

      Greater Sage-Grouse | Tom Reichner / Shutterstock.com
      Audubon partnered with other conservation groups in a 48-hour social media blitz in late June to #SaveGrouse.(Photo: Tom Reichner / Shutterstock.com)
      Unprecedented Efforts to Save Greater Sage-Grouse
      As part of a collective effort to avoid the necessity of a federal Endangered Species Act listing, earlier this summer the Department of Interior released 14 final land use plan revisions, which will guide land management for the Greater Sage-Grouse on public lands in 10 western states, encompassing 60 million acres of public land. Read more →

      Bobolink | Steve Maslowski / USFWS
      Bobolinks, neotropical migrants, winter in Brazil, Bolivia Paraguay, and Argentina. (Photo: Steve Maslowski / USFWS)
      Bipartisan Bill Introduced to Extend Neotropical Migratory Bird Program
      For nearly 15 years, the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act (NMBCA) has helped protect habitat for the hundreds of species of birds that nest in the United States and winter in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Last week, Congressmen Ron Kind (D-WI) and Rob Wittman (R-VA) introduced legislation to reauthorize funding for this vital program. Read more →

      Representative Quigley with Audubon National Board Members
      National Board Members Jim Greenwood and Leigh Altadonna thank Congressman Quigley (D-IL) with an Audubon print of the Northern Cardinal, Illinois’ state bird. (Photo: Erik Schneider / Audubon)
      Auduboners Take to the Hill for Bird-Safe Buildings and Western Rivers
      Audubon chapter leaders and staff spent a day on Capitol Hill before heading to Audubon’s National Convention and delivered two key messages to their lawmakers. One participant reviewed her experience: “I’ve never done this before, but it’s so easy and it makes me wonder why I haven’t met with my congresspeople sooner.” Read more →

      Greater Sage-Grouse in flight | Tom Koerner / USFWS Allen’s Hummingbird | Aaron Maizlish / Flickr

      We beat back a bad rider to the Defense Authorization Bill that would have interfered with sage-grouse conservation efforts. (Photo: Tom Koerner / USFWS)

      By 2080, the Allen’s Hummingbird is expected to lose 90 percent of its current breeding range, according to Audubon’s climate models. (Photo: Aaron Maizlish / Flickr)

      Your Actions at Work
      Since December, we’ve been fending off Congressional attempts to interfere with efforts to save the Greater Sage-Grouse (see related article, above). More than 20,000 people have contacted their members of Congress to oppose these misguided bills, which are often attached to other legislation. Last month, we sent an alert to people living in states where their Senators could cast a critical vote to defeat a harmful amendment to the Defense Authorization Bill—hundreds of Audubon supporters reported calling their Senators, and on June 16, we learned the amendment had been withdrawn. We’ll need to continue this effort throughout the next several months, but for now, let’s pause to celebrate last month’s big win!

      Climate Corner
      The centerpiece of our nation’s climate policy is the Clean Power Plan, EPA’s new framework for reducing carbon emissions from our nation’s power plants. This one piece of the overall Climate Action Plan will provide 63 percent of the US’s emissions reductions pledged to the international community. Without it, the US will fall short of our targets and slow the rate at which we reduce our carbon footprint. Due out in just a few weeks, the rule’s release will set in motion state planning activity which will establish how we achieve a cleaner energy future. Read more →

      News from the Flyways
      Congress introduces new legislation to restore Long Island Sound.
      Audubon

    29. Beverly July 16, 2015 at 5:44 pm - Reply

      5:43. Nice big fish and its noisy in the nest.

    30. ray July 16, 2015 at 5:43 pm - Reply

      Fish was brought in by George around 5:42pm EST. She’s feeding them now.

    31. JB July 16, 2015 at 5:33 pm - Reply

      One of the chick’s foot is caught in the plastic bag.

      🙁

    32. Jara July 16, 2015 at 5:20 pm - Reply

      For Gamma – It”s 5:17 pm in MA – Poor Gracie and chicks are beside themselves from hunger. Where oh where is George? Hope they eat soon.

