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Bald Eagles Visit Nest
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OspreyZone Yankee
March 18, 2016 Timelapse
The Summer of 2015 by GinaM
Osprey Rescue Extended - July 30, 2015
Osprey Zone Highlights - June 28, 2015
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osprey 07/11/15 squirt
First Sighting
George and Gracie's First Baby
Eggs Over Easy
Changing of the Guard
Breakfast is Served
Upgrading
Feeding Time
First Love
Let's Hang Out
Hard to Get
Little Brother
Intruder
Dinner is Served
OspreyZone Montage
OspreyZone Highlights: George Returns
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Belle’s Journey
Written by Dr. Rob Bierregaard & Illustrated by Kate Garchinsky
Take flight with Belle, an osprey born on Martha’s Vineyard as she learns to fly and migrates for the first time to Brazil and back–a journey of more than 8,000 miles.
IMPORTANT: Messages from osprey experts
I haven’t seen the little guy yet this morning, but I would be very surprised if he survived the night. That sure was tough to watch yesterday, but that whole process is as much a part of the essence of being an Osprey as is eating a fish. It’s part of the life of Ospreys that was rarely seen before we started putting cameras in nests. As hard as it is, we should not label the behavior as mean or cruel. Being mean or cruel implies that there is intent to do harm just for harm’s sake. Those young were responding to a set of stimuli (very little food being delivered to the nest and the presence of a very small young) in a way that evolution has hard-wired into them. It helps ensure their survival. Nature is not cruel. It is harsh, unforgiving, and often random (had the little guy been born 1st, he would have been just as aggressive as was his sibling), but not cruel or mean.
Paul Henry ospreyzone July 1, 2015 at 8:17 am
Thanks Rob for bringing your knowledge and experience to help us all gain perspective here. We are all saddened by the events that unfolded before our eyes and it’s only natural for all of us to feel and express our emotions appropriately. There have been many issues pertaining to intervention which have been discussed amongst us all. There is no doubt in my mind that the right decision was made, to let nature take it’s course. By the way, that doesn’t equate to heartless, on the contrary, nobody feels worse about this then the apparent decision makers. I say apparent, because when all was said and done, and all the issues were properly weighed, there really weren’t any other options. It was clearly pointed out, by experts, that intervening at this stage could have spooked the whole nest to the point of losing all the young. If the little one was saved, and nursed back to health, what kind of a life would it have had, perhaps caged up in a zoo. I remember when I was younger I saw a golden eagle in captivity, caged behind a wire mesh. I could practically see it’s tears. As far as placing the little one in another nest, such a low probability of success would never have justified the possibility of spooking the nest. There’s a piece of me, however heavy hearted, that believes that perhaps it is better to be born free and die free. We mourn for the little one as we marvel at the wonders of nature.
Hello Paul,
Thanks for your query, and you have my admiration for persevering. We know very well how tough your job is, including dealing with an anxious public.
Our policy with our Bird Cams project is essentially “just say no” to pleas for interference. The behavior you are witnessing – while seemingly cruel and heartless to us – is natural for many kinds of birds, especially those that feed on variable, unpredictable food supplies. The little nestling does have a chance to survive, but if it does not then that result was “meant to be” by the nature of Osprey breeding strategy. The wonderful things about these nest cameras also sometimes yield the difficult things for us to watch. As you might know, we actually post a “siblicide alert” on some of our cams where we suspect the possibility exists.
I’m copying your note to Charles Eldermire, project leader for our Bird Cams. He may have some additional comments, and he would be the one to ask if we might be able to use your stored files for biological analysis.
Best wishes, and good luck,
John W. Fitzpatrick
Director, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
It’s also important to acknowledge that intervening can also cause problems of its own—depending on the ages of the birds in the nest, disturbing them can trigger an early fledge. We have restricted the scenarios in which we would even consider intervening to injuries or dangers that are explicitly human-derived. For example, 3 or 4 years ago we were alerted by viewers that one of the osprey chicks at the Hellgate Osprey nest was entangled in monofilament line. We consulted with our partners there (wildlife biologists, raptor researchers, raptor rehabbers) to determine if the monofilament was an issue, and if intervening was both likely to solve the issue AND not have bad effects on the other nestlings. In the end, a quick trip to the nest was scheduled via a bucket truck, the monofilament was removed, and the nestlings all eventually fledged. In that case, all of the permits were already in hand to be studying the ospreys, and we had already discussed how to approach issues in the nest.
