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osprey 07/11/15 squirt
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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
Finally other baby came home to eat Gracie feeding yeah I feel better knowing both babies got some food.
Both babies did not get food. Ronnie is a piggy and Gracie is giving Sandy the short shrift. When ever there is a fish delivered, piggy Ronnie grabs it and Gracie lets him/her. For the last two days, I would doubt that Sandy has consumed the equivalent of 1 1/2 fish. That does not fare well for traveling and learning how to fish. I feel so bad and helpless when she cries.
Finally around 3:32 PM one of the babies arrives at the nest I think it’s Sandy baby number two I usually can tell them apart by the way they cry their screams could be wrong but I think it’s baby 2 and Gracie is finally feeding Sandy Yeah !
Poor Gracie she spent half the time calling for George to bring food now see spending half her time calling to the babies to come eat the food. I’m surprise she can still call out.
It’s 315 Wednesday and baby number two name Sandy has not shown up I’m so upset since I know Sandy has not gotten much to eat in the past two days other than the tail end of the fish. Now yesterday Sandy stayed in the nest quite a bit no one came with fish so today Sandy is nowhere to be seen and mamas been sitting there for an hour calling and slowly eating the fish but no babies. You think they would stay close and be listening for Gracie’s calls for dinner time
I have been quietly watching our beautiful family since the start; this is the first time I have posted. Their story has had their ups and downs, like most families. But their story is a beautiful one. I will miss our little family as they go off to winter down South. I wish them strenghth, luck and happiness in their journey. Pee Wee will be with them in spirit as they travel. In addition to learning more about the Ospreys, I have learned a very good lesson this summer… When you think life is tough, always remember there are plenty out there who may have it harder. Our Osprey family is no exception. They have the opportunity to live in nature, but mother nature can tough and their life is full of hard work and survival of the fittest. No rest for the weary! I look foward to seeing Graicie next season, along with George (depending on who you talk to), and wish Ronnie and Sandy a happy and peaceful life!
The entire question of Osprey mating for life has an extremely high degree of questionability. It is absolutely possible for two adult Osprey returning to the same nesting area to breed again and maybe again. Taking into consideration the quixotic notions we humans are engrained with, it would be so romantic for us to think Gracie and George will be together for another breeding season next year. The reality is there are only six species of birds that really mate for life in terms of never ever mating with another. They are the Black Vultures, Swans, Old Faithfuls, Albatrosses, Turtle Doves and our national symbol the Bald Eagle. Sadly for George, if Gracie gets back to the nest and a handsome Osprey dude shows up first, poor George might be out of luck. And he’s going to be circling the east end looking for a nesting female and starting his courtship. This includes impressing the young lady by delivering fish to her to prove what a great provider he is. There are times when two male Osprey will compete for a female’s favors. Boys being boys there is a little pecking at each other but it usually ends quickly without any injuries and one of the boys will go in search of another nesting female. There are cases where a male arrives at a nest first and will stake it out and wait for the girl of his dreams to show up and be “Johnny on the spot.” It’s all very fantastic and wonderful how Mother Nature keeps our Osprey going as long as humans allow them to “do their thing.” Maybe this is the start of a Long Island Osprey fan club! Oh, by the way, the migration south is a total “solo” flight even for the young. Osprey don’t flock or migrate in pairs or groups. The parents will leave the nest first, a day or so apart. Several days later each youngster will take flight heading south and most likely will never be together again in their lives.
Thats how humans are too. However most likely they will mate again next year.. chances are better then not.
From watching the Cornell Hellgate Nest in 2014 and reading the comments there, the mother will leave first and the father will stay behind to guarantee that the chicks are catching fish and feeding themselves. Stanley, the dad, remained at the nest for quite a long time, until the last of three chicks headed south. I understand that this is the standard procedure for the osprey family.
And Stanley and Iris have been a twosome for over 8 years and using the same nest in Missoula, Montana.
From what I gathered from an osprey expert. The female is more married to the nest than the partner. If the male fail to return or retuned late, she has no trouble moving on to the next available male osprey.
Paul, just visited the gift shop; love that there is more than hats, but was dismayed to see the field bag comes with a statement that it was made with chemicals known/believed to cause cancer and reproductive issues. I appreciate the cautionary statement but perhaps Ospreyzone might reconsider that bag and look for a replacement that is not harmful. Will be making a purchase as soon as I decide which tote bag I want….