    33. Gamma July 16, 2015 at 5:04 pm - Reply

      It would sure be nice when people post something that they at least state what time they are in. Not all people watching this site live in NY. It would help if we wanted to scroll back to see something. I just went back the last 4 hours and have seen no feeding. 2:03 PDT

      • JB July 16, 2015 at 5:16 pm - Reply

        Yes, that would indeed be helpful. As a note to our readers, if you see something interesting, remember you can scroll the video back up to four-hours from the current time. If you want to post what you see, then right-click the video screen and select “Get video URL at current time”. Copy that link and paste it in your comment. Others will see the video appear.

      • Becky July 16, 2015 at 5:47 pm - Reply

        George arrived with a fish at around 5:35pm!!!

      • Carol July 16, 2015 at 6:35 pm - Reply

        Good point. We forget we are not all local. Will try to remember if I post feedings.

        • Carol July 16, 2015 at 6:39 pm - Reply

          Their last feeding was 5:30p.m. EDT

      • Patty July 16, 2015 at 9:22 pm - Reply

        ok, Gamma, thought that comment post had the time zone on it. 9;16pm eastern, never saw a great meal tonight or today for the family. Did I miss a great fish from George to have them satisfied? Please post any feedings anyone saw, thank you!

    34. Rose Petejan July 16, 2015 at 4:54 pm - Reply

      I think George is too young. I hope Gracie finds a new more mature George next year/

      • Carol July 16, 2015 at 6:31 pm - Reply

        Next year George will be more mature, too. It’s a learning process and somewhere I read that it’s not unusual for first year parents to not lay eggs, let alone rear a successful chick. So these two aren’t doing so badly.

      • Rjoneal July 16, 2015 at 6:52 pm - Reply

        Rose and for the person wanting how to know the difference between Gracie and George.
        How can you distinguish between the males and females?
        As with all birds of prey, the females are often larger than the males – some females have wingspans approaching five feet, and weigh up to four pounds; males weigh in at two pounds. They have a characteristic black stripe through the eye and have charcoal and white feathers. In youth the eye is orange, in adulthood it becomes yellow. Ospreys mature after two years of age. Ospreys may nest atop manmade structures and place their large stick nests near human activities. These raptors have a high nest fidelity and return after long southerly migrations to the very nest from the previous year. Ospreys mate for life and are devoted parents. Young are full grown at six weeks and leave the nest at about eight to ten weeks of age taking their first flights. Like all raptors, osprey have a high mortality rate in the first year of life. Ospreys are migratory and travel long distances south – as far as Central and South America, where they over winter until spring. Unless George doesn’t come back next year they will mate for life.

      • victoria s. July 16, 2015 at 9:04 pm - Reply

        From what I understand,Ospreys mate for life. There will never be another George.

    35. Debbie July 16, 2015 at 4:54 pm - Reply

      Is George and Gracie a younger couple, just wondering because I would think Gracie would be a Mombrella for her kids, like most osprey
      parents do when there are No trees for shade. Poor little kids are hot. George we need you to bring in a Huge fish for supper… Otherwise
      good nest to watch….

    36. Patty July 16, 2015 at 3:31 pm - Reply

      Kiddies are hungry, thirsty! Please help, George! He came home a while ago with what I could not tell- large killie? sand crab? Gracie grabbed it but their backs were to the cam, then # 1 took it, had a time ingesting, Gracie trying to help him. Then the screaming started up again. George has been MIA, Gracie, I think, is up on the perch- please come back home with a big fish, Daddy!

      • Patty July 16, 2015 at 4:23 pm - Reply

        Wonder what’s up with George! He has not brought in a meal for a very long time- worried that all will not be well in the nest if the kiddies & Gracie do not get fed VERY soon….