Good luck to the young one—hope it all turns out well.
charles.
*******************
Charles Eldermire
Bird Cams Project Leader
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
I’ve been to your site—great cam! And I noticed the runt in the nest. This is just normal Osprey reproduction. It happens all the time and you should not intervene. It’s tough to watch, but it’s how nature works. Ospreys almost always lay 3 eggs and on average fledge between 1 and 1.5 young each year. They stagger the hatch so there is a spread of ages in the young. That way, if food is short, the first-hatched (and therefore largest) will get enough food to survive while the smaller nest mates do not. If all three young were the same size and there was only enough food for 1 young, none of the young would get enough food and they would all die. If there’s lots of food, the smallest will eventually get fed and can survive. These nest cams can show some gut-wrenching scenes. The most infamous perhaps was one of the very first Osprey cams (on Long Island somewhere), where the smallest young died. One of the adults carried it out of the nest and after several minutes flew back into the nest and fed it to the other young. Waste-not-want-not at its goriest. At Hog Island up in Maine just last week a Bald Eagle came in and took the young out of the nest. Last year at another nest, cameras documented a Great-horned Owl taking young Ospreys out of a nest in NJ or MD. All of these things have been going on for millions of years and Ospreys are doing fine.
Rob Bierregaard
Academy of Natural Sciences
Drexel University
http://www.ospreytrax.com
Sandy sure seems to be a little immature doesn’t want to leave the nest or sleep standing she still lays down like they do when their babies. She hasn’t left the nest to sleep perched up in the trees and still needs some help feeding. Sweet little Sandy. She’s definitely give Vanessa show
Paul I know Ronnie was born first but wasn’t Sandy born about 5 to 6 days after Ronnie or am I wrong on that it’s been so long I can’t remember ?
I believe they were one day apart, maybe two. Anyone?
I believe Ronnie was born June 12 and Sandy was born on June 13. PeeWee was born June 15.
One day apart as I recall…it was PeeWee who was a bit late.
They are one day apart.
It looks like one chick is sleeping. but Gracie has been tugging at a fish for over an hour. The fish looked like a good size fish.
The way I tell them apart is Ronnie has a bigger head than Sandy.
Is that Sandy all by herself in the nest at 7:14 pm?
Oh wait, someone just came into the nest with a fish. Not sure who,
Hello all!
Now that our “babies” are maturing and will shortly be leaving us to begin their life’s journey, we are all feeling loss. I wanted to ease some heartache and post this Blog that was posted in April 2015 on Loch of Lowes Wildlife Blog.
“In 1991, a new female appeared on the nest, and little did we know then just how important this bird would be. Affectionately known as “Lady”, this osprey is to be the oldest known breeding osprey in the UK with an amazing breeding record at Lowes. In her 24 SEASONS here, with the help of four different males, she has hatched 71 eggs and managed to fledge 50 chicks. There is no doubting this female has been important in terms of breeding success and as an ambassador for osprey conservation in Scotland – she has captured the attention of webcam viewers from 96 countries, with over half a million people tuning in to watch her story unfold.”
Sadly, “Lady” did not return this year but her mate did. Upon his arrival “home” he found himself with a new female occupying his nest. After a bit he accepted her as his new mate and they succeeded in having three eggs hatch and all three magnificent chicks fledge.
So I believe, without a shadow of doubt, that it’s safe to say that odds are in our favor that George & Gracie will fill our hearts again in 2016! ?
Katherine
Have the chicks formally been named Sandy and Ron? Or do viewers just use these names? Why those names??
See “Name the babies” at the top of this webpage.
Named after George Burns and Gracie Allen’s children
They have been formally named and they come from the children of George Burns and Gracie Allen. #1 is Ronnie and #2 Sandy.
Scroll to the top of the page and click on NAME THE BABIES. All is explained.
Can someone tell me how you can tell the difference between Ronnie and Sandy?