Thanks for hearing me out
That’s news to me, appreciate the info and I’ll take a look.
Paul
In watching the rescue video, I noticed what appears to be a trash enclosure near where the boom truck was placed. Could that be where Gracie goes shopping for her nest accessories?
Nope, it’s always closed.
Paul
Paul I see in the Osprey zone store you have a place for promo code do you have any promo codes going on right now at this time ? ??
Nope, but you might check with the store from time to time. I don’t really know how all that works, very new to me. I did notice that the hats were being discounted this morning, not sure why or for how long.
Paul
I got a pop-up coupon for 20% off when I was on another website doing some research. Happened less than an hour ago.
Any possibility of adding a tank top to the store selection??
Since we’re asking for additions of selections….:-) how about a zipped hoodie or a sweatshirt?
Will look into it.
Phil’s comments are very nicely stated. As for our friend, Linda, she would do well to contemplate Hamlet’s comment to Horatio – “There is a certain providence in the fall of a sparrow.” We might also substitute “Osprey chick” into that remark. A greater hand than ours moves such things.
Sorry I found the Osprey zone store on the site I guess I just overlooked it before. Thank you Paul I am so excited and can’t wait to wear my hat and T-shirt and anything else I order with pride it’s been a pleasure and really can’t wait till next year hopefully we will all be together again . I’m going to miss all of us viewers talking back-and-forth it’s like having a second family. Hopefully those of us who watched this from the beginning will reunite next year. Of course we can’t forget to thank the landlords and all the experts, rescuers, along with Paul and his team members that helped make this happen .
Ditto dear Rjoneal, I couldn’t have said it better! Just ordered hats and tee shirts too! Many thanks to all and please let me know if an OA gets organized! xoxoxo
I just visited your OSPREYZONE store…I was pleasantly surprised to see more for sale than hats…so I bought a tee and a hat.
I hope you keep our email addresses for updates when you know something and especially when you turn the camera on next year. We will all
be waiting. This has been terrific. I have never had a fancy towards birds and now I can’t get enough. Thank you.
I am a little under the wheather today..first time checking on our family..hear a lot of noise don’t see any family members…the one thing I did do was to order MY OSPREY HAT & SHIRT… WILL FEEL SO PROUD TO WHEAR THEM..Soon now in what I read Mom will be leaving first.then in couple weeks Dad will go…Will the babies follower
Him done? A true OA member
In reference to Phil’s blog please read below. I do you believe that ospreys mate for life except for certain circumstances and of course there’s always exceptions but for the most part they mate for life ! We have nest live cams especially the one in Idaho and then there’s one in Maine that are tagged birds and they have returned several years in a row to mate for life. I do believe some stray and I do believe there are going to be differences of opinions and information out there but I’ve witnessed it according to the tag birds two years in a row. So don’t get discouraged we might see George and Gracie again next year please read info below ! Thank you Phil for your information it was great I just have one issue with the mating for life I guess everyone’s entitled to their opinion.
Birds of Prey Northwest biologist Jane Fink with a rehabilitated osprey.
Does the same osprey pair come back to the same nest each year?
Ospreys have a high nest-site fidelity and return to previously existing nest structures each year. You are likely seeing the same pair if you observe two birds early in the season at this nest site. The perils are many as the ospreys return from their wintering grounds – sometimes as far south as South America! Should its mate not return, the male will likely attract another mate. Mortality factors for the osprey include electrocution, illegal shooting and vehicle collision.
From what I gathered from an osprey expert. The female is more married to the nest than the partner. If the male fail to return or retuned late, she has no trouble moving on to the next available male osprey. Also if the male fails to inseminate her eggs and produce viable embryos, she would move to greener pastures.
they got so big
OOPS!!
Re reading Phil L’s blog, I see that our LI chicks would return to LI to breed, not hang out in my Naples area!
Sorry. I guess it was wishful thinking on my part!
I
Aug. 12 11:48DST
Thank you, Phil L. for such an informative post re the word origins of the sea hawk (osprey) and your other addt’l info
I keep reading how some of these birds fly as far south as South America. I winter in Naples FL and we have a nest of ospreys at a beach I visit. Camera is set up there also..Last season, our couple successfully launched 3 chicks (that is why I first was so hopeful with these LI 3)
Since FL is closer than SA i would love to think one of these LI ospreys (i.e. OUR new fledglings )would land up in Naples, saving them time and effort!