      • Patty July 16, 2015 at 4:59 pm - Reply

        Compared to other Osprey nests that I have learned from your site, it seems that George does not bring enough food on a regular basis. Do you think that is because he is a very young Daddy? Thanks for any other input information

    37. Carol July 16, 2015 at 3:21 pm - Reply

      Saw George bring something in about 1:20ish. Couldn’t see what it was but it didn’t seem to last long. Something else brought in around 2:30 which was hidden by a beautiful view of George’s wings. Also didn’t last long.

    38. Trinity July 16, 2015 at 2:13 pm - Reply

      Everyday I look forward to my ‘quiet’ time of viewing these fascinating creatures. Many viewers are Long Island residents and the hustle & bustle can be overwhelming. What a relief to be able to connect with our local environment in this manner. Thanks again Tommy the Landlord & Joey the Welder for making it possible ?

    39. Cindy July 16, 2015 at 1:43 pm - Reply

      The chicks at Chesapeake nest get fed good. There’s no fighting at all.

    40. Jara July 16, 2015 at 1:11 pm - Reply

      Absolutely hysterical watching one of the chicks in front of the camera. George must be up on his perch.

    41. Lucie Pecor July 16, 2015 at 1:00 pm - Reply

      I cannot believe they are growing so dang fast!!

    42. Jai July 16, 2015 at 12:10 pm - Reply

      The nest is looking better this morning. Someone came in and did some nestorations 🙂

    43. Karen July 16, 2015 at 12:06 pm - Reply

      Sadly, the chick that was pushed out of the nest at Woods Hole yesterday did not survive.

      “We are so sorry to have to let you all know that, despite everyone’s efforts, the young osprey died this morning. The bird was severely emaciated, which was a strong contributing factor. We are running more tests. It is a hard fact of nature that ospreys often reject ill or weak young and there is often nothing that can be done for them at that point. Thank you all so much for caring!”

    44. Rjoneal July 16, 2015 at 10:50 am - Reply

      Karen I mentioned the other site to compare the difference in the nest and how the babies don’t fight. However just like are little guy here the younger one learned to wait his turn it seems once they know there place in line and as long as the fishing is good all will be peaceful. On another site were there are 3 babies in Idaho the youngest is the weaker one and gets far less than the others but is still growing. Only time will tell if he will make it. But it is hard to watch since he is always hungry and is only getting crumbs.
      Paul’s osprey zone is my favorite and is part of my family but at night you can see other sites to learn and compare especially in CA since it is daylight there. It helps me understand the difference of the Ospreys depending on their weather and environment around them. As long as Paul continues and the landlords I will be cheering Rachel and George every year. I live in Florida and have 2 osprey nest by me waiting to see if they migrate I’m told some stay due to our weather and one of the nest has 4 babies all flying around me everyday its awesome.

    45. kgerette July 16, 2015 at 10:46 am - Reply

      Double poop shot by both chicks at 10:45. At least it was out front and not on the camera.

    46. Joan T. July 16, 2015 at 10:43 am - Reply

      Just amazing how big they are! The nest is getting crowded and the oldest sure looks like he wants to take off in flight. Soon, big guy, soon. Love the way the two preen themselves. Also looking forward to the day when they learn how to fish so they can start feeding themselves. I worry they will get enough between now and their independence day.

      • Joan T. July 16, 2015 at 10:44 am - Reply

        Worry they WON’T get enough. Typed too fast.

    47. sallyanne July 16, 2015 at 10:30 am - Reply

      It is such a pleasure to see one of the chicks flapping his wings (did you see that wing span??) and looking so……ATHLETIC!! Looking forward to more progress.

      However, here @ 10:25 on July 16th, not sure if smaller chick got enough food during this feeding.
      Good luck to George in his fishing today.

      PS Lens seems 99% clear, don’t you think??

    48. Carol July 16, 2015 at 10:16 am - Reply

      Small fish @10:14a.m.

      • Jan July 16, 2015 at 10:35 am - Reply

        Hi Everyone!! Doesn’t seem like the babies ate alot today. Did anyone see a big fish come in? Just want them to be well fed!!!