Its very difficult to see any difference when looking at both in the next, laying down. The only way I can tell is when a fish comes into the next and by the aggressiveness of Ronnie, who is a Pig and hogs every bit of fish she can get her talons on. Sandy is the more demure of the two, always hanging back, getting mostly crumbs after Ronnie & Gracie have had their fill. I really fear for Sandy, as she is ill prepared to be “on her own”. I hope things change around in the nest and that George becomes of Super Warrior Angler Professor that he should be! They both need lessons on catching fish and he’s the only teacher. Too bad he hasn’t YET showed that he is up to the task. Most days Gracie brings in half the fish with a sore throat and out of desperation.
Since Ronnie is the #1 chick and more aggressive I judge by how they interact. He usually eats first. If one chick in nest when food arrives, is usually Sandy since he spends more time in nest. It’s all a guessing game for me still, but this is my best guess.
At work all day, couldn’t watch. I see now at around 6:15, looks like 2 chicks & Gracie having dinner. I think Gracie might have brought the fish in herself.
Logged in @6:20pm and see feeding happening. Scrolled back 4 hrs. to 2:20pm and see feeding happening. This makes me happy. I just have to figure out who’s eating!
Saw that around 4:00pmEDT George brought in a partial fish that was eaten by probably Ronnie.
About 5 Gracie showed up with her favorite, plastic….kids are telling her not a good substitute for groceries.
About 5:45pmEDT One chick alone in nest, so was probably Sandy..Gracie came in with large fish and fed him for a bit before Ronnie showed up. He wasn’t too aggressive probably being full from eating all of previous fish by himself. But he did sidle up next to them and it looked like both chicks ate. They have made a habit of eating in this right corner on the edge of nest, making observation difficult. The stinkers
Gracie in with another big fish @ 7:15pmEDT Just Sandy in the nest again.
Gracie was feeding Sandy when Ronnie sort of landed on her and slid off. About 7:22 just minutes later, George brought in a chuck of fish which Ronnie stole. George just standing around wondering ” What the heck??” and general pandemonium cause Gracie wants him out and Sandy wants more fish. Poor George gets the hint so finally everyone settles down to Ronnie with his fish piece and Gracie feeding Sandy. And the beautiful light of a setting sun shines over all…..
About 7:45pm Ronnie is finishing up his fish chunk and starting to circle in toward Gracie.
Ronnie finished his fish chunk about 7:45pm and sidled up to Gracie’s side. Sandy was on other side and there was a brief alert, with an osprey flying over water in background. Sandy decided to go back to eat and then George flew in with a clawful of seaweed. He moved some furniture and, I think was angling for some fish but Gracie said to get lost. Busy night at the old homestead! Ronnie took off; George took off; Sandy is passed out from being so full; Gracie asked if Sandy wanted anymore then took off with what was left of fish…..
How’s this for a metaphysical reach along with some wishful thinking…..the recent , and returning, visitor is a reincarnation of the little one that didn’t make it…..I know !!!……..but it makes me feel better
it’s 6:19pm est 3 birds in the nest. I’m assuming it’s Gracie in the middle between her two chicks. Can’t see what exactly is going on, their on the right edge of the nest with their backs or sides to the camera. I’m guessing Gracie bought home dinner and their both trying to get their share. But that’s a guess.
Glad to see the camera lens stay clean. I thought lucky aiming was the reason for a while. However, I think as the chicks became older they learn to make an effort to keep their next clean. They appear to make an effort to get to the edge of the next before they “let go”. I never saw the parents squirt in the direction of the camera. Wish my grandson wish my kids had pottery trained this quickly!!!
A little tiny fish was just delivered around 3:55 p.m. EST, which was snatched from the parent by Ronnie. But that’s okay. Sandy sure had a lot to eat thus far today. That makes up for yesterday.
I am sure the baby begging was Sandy- Ronnie doesn’t beg she takes the food she wants. Not berating her because we have had to watch their survival instincts from the beginning. I hope Sandy will be able to learn to fish as quickly as Ronnie might since we know she won’t share. Will they bring their catch back to the nest to eat or will George be teaching them to roost in a tree to eat? And I saw on the CC Maryland site that they destroy the nest after all the osprey leave. I don’t imagine that is the plan for this nest since accessing this nest if so difficult. It had to do with bugs and parasites living in the nesting material. I have always seen osprey nests left intact all over the island so I assume that CC just chooses to destroy it. But I just read that they “mate to the nest” not each other then there is no nest to mate too for the CC Maryland osprey. So when George and Gracie return do they spruce up the nest? I guess Gracie just does some rearranging and redecorating. Watch out Martha Stewart!