Of course, they would have to establish their own territory and build their own nest. And i probably would not recognize them.
But, it’s a nice thought, isn’t it?
I was under the impression that Ospreys lay eggs in the summer and do not propagate in the winer months.
Can someone clarify?
Phil K, you are somewhat correct. They mate and lay eggs in the spring with a hatch in early summer. They do not bread until the following spring. The new chicks will not breed for about 4 years I believe.
PHIL K I am laughing at myself, I hope you know it should have been breed and not bread. :)))))))
Sallyanne,
Don’t you wish we could have a talk with Gracie, George and the kids and let them know they don’t have to fly so far south, that Florida for wintering would be perfect! I could even offer to drive them haha. It just makes me sad to think one of them might not make it through the grueling trip to SA….and I will always wonder.
Reflecting on Linda from Colorado’s comments and the ensuing conversation thread, I thought it might be good to share some of my research into Ospreys that was so inspired by viewing Gracie and George’s seasonal breeding experience. What I learned is that the Osprey’s etymology is Pandion – The Greek name of a mythical king of Athens who transformed into a great bird Haliaetus which is Greek for “Sea Hawk.”
Osprey are found on every continent of the world except Antarctica. After Gracie and George’s brood is fledged and able to hunt fish on their own, as the weather cools, a great emigrational journey will start for both parents and our two juniors. All four will follow the eatable bait size fish and warm weather south, embarking on what will be a nearly 2,000 mile “flight to live.” Osprey can live to be as much as 20 years old and can log up to 160,000 miles of flight during their lifetime. Gracie, George and the younglings will spend the winter as far away as South America. At times, some Osprey will winter on Caribbean Islands. They are truly Long Island snowbirds.
The migration is brutal. It’s a long exhausting journey, sometimes fish are scarce and there is no time stay in one place to hunt. Not all adult or young Osprey survive the trip. It’s particularly tough on the first year Osprey. This all leads back to the issue of the third chick and how Mother Nature and a million years of evolution has ingrained into the Osprey’s DNA what it needs to do for the species to survive. Osprey eggs can hatch up to five days apart and the youngest, weakest can fight a losing battle for food with siblings. If you watched closely you will have noticed the two stronger chicks, at times, pecked at each other and gave notice of a willingness to “fight” back. This set the tone for which chicks got the most food and this in turn would allow the species to persist just as Mother Nature intended. The weaker chicks would never survive the 2,000 mile flight.
If our two strong and healthy chicks make it to South America, they will stay there for two years building strength and maturing before they attempt a breeding journey to Long Island. Yes, in the spring of 2018 they will be back, returning to the same area of their birth to start their own new families.
As for Gracie and George, only Gracie will return to the exact same nest. Osprey do not mate for life. She will settle in the nest, do some structural repairs setting up a new home and seeking to attract a new mate. As arriving males scan the nesting ladies, I’m sure more than one will see Gracie as a real “knockout.” Perhaps “Ralph” will join her creating a new home for their new youngsters. As for George, yes he will return but he will not necessarily be looking for Gracie but rather a different female will catch his fancy. All this is part of keeping the Osprey bloodline the very strongest it can be to perpetuate species survival.
My hope and I’m sure that of everyone who has become endeared to Gracie, George and family is having the Osprey cam active next spring. What can be more thrilling than to see Gracie return home from South America, after a nearly 4,000 miles round trip journey to start a new family. I am sure all of us will be jumping with joy and cheering her on. I will raise a glass to her for sure.
For Linda, yes, we all felt sad at Mother Nature’s death but also exhilarated at Mother Nature’s life. Keep in mind that life is defined by two things – movement and growth – and the cycle of life on our planet depends on consuming that which is or once was alive including those tomatoes in your salad.
Sadly, DDT and fishing line in nests have been the real threat to Long Island Osprey survival, all man made. Therefore, it’s a responsibility of man to cure and prevent the threat it created. The experts are 100% correct. Cure the ill created by man but don’t fool with Mother Nature.