      • Jackie July 16, 2015 at 1:40 pm - Reply

        The nest is becoming a regular landfill for the chicks: hear them protest ! Shovel anyone???
        I thought ospreys were neater. 🙂 Gracie does a good job of rearranging the debris, George
        must be pleased. More room for the fishies.They can build a nest anywhere close to water. I
        wonder what type of fish they eat?

    49. Pat July 16, 2015 at 9:47 am - Reply

      Wow, these birds grow exponentially every night. They are now a big as their mother. Amazing!

      • DianeNY July 16, 2015 at 10:35 am - Reply

        Pat I was thinking the same thing. Look at how big they are getting!!! I love being able to watch them.grow

    50. gracey July 16, 2015 at 9:30 am - Reply

      I never meant for you NOT to show the ugly stuff… I worded it wrong. I mean – can the three highlight video’s at the right of the screen have one after Pee-wee’s demise? that’s all.

      Of course, that poor bird is part of the story…but many of us were badly affected. I would enjoy any other highlights, happy ones. thank you.

    51. Patty July 16, 2015 at 9:20 am - Reply

      Has anyone witnessed a feeding yet??

    52. Linda Ardizzone July 16, 2015 at 9:20 am - Reply

      I agree that what happened to Pee Wee is the reality of nature. The problem I have is with those who want to go back and watch the violence of it all. It is not an action movie people. It is a horrible violent death of a poor little bird. I fail to understand why anyone would go out of their way to go back and watch that. It seems detached at the very least and very disturbing. What has happened to people? Why in God’s name would anyone want to watch it? That is the problem I have with it all.

      • marilynJ July 16, 2015 at 10:35 am - Reply

        I second that. Well said. i also do not understand the need to watch such a sad event.

      • Mitchell July 16, 2015 at 10:52 am - Reply

        You’re just not a science person is all. Those of us that want to watch it do so for scientific reasons. In order to understand nature you must be able to study all of it. Imagine a cancer doctor who says Oh I have no experience with terminal cases that’s too much for me… Well that would just be absurd. If violence is what we really wanted to watch I’m sure we could find something better than a couple chicks pecking each other..

        • Pat July 16, 2015 at 3:43 pm - Reply

          i actually worked for 20 years as a “science person,” and the little I could bear to watch of Pee Wee’s real-time torture was enough to last me a lifetime.

        • MarilynJ July 16, 2015 at 4:16 pm - Reply

          Yes I am a science person. I am sure you can get the gist of it with one viewing. He was tortured to be eliminated from the group. Every time he lifted his head or moved his body, he as severely pecked at. Period. Is there that much more to learn.

          • Mitchell July 16, 2015 at 9:09 pm - Reply

            Survival of the most fit. Its how we all came to be.

            • andreaallennyc July 17, 2015 at 6:18 pm

              Mitchell,
              As a science person, I’m sure you realize that survival of the fittest as a force in evolution doesn’t really apply to the fighting between nestlings. In an evolutionary context, it refers to genetic differences and applies to the parents. In this instance, as one of the ornithologists explained earlier, Osprey evolved so that the lay eggs a day or more apart, so that the older siblings will have an advantage, plus they are hard wired to attack the younger siblings if there is not enough food, and the parents do not intervene. All this gives the best chance for the survival of at least one offspring. The survival of one Osprey chick vs another does not reflect genetic superiority (the evolutionary issue); it reflects age.
              Andrea

      • Pat July 16, 2015 at 12:42 pm - Reply

        Linda, I agree with you 100 percent.I hope I never see anything like it again.

    53. Rose Petejan July 16, 2015 at 9:18 am - Reply

      Are there any special markings on these two adult birds that will distinguish them when they return next year?

      • Jonathan July 16, 2015 at 12:56 pm - Reply

        Probably but gracie has different eyes then the ospreys Ive seen, if you look up American subspecies she has the same eyes as that, so i’m thinking gracie is a American subspecies of osprey, i tell them apart by her eyes.