Today looked like a good day to be an osprey; bad day to be a fish.
I can’t tell which one is Sandy and which Ronnie. Is it just me?! lol Oh well, I enjoy watching my ospreys. 😉
For Monica – I feel the same way. Right now there is one chick in the nest, and he/she either looks sleepy or depressed. I love the ospreys, and cannot wait until they return next year.
Elaine – that’s funny. Do ospreys feel depression?! lol I figure she was very sleepy. Whenever I see the one chick all alone, I assume that’s the female. But, honestly, I just can’t tell who’s who. I’m not always on here; so, I rewind and end up missing on the live stuff. lol Oh well, just enjoying the family until they all leave. 🙁
For Monica – After my last response I heard chirping, and I scrolled up to the site and Gracie flew into the nest with a fish. The chick became so excited. Now both chicks are in the nest. What a wonderful sight.
More fish for the family, but only Gracie and ?Sandy in the nest. ?Sandy must be very hungry, because he/she is begging for more (I am not sure the chick is Sandy or Ronnie).
Osprey the ultimate fisher!
When in FLIGHT these beautiful birds can reach FLYING speeds of up to 30 – 40 miles per hour.
When DIVING towards their shallow swimming “catch of the day” they can reach DIVING speeds up to 80 miles per hour.
Once they have spotted a fish of their choice while they are flying high above the water they will go into their high speed DIVE, they then pull up just before their whole body would enter the water, leaving only their legs with attached magical talons, of course, entering the water and viola’ dinner. Ospreys do not dive into the water as other fish catching birds do. Osprey’s prey are shallow swimming fish and they have no need to submerge completely. Actually an amazing sight to see!
Katherine
Here’s an awesome photographer that captures the osprey action so brilliantly: https://www.flickr.com/photos/coastalconn/
Katherine? Is this my daughter Katherine?
Hello Coleen!
Wouldn’t that be nice, but my Mom is long gone!
But I’m thinking with a lovely name like Coleen, we most certainly may be sisters in the Celtic sense! In other words Coleen, I’m American by birth but 100% Irish in every way that makes me, me! Sometimes that’s good, others not so much! But I am extremely proud of my heritage. So, Tis Irish I am!
How about you?
Katherine
Katherine, I am German-French and live in Louisiana. My mother named me for her first grade teacher. I am the last of 8 children so perhaps she had run out of names. My mother is long gone, too.
Thanks for posting that information – just more to add to our knowledge. I also read somewhere (forgot exactly where) that Osprey can actually eat fish WHILE THEY ARE FLYING! they are so good with their talons that they can accomplish that feat! Wow, just incredible bird!!!!!
If you haven’t seen this already, go to ARKIVE.ORG to view their osprey fishing video. It was previously posted onto this site but it was a while ago. A thing of beauty…..
Looks like Sandy is making sure nobody steals her fish. 🙂
LOL!!!!
So glad to see three of them in the nest at one time. I will miss them when they all leave, but what a wonderful Spring and Summer this has been watching them grow and to be given the privilege to experience such a close-up view of their daily lives. Thank you to everyone that has made this possible!!!
Question to anyone out there:
I understand that there are numerous osprey nests located around the water in the same area as George and Gracie. It was so lucky for this nest that it was on a live camera and a rescue was made.
Is there any organization that monitors any of the others nests?
If this could happen so easily on this nest, it can happen to any along the shore.
Im sure there not at all monitered. maybe im wrong. But yea Im sure animals everywhere suffer devistating consequences of human trash.
Not sure about this particular area but there are so many on the south shore of Long Island in the middle of the bays that definitely aren’t monitored (and they are often filled with just as much trash as George and Gracie’s nest!).
I LOVE ospreyzone! THANK YOU to EVERYONE who made this live broadcast possible!!