Having lived on Long Island all my life, almost 70 years, I have always loved and marveled at our Osprey and watching the cam each day has been a thrill of a lifetime for me personally and wonderfully educational.
Wishing all well and our Long Island Osprey family a safe journey south with autumn’s first chill.
Phil I–Your email is very good. However, I have read that Osprey’s DO mate for life. Your email is contrary to what I read. I am not saying your are incorrect but would like to know if they do or not mate for live
Most osprey couples are monogamous and do mate for life but there’s an exception to every rule. Some may have a wandering eye ?
Can you give us a citation of your sources.Eespecialy the part about not mating for life because thats kind of a new one. Most of the experts ive herd said they mate for life. barring unforseen circumstances.
“Flight of the Osprey” by David Gessner
Thank you for this informative and touching synopsis to our Osprey family and all their kind. As a first year watcher of these magnificent birds I have been thrilled to tears and heartbroken to tears throughout this journey. I do marvel at the wonders of Nature and will tune in next spring without a doubt. Best of Luck to this little family as they prepare to begin the journey to their winter home!
A great post but I do slightly disagree with the mating for life. Everything I’ve read says they do mostly mate for life but will make changes for various reasons. Some say it’s more accurate to say they mate with the nest for life. The successful nest is the biggest draw and if one of the pair doesn’t return, then the other one selects a new mate.
Phil – thanks much for this very informative and touching article. As for the mating for life (or not), I defer to the experts. I enjoyed reading all you shared. I’m wondering if ospreys make it to Colombia where I was born. 🙂
Thanks Phil. Somewhat outdated material, but interesting nevertheless. Keep observing, you are in for some real surprises!
Have any of you Locals, seen the kids dive into the water trying to catch a fish? I assume this is the next BIG THING for them to ready for their trek south. Also, does George fish in the same area all the time or are there several places that fish are close to the surface. I would love to be in the area and watch them fish.
Botany 101: Taking a closer look yesterday, what I originally thought was a corn stalk was in fact a Phragmite- common reed, a perennial wetland grass, my bad! However, Corn is a grass so at least I was in the right ballpark.
Made the same mistake. I realized it was some kind of grass but didn’t know what. so thanks for the correct name…Is it something that grows wild or was George raiding someone’s berm?
Gracie showed up about 20 mins. ago (:6:25-6:30amEDT) and worked her way around and just took control of the chick’s fish a few minutes ago. Mom is still in charge
Early morning looks like one chick had fishtail possibly left over from yesterday. Had a good grip on it as the nest got brighter and wasn’t sharing.
Just about 5:53amEDT George dropped off small whole fish and other chick took charge of it. Breakfast early and off to a good start for the day. This chick didn’t seem to have any trouble starting a whole fish by himself. They are learning so quickly!
Where is the link to the hats I have seen mentioned in the comments?
finalizing hats etc.
Exciting ! Thanks Paul !
The proceeds from the hats, will they be going to a wildlife conservation org.
To be determined, if there are any proceeds.
It is 5:27 est
Does anyone else see some sort of an animal on blk tarp to the left under first layer or am I nuts? You have to enlarge screen.
Sorry I didn’t time it but around baby#1 ate A headless fish losing the tail over side, would not share . Daddy dropped in, watched a few seconds, flew off and brought a headed fish which #2 quickly claimed. ate down below gill then went for head. Pretty full on half but still eating on. #1 is waiting on perch for a mistake to be made and I’m smiling the whole time.
After Tuesday’s slim pickings, let’s hope more fish are brought to the nest. Storm has passed and hunting conditions should improve ??
I don’t understand how it can be more comfertable to roost then it is to lay down. I should try that cause laying down is not working out.
I love the updated rescue video!! Thanks again for all the time, patience, and, I’m sure, money you invested in this wonderful website.
I will be very sad when they migrate South.
(PS – I am not the person of the negative comments)
Its 9:01 pm, going back about 2 hrs, did one of the chicks take the fish from Gracie & not share with the sibling?
About 7:00 p.m. EST, George finally came in with a nice size fish which was grabbed (just like Gracie does) by chick #1. I felt so bad, because he would not share it with his sibling. We know that both of them are starving, because I do not believe they had breakfast or lunch — but I’m not positive. Chick #1 chased George away, who returned with another big fish. I thought it was for chick #2, but he decided to eat it himself. Poor baby! I worry about that chick, because it is so patient and timid. Worry about him when it’s time for him to be on his own.