    54. Carol July 16, 2015 at 9:14 am - Reply

      There was a great shot this a.m. about 5:40ish when Gracie started her fish dance and you could see George, behind her, coming across the bay, then popping in with a big whole fish. Seemed like a peaceful feeding thankfully. They were barely done with that when he showed up about 20 mins. later with a 1/2 fish for dessert. Always room for dessert!

      • Patty July 16, 2015 at 10:09 am - Reply

        Thank yo, Carol!

        • Patty July 16, 2015 at 10:10 am - Reply

          oops, thank you, Carol!

          • Carol July 16, 2015 at 11:56 am - Reply

            I must be spending too much time on this site. I just started smelling fish! No idea where it’s coming from…
            Anyway, what I wanted to say is that the 4 hour roll back is a great feature I really enjoy. That way I can catch early morning feedings before I go to work. I rolled back several times to see that fly-in this morning because it was so beautiful. I haven’t figured out the “watch later” feature tho. I don’t know what the playlist that I need to sign in for is all about. Very tech challenged!

    55. Lucie Pecor July 16, 2015 at 7:18 am - Reply

      scares me when they sit on the edge of that nest like that!! Safety first little ones!

    56. Rjoneal July 16, 2015 at 4:14 am - Reply

      Paul I was unable to comment yesterday on this but keep up the good work. I too am thankful for this site and everything you do for it and stand behind you.

    57. Rose Petejan July 15, 2015 at 11:51 pm - Reply

      Paul, have you ever thought of setting up a chat room. the Nelson Osprey Cam in British Columbia has a live chat room with someone knowledgeable answering our questions. It’s also nice to have other’s chatting back and forth with answers.
      Again, this is just a thought.

      • ospreyzone July 15, 2015 at 11:59 pm - Reply

        Will consider, thanks.

        • Jon July 16, 2015 at 12:21 am - Reply

          If this site is powered by wordpress you can get the disgus plugin and it replaces this entire comment system with a click of a button and can have it up in a heartbeat, it’s has instant comments, live chatting and mods can be assigned to moderate and even a featured comment section above all of it, sorry if i been saying this alot for a few weeks but i’m just trying to make it easy for you to find something better than having to try and fix something and take alot of time doing it, just a suggestion.

          • ospreyzone July 16, 2015 at 6:17 am - Reply

            Thanks again, We were trying to figure out if we could bring our old comments into a new platform and are very open to changing.

        • Jan Klinedinst July 16, 2015 at 8:11 am - Reply

          Thanks for every minute you spend here. I spent a while looking at other live Osprey sites. I learned a lot. Every nest is different based, I think, from materials available and pair experience. Audubon Osprey camera is moveable, which is a feature friendly plus. Your site is educational, Thanks!!

    58. Mitchell July 15, 2015 at 9:29 pm - Reply

      I am very grateful that I can come here and watch Nature in its entirety. All these request to not show the “ugly” stuff is absolutely ridiculous. If that’s what these people truly want then they need to be going to a Zoo instead. That is where they will see all the cute things and Humans will intervene if it starts getting to rough. Again I come here to watch nature in its entirety and am grateful to see it UNINTERUPTED.

    59. Patty July 15, 2015 at 4:37 pm - Reply

      okay, 4;32 pm, George comes in with a headless, smaller fish, Gracie grabs & starts feeding, can’t tell which one is feeding first, but betting on #1. The other babe has back turned to all at the moment…..so interesting to watch the dynamics!

    60. suzanne July 15, 2015 at 4:31 pm - Reply

      Maybe the nest is messy cause their instinct was to cover/bury the dead baby osprey? To help keep bugs away, and not step on carcass. Not sure but it seems like most of the new nesting material is always where baby was/is.

    61. DianeNY July 15, 2015 at 4:20 pm - Reply

      FYI at another osprey Nest at Woods Hole MA sibling rivalry for food became very aggressive and chick attacked the other and pushed it out of the nest. Cam watchers were able to alert someone nearby who collected the bird and brought it to a wildlife rehab, Last note in blog is that the osprey chick is alive and in good hands.