I hope everyone saw or knows now that Ronnie and Sandy each had their own fish. Nice size. Holding onto it and feeding yourself is a skill that both got to practice. Full bellies. Mom even fed Sandy when she returned to the nest. Everyone should feel good. This started at around 10:00 am NY time and is still going on in case anyone missed it.
fish feast at 10:00am, 2 fish brought in 1 for ronnie and 1 for sandy, was enough to share with gracie
Was happy to see Sandy finally getting something to eat…started to really worrie abt her not eating..
OMG, me too! I had to stop watching. Just logged back on to check on Sandy and saw these past few posts. Phewww!
7;57 PDT Can someone tell me what kind of fish were brought to the nest about 10;45 this morning ? Are they fishing right out in the water that we see from the camera ? And why do the fish always appear to get bigger after a storm ?
It may have been closer to 10;20.
Bunker-proper name Menhaden, it’s a bait fish for Bluefish and Striped Bass. I would guess they are fishing nearby.
Oh my! Just seen to Osprey flying over my office! Have never seen one in person before. What a wonderful sight!
Each chick has their own nice big fish at 11 am ET. Nice to see them self-feeding. Gracie is not on the nest.
Enough fish brought in for both babies!!!Thank goodness!!! What a beautiful day on Eastern Long Island!!!
Finally around 10:25am (approx.) Sandy gets his/her own fish. Hopefully the fish keep on coming in. When first fish arrived, Ronnie, as usual, the aggressor just grabbed it and wouldn’t let Sandy anywhere near. The rule is, if fishing is poor, anything that comes in is going to be Ronnie’s, Sandy just is not aggressive like Ronnie!
Both chicks having a fish each.
10:46 A.M. Thursday…each baby has its own fish and are feeding themselves. Great progress. I wonder if they caught the fish themselves….
No, mom & dad dropped the fish off. You can scroll back the live feed and watch it all unfold 🙂
Two chicks in the nest, each eating their own fish. George has been a great provider this morning!
Lawdy!!!!!! These 2 Osprey are well taken care of. They have very attentive parents and neither are starving!!! These comments are killing me!! Stop the madness!!!! Both have an entire fish to themselves right now, which is ample nutrition to last pretty much all day.
What awesome parents! After watching Sandy not getting any part of the fish that Ronnie is devouring, George (I think it was him) took off and caught another fish for Sandy! This time, Sandy made sure to protect her breakfast from bro. I’m so glad she has her own big fish! She must be so hungry.
Also, Paul, thanks for the Osprey store. I will be checking it out today and getting at least a hat. This website sure has grown! You might not have time for your regular job! But, hopefully, this one is more fun.
10:26 Eastern – Little over a half hour ago Gracie brought in a nice size fish which Ronne immediately grabbed. When Sandy tried to take a bite, Ronnie gave her a good peck and she backed down. About 10 minutes later George brought in a large fish which Ronnie also tried to grab. But Sandy finally said “Not this time” and took hold of the fish. They both had a good meal.
10:00 Gracie brings in a headless fish and one of the chicks grabs from her. She spends a few minutes and leaves.
George brings in a good sized live fish and gives to the 2nd chick.
So good to see that both are having breakfast this morning.
10:22 — I think it was Sandy in the nest for the longest time alone. Then Ronnie showed up. After both napped for a little,,,,Either George or Gracie brough half a fish…Sandy swipped right up and made sure she was keeping it to herself. Off flew Gracie or George and few minutes later back with a whole fish. No need to share, they each have their own. Yay, they are eating in peace.
Sandy, actually it was Ronnie who grabbed the first fish and wouldn’t let Sandy have any. He even gave her a wicked peck for trying to take a bite. So when George came by with a bigger fish and Sandy stood her ground and kept Ronnie from taking that fish also, I was applauding her moxie. Poor thing must have been starving.
Jara, thanks for recognizing who is who this morning. ..I kept rewinding to see who it was.
It’s 10:23 am est both chicks have a fish but I didn’t see who brought them in. Did anyone see the delivery? Did either bring their own?
It’s about 10:10 and both chicks have their own fish. Think that it’s Sandy seems a little put off because her/his fish is still trying to jump for safety! ” Mom, Dad what’s going on here?”
Thurs. Aug. 13 @ 10AM
after reading thru some of last nite’s postings, I’m relieved to see that BOTH chicks now have a huge fish to eat!! Each does a good job of holding on to it, I noticed.