After chick #1 had enough to eat, he let his brother have the rest of it. It’s amazing how they both are learning to feed themselves. Wonder if that is why Gracie has not been around. Maybe she wants them to learn to be independent.
However, it’s dark now and I still have not seen her. Tomorrow will be nice weather!!
Will the left over fish still be eatable in the morning? and If so do you think Ronni will Let Sandy have the rest of it out of kindness?
I do not think that the word or meaning of “kindness” is part of Osprey dynamics at this point, in viewing what I see. In this part of their lives, the chicks have to learn to survive, and, as in the beginning, it’s tough. When adverse conditions present themselves, the parents react according to what is imprinted in their brains. We do not understand it, as we cannot understand a lot of human behavior either (ie. ISIS) or mental illness or whatever is foreign. I DO believe what is imprinted is that #1 is Priority and #2 is Patience. I have seen it over and over again. When I came upon those names, the contest was closed, so oh well. We just have to hang on as this rollercoaster of wildlife takes the “batman” ride like at Great Adventure.
I still can’t tell the chicks apart. Can someone tell me what is a defining mark or color they look for to tell these two chicks apart. I do see the parents have darker feathers.
Paul just watched the new updated video it was awesome brought tears to my eyes once again. I too would love to purchase one of those Osprey zone hats seems I’m addicted to our osprey family. Glad the names are finally posted good choice ! Probably still can’t thank you enough see you next year hopefully. Sad to say I only saw Gracie I think once today I think she’s either hiding out to see how George does her she might’ve headed out on her way. Poor little guy youngest one had to fend for him or herself today but finally got a little bit from dad. George was determined to get his share first and not give too much to baby. Got to give baby credit he/she tried going after brothers several times even getting poked. I hope Gracie didn’t leave she really needs to stay with baby for a couple more days baby is not quite ready to be on its own but I guess baby we’ll survive instincts will kick in.
Thank you Tommy
I love the names! I would have been disappointed with anything other than PeeWee for our dear departed little one. CarolV – I hope this nest brings peace to your life. That’s what brought me to nest watching in the first place. It has brought a new dimension to my life that I needed. Thank you Paul.
Thank you for your good wishes.
The chick who had the fish must be Ronnie. After Gracie started feeding Sandy, Ronnie decided he wanted Gracie to feed him, so Sandy was pushed out and wound up on the other side of Gracie. Just before 8pm Gracie took off with what was left of her fish and Ronnie is back working on his.
About 8:03pmEDT Ronnie had enough and stepped back. Sandy sidled over and sweet talked his case then slid a foot out to pull the fish to him.
I’m of course guessing on who’s who. Could someone paint their toenails please?
Love the new highlight video of a little back story on rescue! Nice to “meet” the players.
August 11, 2015
Well, finally, as I turned back to video….
August11, 2015, at 6:37.
I assume the second fish was brought to the nest by Gracie, and I can’t believe she is not sharing with Sandy–2–after all this time feeding herself. Sandy is not her favorite, but Gracie has usually fed her after Ronnie has had some. Dynamics will change for a while, I guess. And yes, I could be wrong, but I’m quite sure who is who.
Congratulations to the winners! – Love the names!!
About 6:45pmEDT George brought in a headless fish to an empty nest and called for the kids. First one in took charge of the fish; other one came in and had a lot to say but no luck on sharing.
Gracie arrived about 7:15 with her own headless fish and proceeded to eat it herself. Poor 2nd chick again ignored.
After almost 10 minutes looks and sounds like fishless chick being fed by Gracie. They are rudely hanging out so far to right we can’t see what’s happening……….
Ronnie check 1 will be easy to figure out she always eats first and poor Sandy always eats 2nd.. I think Sandy likes to be a home..
As soon as hats are available I want one..will wear it with great pride.
Carol, sorry to hear you’ve been experiencing some sadness. Hope things are looking brighter!
I was also surprised to see Gracie eating while ignoring Sandy(?) but thought she may not have eaten all day with the storm and she does have to start preparing herself for migration.