      • Karen July 15, 2015 at 6:42 pm - Reply

        That’s my concern for this nest. The Woods Hole chick was lucky and landed in some shrubbery. Those chicks are also 2 weeks older than these so probably more feathers to help glide down.

      • Ann H. July 15, 2015 at 6:59 pm - Reply

        You know, maybe, a net should be installed under the nest. You don’t want to find #2 splat on the concrete one day – considering the aggression we have seen in this nest.

    62. KarenH July 15, 2015 at 3:38 pm - Reply

      Someone recommended the Chesapeake Conservancy website cam. I do look at it and notice how clean it is. The babies even seem quieter. More relaxed. I wonder if it is the placement of the nest or just our birds are real New Yorkers. Check it out if you haven’t. Still love our cam the best.

    63. Karen July 15, 2015 at 3:17 pm - Reply

      3:15 An hour since fish delivery – both chicks have had their fill and there’s still enough left for Mom!

    64. Karen H July 15, 2015 at 3:07 pm - Reply

      At the 2:45 feeding in the beginning the bigger sibling seemed to be the only one getting any fish. I don’t know if #2 was waiting its turn or scared or what. I just know I could feel a little bit of anxiety watching. Thank goodness it was a big fish and they both ended up getting their share. Whew! Hate that feeling.

    65. June B July 15, 2015 at 3:00 pm - Reply

      Funny to see some sparrows in the nest helping themselves to nesting materials. They must think its Home Depot. None of the ospreys seem to care.

    66. Rose Petejan July 15, 2015 at 2:56 pm - Reply

      Paul, there is a lot of ugliness in this world. We should focus on the beauty and not the ugly. If you check out some of the other sites you’ll see most of what highlighted are the positives.

      • ospreyzone July 15, 2015 at 6:03 pm - Reply

        Although I appreciate this point of view, I don’t think that I should serve as a censer of nature, filtering out the harsh moments, deciding what people see and know about what really goes on in the real world. People should be left on their own to focus on whatever they choose, and decide for themselves what is or isn’t “beauty”. Having said that, I do agree that some of our raw footage is not appropriate for everyone all the time and we are planning on producing several versions of highlights, clearly labeled for our viewers discretion.

        • andreaallennyc July 15, 2015 at 6:09 pm - Reply

          Look at the Audubon site. When they put up footage of the nestlings being snatched by the eagle, they put it in a specially marked place.

        • JB July 15, 2015 at 7:13 pm - Reply

          Why is it that most everyone takes a hands off approach to wildlife, as in not intervening when there is something that seems unpleasant? But, when it comes to human beings, there are folks who want to micro-manage what everyone says, and what everyone does? Free speech does not include filters.

        • Heather July 15, 2015 at 7:34 pm - Reply

          I agree with Paul. I hated to see what happened to PeeWee. I actually cried over that little bugger, and I don’t cry over much. The fact is, it is nature, and it is as it was designed. The way it works helps the species thrive. It is beyond unpleasant to see, but it is real. If we can’t handle it, we should tune out. Too many people want to deny things they find unpleasant, to the point where we can’t even face the truth anymore. But, as they say, it is what it is. Paul, I’m grateful for what you’re doing, and hate to see people pressure you to do something when the right thing to do is nothing…but perhaps pray.

        • Patty July 15, 2015 at 7:53 pm - Reply

          Thank you, Paul!! You and your great group are not meant to be censors of nature. This is such an incredible experience to be able to witness all in the Natural course of Osprey Life, and to gather education, guided information and links to other wildlife cams! I personally feel proud to be involved in your novice venture and look forward to seeing this expand at all levels!!!

    67. June B July 15, 2015 at 2:54 pm - Reply

      Chicks being fed. Mom fed one first for a long time and when full, chick stepped aside so the sibling could eat. Must have finally read the book by Miss Manners. But anyway, both chicks having their fill.

    68. Patty July 15, 2015 at 2:20 pm - Reply

      Nice! 2;14pm, George just landed with a sizable (looks like a bluefish) late lunch for the family. Had to chuckle, Gracie grabbed that fish so quickly from Dad- whole fish, head intact, so hoping George gets some after the gang has their fill.