Belated congratulations to the individuals whose bird names were selected. It did add a special something to this site to have that contest!
In the meantime, with all the drama in the osprey nest: the siblicide, the worry over food, the dramatic rescue ; I hear the constant little chirping of the sparrows near by, as if to say,
“everything is perfectly fine in my little world!!”
10:08 am I just came back in and both Ronnie and Sandy have their own fish… Yea! They will both eat today.
Great to see George this morning bring 2 fish, one for Ronnie and one for Sandy for breakfast 🙂
Great to see both chicks have a fish a piece
9;49am EDT,Gracie just brought in a fish; Ronnie grabbed it, Sandy tried to get some, Ronnie won’t hear of it! Poor Sandy hasn’t had much to eat at all lately, worried that she will not have the nourishment she needs for the next step. Wondering why Gracie & George are not taking care…hmmmm…
10;20am, EDT- Just checked in again with a huge WHEW!! So happy to see each of them eating their own fish! Thank goodness- I’m doing a Happy Dance for them!!
Well, finally breakfast around 9:50 a.m. EST. I think it was Gracie who flew in with a fish. Naturally, Ronnie hogged it and Sandy tried to get some but he wouldn’t allow her. Hopefully, there will be some left over for her.
I think Sandy is a homebody — content to stay in the nest a lot more than her sibling. I just worry about her because she is not as aggressive as her brother (or whatever).
Try not to fret about what might seem to be the neglect in feeding by the parents or if one is not being feed as much as the other. Getting back to the subject of Mother Nature, what is happening is actually supposed to happen. Gracie and George are withholding food from fledglings to encourage them to leave the nest! You can see the fledglings now in the nest learning how to hold fish in their talons and feed themselves. The parents staying away from the nest for long periods of time is actually important. The embedded Osprey DNA (instincts) tells the chicks to “fly” about 51 or so days after hatching. They don’t take flying lessons. Mother Nature provides that skill. They will be fed less and less by the parents. Osprey DNA plus a little hunger will kick in and the youngsters will be hunting fish on their own. If mom and dad keep providing fish they will never learn, practice and develop their hunting skills. It’s a long, lonely, solo trip to South America and they need to be experts at plucking fish from water and the training is starting now.
For hunting fish, Osprey can shut their talons in 2/100 of a second. They can shake off water, like a dog, in mid air. They are the only Raptor that has a rotating outer toe that can grasp a fish from the front or back. They possess spicules (rough barbs) on their talons to grip slippery fish. They are the only Raptor with a rotating outer toe enabling them to turn a fish in their talons headfirst while flying which aerodynamically reduces wind drag and resistance in flight. They can fly up to 80 m.p.h. Adult Osprey on the average are 70% successful in catching fish with each dive.
On the subject of mating for life, I believe I owe an apology in that I was not more specific and clear. Defining the term “mate for life” in the animal world could be viewed differently from different quarters. I’m more critical in the specific parameters used to define “mate for life.” There are only about dozen animals that fall into that strict category. These are birds, fish and mammals that are virtually inseparable and truly in monogamous day to day, year -round relationships – as they say, 24/7. They hunt, feed, sleep, travel and breed always as a pair and will jointly defend their territories. In just about every case they will fight to the death together if being attacked. Yes, in many of these species, if one mate dies the other will take up with another. But this kind of intense physical unity, this level of bonding and single commitment to each other in life’s purpose is the criteria I’m using to define “mate for life.” I believe Mother Nature understands the precarious life of the Osprey and has found away to keep them. We are sharing in their happy reunions and their meeting new lovers while perpetuating their species right here on Long Island. Gracie and George will not be with each other at all over the winter once they leave Long Island. Maybe they will mate next year, not a 100% sure thing. Please don’t think less of Gracie if she takes up with another or if George starts hanging out in the Hamptons with some other hot looking Osprey.
I wanted to thank everyone for their educational comments as well as the play-by-play action around the nest throughout this season. I don’t post much but read all the comments and will miss this site once our family leaves the nest. And many thanks to Paul and Tommy for hosting the Birdashians this summer. I will also wear my cap and t-shirt with pride.
To add to the mating debate, I did read in David Gessner’s book, Soaring with Fidel, that it’s the commitment to the nest, not the mate, that binds the couple together.