Looking thru the tape, I saw that George had come to the nest with a whole fish just about 6:13. He took off with that fish and I would imagine that’s the one he brought in headless 1/2 hr. later
Gracie came with a headless fish so don’t know if is the same one that was delivered to the nest earlier, but Ronnie pulled it away from Gracie and is not letting Sandy near it. But Gracie left after she lost hold and it does look like a big fish but I don’t think Sandy is able to feed herself yet with anything Ronnie won’t be able to finish. They are too far to the right side of nest so I can’t see what is going on but I hear chirping and think Sandy is just waiting to get some food. I hope she can feed herself. Maybe that is why Gracie left to encourage Sandy to feed herself. Maybe Gracie is anxious to get going south especially after todays bad weather. Can’t blame her. And I too think they are both female since it has been pointed out many times that the females have that “necklace” which I think are those brown spots on their chests. Sandy is really screaming for food now. She must be so hungry I hope Ronnie leaves some and she is able to feed herself.
OMG Ronnie or Sandy has Talon caught in fish bone, Hopping around the nest trying to dislodge, will the drama never end????
One of the birds was on my lawn today trying to catch a squirrel unsuccessfully. He was rather stunned and may be there still. Over on Stars and Cedar Drive. I hope the little fellow finds his way home he is hungry
I will check back on him later. I want him to stay safe.
George back with a headless fish at 6:45. One chick immediately jumps down from the perch, takes the fish and begins mantling and squawking like Gracie. They certainly learn from their parents! The other chick can be seen soaring in over the water in hopes of getting a few bites. Nothing so far. Hope Gracie comes with another one soon.
More drama and “mean-ness”. #1 has the fish and won’t give #2 a bite. She’s been without anything ALL day. Poor thing!
Poor Sandy isn’t being given a bite – Gracie is even hogging the whole fish! I’m shocked that she just does not really care about Sandy, or at least does not show it.
I think they are both females because of the black spots on their chests which could be necklaces. Are they going to be banned. Would have been a good opportunity when they had the wire taken off their leg.
Young birds generally all have speckles on their chests.
Oh, maybe that was George that brought the fish and he panicked when Gracie wasn’t there to do the feeding. I have trouble telling them apart and I don’t recall George ever bringing fish to the nest when Gracie wasn’t there waiting for him. Hope whoever has that fish comes back soon.
What just happened? Gracie came with a nice size fish. Sandy was in the nest but Gracie only stayed a few seconds and flew off taking the fish with her. Ronnie has arrived but where is Gracie with the only food all day? also worried about George-he has be MIA all day.
6:15 P.M. EST – George flies into nest with gigantic fish – only one chick in the nest – no Gracie – so he takes off . . . With the fish! Sigh! Cmon’ George.
My apologies to Gracie…the “corn” was George’s gift.
First, Paul, I love the new video of the rescue. Thank you for showing us the behind the scenes look!
Second, with George being a new dad and not really an expert at this kid stuff- although he has become a champion fish provider – I hope he knows how to teach this chicks how to fish because Gracie will be on her way by then…
I’m just getting caught up on the last couple of days. I had a little sadness in my life and while checking in on video brought a smile to my face, I hadn’t read comments.
As far as the negative comments made by a poster elsewhere, I think Paul said it all when he stated he would have marked them as TRASH if posted on this site. I’m sure from all the responses that we support all the decisions Paul and company have had to make, especially since he consulted experts more experienced in these situations. I’ve thanked him and all involved for the pleasure of this site and can only add one more thank you now.
On a more serious note……..seriously, Gracie, CORN??????? At least it’s not plastic!
Also, love the names!!! And it had to be Peewee.
This may sound like I’m crazy, but it looks like they’re placing flowers on Pee Wee’s gave………….
Typo…..”grave”
Nope, not crazy…nice thought.
It’s good that Ronnie and Sandy are gender neutral names since we don’t really know. Although I suspect Ronnie is a girls and Sandy is a boy. Good name choices.
Paul – Who is Who? – #1 is……….#2 is………..
#1 is Ronnie
#2 is Sandy
I can never tell which is #1 and which is #2. It doesn’t matter to me. Cute names. Congratulations to the winners!! 🙂
Both fledglings dropped by the nest at 5:30pm. Typical kids, out playing all day, and then arrive home just in time for supper.