    69. Jai Hurst July 15, 2015 at 1:45 pm - Reply

      Wow, that nest is one hot mess. Seems like those plastic bags just keep reappearing. Such a shame when you see other nests that are clean and open for the family to move around.

      • Carol July 15, 2015 at 6:50 pm - Reply

        Maybe anyone who uses the beach below nest and surrounding area should be made to watch where their discards go! If the trash wasn’t there, Gracie wouldn’t use it. Anyone who has watched this site will probably be just a bit more plastic conscious.

    70. andreaallennyc July 15, 2015 at 1:02 pm - Reply

      Please label the highlights so that those who want to avoid viewing the little one can do that.

    71. gracey July 15, 2015 at 11:21 am - Reply

      Is there any way to have the highlights begin after PeeWee’s demise.?? I can’t watch the baby being born and tortured, especially knowing the outcome of the doomed one.

      Also I am wondering how Gracie, who is so maternal and protective, can just fly the coop and leave her offspring?? Do they mate only once a year or mate again in South America??

      Where do they rest along the way South? Also please do NOT name Piglet #1 “Phoenix”…He or she didn’t rise from any hardship…in fact #1 was born with a Sterling fish in its mouth.

      • ospreyzone July 15, 2015 at 11:56 am - Reply

        Sorry, our “little one” was definitely part of the story and by the way we are currently working on a memorial piece for him/her. As far as names go, all entries will be fairly judged. We have posted more details about the naming contest under “Name The Babies”. To all those who “can’t watch”, please don’t, but understand that many others are interested in viewing this “window” into nature, however raw it might be. It does not mean that we are any less saddened.

        • Leanne July 15, 2015 at 1:55 pm - Reply

          I Love the idea of giving lil “Rocky” a memorial. If any baby bird deserved one, it’s Rocky. I miss him but he will always have a place in my heart.

        • Mitchell July 15, 2015 at 3:54 pm - Reply

          Thank you very much Paul..

      • Karen July 15, 2015 at 12:57 pm - Reply

        Here is a blog post that addresses your question of how Gracie can fly off and leave her offspring. Remember that all of their actions are controlled by hormones and instinct. That’s why #1’s only sin was hatching first. His job and Gracie’s job is to make sure he survives. The other 2 would be nice but to them they are only a backup plan. That’s definitely not my way of thinking but I would make a terrible wildlife handler.

        http://www.dyfiospreyproject.com/blog/2013/09/glesni-starts-her-migration

        The nest referred to in this blog is in the UK and those osprey migrate mostly to West Africa instead of South America. Rob Bierregaard, who has commented on this site, has a website that charts the migration of the osprey he has fitted with transmitters – amazing to see.

        http://www.ospreytrax.com/html_files/Artoo%202014.html

        They only mate once a year in the spring when they return. They don’t build or live in nests during the winter in the South.

    72. sallyanne July 15, 2015 at 10:37 am - Reply

      Wed. July 15 @10:30AM
      Happy to see the whole family, and quite excited with the smaller chick flapping its wings very impressively!! Wouldn’t that be something—if he were the first to fledge!!

    73. Debbie July 15, 2015 at 10:35 am - Reply

      Both got a good share of the fish for breakfast. good job George… And boy does that nest need a good cleaning. It is
      so full of crap hard to find a place to lay down… Gracie put an ad in the local paper for housekeeper…. 🙂 Oldest has been doing a lot of wingersizing….

    74. Jennifer July 15, 2015 at 9:21 am - Reply

      Yesterday was so hard to watch them not eat. I think they only had, maybe 3 fish. I was having my lunch and I felt guilty. We take everything for granted. Looks like they had a good breakfast this morning!! Lets hope that continues…

    75. Lucie Pecor July 15, 2015 at 7:07 am - Reply

      getting scared reading these comments. Are we in danger of losing another babe Rob?? Due to aggression? Watched Rachel and Steve lose their babes- scary thought.

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