Well…is someone going to teach a bird to fish? Because waiting around for food delivery apparently isn’t working well today.
I just don’t understand the extreme change in family dynamics where poor Sandy is being starved. Does the parents want him/her to die?
My mistake, the males leaves after teaching the chicks how to fish and provide food.
Do Ronnie and Sandy ever sleep? I have my first look of the day about 9am here 4am your time and can just about see them perched on the edge looking keen to start a new day.
They may be starting to sleep sitting up while perched since that’s all adult birds do.
Sandy has been alone since last night and no food has been brought to the nest since yesterday and she didn’t get any. She is looking very weak to me she doesn’t even seem to have any energy to call out for food. Not a great start for today.
7:40 AM Sandy leaves nest..What was Sandy’s first flight off nest? Helicoptering doesn’t count Ha…
Is Sandy dying? Her call is getting weaker…
At one point someone said osprey fishing was instinctual, not taught. If so, why isn’t Sandy going fishing? She certainly
enjoys flying…is she too weak now? Although I haven’t seen Ronnie bring in a fish yet. When do they begin to fish? Thanks.
Have been watching 7:00 played back to daybreak. Sandy has been all by itself…sounds like somebody perched on cam..I thought Dad was to take over and teach them the art of flying and catching food? When will this begin?
Only one bird in the nest this morning. I believe it is Sandy. All alone and no fish. Hope George and Gracie show up with breakfast. Sandy is screaming for food.
My Heart is breaking for Sandy :.-( awwl
Both chicks back in nest briefly 8:10 am One looks like it had been diving for food possibly as it was shaking off and feathers looked wet
Just on chick in nest after dark…poor baby. I hope the other one is on perch. Or Gracie… They have to learn to sleep perched sooner or later…
Mary’s earlier comment really touched my heart. I wish George and Gracie good health in their travel to South America for the winter, and hope both of them will return next year to rebuild their nest. I also wish Ronnie and Sandy good luck in their lives as they continue to grow and mature to be future parents. I am beginning to suffer from empty nest syndrome when I don’t see any of the family in the nest. Right now I only see one chick. I don’t know if it is Sandy or Ronnie, but he/she looks very lonely and somewhat depressed. I have not seen any fish brought in for a few hours.
Who said they went to south Africa in the first place, it’s to early, Gracie should be leaving soon but George by instinct, stays to feed the chicks and makes sure know how to fish and than the chicks leave and he leaves last.
I know how you feel about the feeling of empty nest syndrome….sad. We have to keep positive thoughts that their parent’s teachings will help them grow into mature, happy adults – just like we do when our’s leave the nest!!! 🙂
Well, tomorrow is another day Sandy.
The swans are there in the background again! 8:10-8;!5…. I have really enjoyed seeing the other wildlife and the boaters.
Hah, tough to type with a cat on my lap! That should be 8:15.
There has been no food brought to the nest since that 3:35 delivery and Sandy is still in the nest alone right now. She has topped screaming, I think she has given up. It is heartbreaking yet we have to accept this. After Gracie leaves and George is in charge who is going to make sure Sandy eats? Yet Gracie hasn’t been looking out for Sandy the last 2 days. I watched an interview with the director of the CC in Maryland who explained that osprey mate for life.When an osprey returns to the nest and if mate doesn’t show up (no timeframe given) he/she will take on a new mate and if the original mate shows up the new mate will leave. Not sure if always peacefully because they found a dead male in a nest once. So hopefully George and Gracie both survive the round trip and arrive about the same time so there won’t be any drama from the outset.
Where’s my paint brush. Spectacular!
Chick in nest…I’m guessing Sandy, Making a lot of noise and I thought he was lonely, but I heard another voice, seemingly from the perch.
I plan to some reading over the winter about osprey. From what I’ve seen already, even researchers have differing opinions. Perhaps different “communities” of osprey have differing habits as to returning mates or it could be personal choice. There doesn’t seem to be any definitive answer. Even this site brought up discussion as to whether Gracie is the female in the 2014 highlights. There is a marked difference in appearance on her” necklace ” and other markings. I would like to hear the opinion of an expert as to whether a bird’s markings would change as it matured over a year’s time. For myself, I prefer to think that last year’s beautiful love story led to this year’s hard-fought-for successful “marriage” between the same two birds.