Love the new video, and the baby names. I have been so hooked all summer that we refer to these as my birds and everyone understands. Such an amazing, happy, sad, wondrous experience. Thank you.
Yea!, they have names..so who is who…one chick has more white on feathers..Ronnie or Sandy?
Love the names Ronnie and Sandy and so glad the wee one stays as peewee as we all remember him. I’m Just old enough to remember George and Gracie Allen so takes me down memory lane. So many thanks again Goodnight from a Scot living in England
Paul, have the chicks been named? I thought I saw a comment that sounded like they had been. If so, what are the names?
Check out the “name the babies” section of the website.
Paul
Congratulations to the contest winners ??!
Just got an e-mail announcing the chosen names…Ronnie, Sandy and PeeWee.
whoaaaaaa! Those housekeeping skills sure does make one cringe! More plastic, some greens, and (lo! and behold!) do I see the wiper blade resurfacing?!! Someone should read “Helpful Hints from Heloise” to them! Still fascinating to me. There are multiple nests there? Can the cam be reinstalled above another “beginning” family? Ready to take one another one, Paul?? Much gratitude! I hope this family’s adventures made it’s way to a school child’s homework report!
Welcome Ronnie & Sandy!! Love your names.
Pee Wee our beloved baby.
Congratulations winners!!
Congratulations to the name contest winners! I think Ronnie and Sandy are very appropriate while also managing to be gender neutral.
Now if only someone can tell me which is which!
I had no idea these guys could shuck corn!
Hysterical, I was thinking the same thing.
Nice rain,we needed that and then some. Paul I see the names have been selected, Congats to the winners, your up!
What are the names Tucker?? I must of missed that
Just looking at the nest, they sure do have a way with “decorating”…..And, does anyone have any suggestions for filling the “void” until next nest time……..Of course my house might get cleaned and I might find the stove but I need “chicks”….
Dorothy I’m with you, it’s getting to be lonely without our chicks lounging around all day.
Since they have truly become celebs they are probably vacationing in the Hamptons!!!
Getting “empty nest syndrome”. Missing the ospreys.
Do they eat elsewhere now? anyone?
I think the fledglings still like to go back to the nest to eat but they will also eat elsewhere. They’ll be learning to eat while perched – to me that seems more difficult.
Oh okay thanks. Yea they still have great difficulty eating in the nest on their own.
I had NO idea there were so many Osprey nests on the East End. I feel very fortunate to get to drive past a nest on my way to work every morning in Port Washington. I just love watching the family fly and hunt. The new video of the rescue is amazing. Thanks for all the commentary!
I couldn’t believe the number of nests. That certainly explains why wayward fledglings keep stopping by.
In addition to learning about the birds viewed on the cams, I’ve also enjoyed learning more about the different areas in which they’re located. I knew nothing about Long Island except for the name but because of this nest, I’ve become very interested in the whole area.
Where did everybody go?? Is that a windshield wiper, good grief.
Loved the video Paul, I will watch it a few times & you are a handsome devil..
OK a little humor?
I’m sorry to bring up Linda the unpleasant commenter here again but she really can’t stop and since she receives and reads all of these comments (very odd), I thought I’d post this link.
This is a Google map I happened across a while back pinpointing all the osprey nests in Eastern Long Island. I was amazed!
https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=zu3037ceTPbE.keUXkO11riXQ&hl=en_US
She believes this nest should be moved to a more suitable location away from all the “drunk jackasses wreaking havoc” and that everything bad that happened is Paul’s fault.
Someone had better talk to the ospreys about their poor decision making and then get busy moving all those nests.
Great Map, great find, thanks. It’s amazing how many nests there are here on Long Island.
Linda can’t stop, but we can, let’s just wish her peace and move on.
Thanks
Paul
Thank you for the new updated rescue video and I agree, with your suggestion about Linda. If she cannot get a reaction it will take all the fun out of it for her. Just tune her out.
No fish all day as of 2:40pm. Weather is clearing…looks like things will start to clear within the hour, and then maybe fishing will pick up. No sign of George all day, and only a few cameos by Gracie.
I was wondering how our ospreys fared during the storm this morning. I didn’t log on until a few minutes ago. It looks like things are OK. 🙂
Love watching the birds
Feel so bad for this little guy all alone. It’s really coming down on Eastern Long Island!