I’m so excited to be reading that the babies were named. I’m so excited as we share the same name. My birth nane is Sandra. I will miss them so much and will be thinking of them on their future journeys. Sandy needs to step up her game.
Okay, now I have to comment again regarding mating for life. Once again Phil you may be in error! Is it possible that you misunderstand the concept of “for life”? This does not mean that these birds, any of the ones that you mentioned ie: Swans, Eagles etc., mate with one bird and one bird only! It does not mean that if a pair are together for years and one passes they never mate again with another for the rest of their lives . It means that all of these birds have one mate for as long as BOTH of them are alive. When one passes they, by natures plan, seek out another mate. This is most definitely natures plan. If any of these birds mated with only one mate for life for the purpose of assuring the survival of the species, and did not mate with another if a mate passed it would not be long before a species would become extinct . As we all know nature is harsh at times and death and tragedy happen but nature is also frighteningly and beautifully intelligent and has things covered. I have to comment here that most species become extinct due to man! Also, Phil, I have to bring your attention to the many, many eagle nest cams and their histories and ongoing lives and families that are proof that if one passes a new mate is sought out! Check these out they are awesome and their families and drama season happens before the Ospreys start so you can watch them without missing the Ospreys!
Katherine
The fish that Gracie brought in about 3:15pm….I’m guessing Sandy was the first chick back to the nest and was fed first because when the second one showed up he muscled right in so that would be Ronnie.
The fish that George delivered…maybe 4:45-4:50pm….both chicks in nest with Gracie so Ronnie first one to dinnerplate. They were feeding on right corner making it difficult, but when Sandy edged in on Gracie’s right, it appeared that Gracie made some movement in his direction and I could hear the little satisfaction chirrs he makes: however he didn’t get much before Gracie took off.
I truly enjoyed reading Phil L’s comment but every single publication available for reading about these wonderful and amazing birds DO classify Ospreys as mating for life. Some proof positive is that each and every Osprey nest cam that is positioned at an established nest site and that has been watched and monitored for years report the return of “mates” year after year. These sites are so well watched and monitored that it is always noted when one mate of standing does not return and a new one is present! This wonderful “Osprey way” is why these nests have Stanley & Iris, Harriet &Hal, Rachael &Steve , Frankie & Johonnie and of course George & Gracie and Audrey & Tom! I have to apologize here if I may have omitted the names of your favorite couple, it’s not on purpose I just may not remember them all! There are many more “couples” here in the u.s., England, Wales, Scotland, Romania, Canada and I’m sure the list goes on and on! This very “paring” adds to our human love and understanding for these wondoroue birds and their “families”!
Katherine
Well said, Katherine, about mating for life, except for our very own Gracie and George. After looking at 2014 highlights, I believe that George is at the site again, but Gracie is definitely new this year. As a matter of fact, there were two females with nrcklaces last year, but the last one had a truly magnificent necklace.
Hello Jeanne !
I’m glad you enjoyed my post!
But I did write that these beauties will seek out a new mate if one of them do not return to the “home” nest. I say “home” nest because it is in their nature (DNA) after fledging and migrating for the very first time they will remain in their nice warm “summer home” growing and gaining strength, knowledge and the ability to “be an awesome osprey” for approximately 2 years, then their “call home to mate” kicks in and they will migrate towards the general area wherever they were chicks! They then seek out a mate and a nest site and begin their own family saga. Some have been documented starting nests and families within less than a mile from their very own hatch nests, even doing fly by’s and drop in’s to their “birth nests”. This new couple begin the back an forth of nesting and migrating with both returning “home” year after year to meet, mate and nurture once again. If, for whatever reason, one does not return “home” he or she will seek out a new mate and the cycle will continue, just with a new participant!
I find thes birds absolutely amazing and never tire of watching them! Glorious nature at work! Thankfully Osprey Zone makes that easy and fun!
Katherine
Jeanne, sorry I left out a very important factor when I responded to your comment!
I neglected to include (too much to say and mind and hands don’t always work together Ha! Ha!) that after their two year summer vacation they migrate to “home” but they DO NOT MATE YET! They will do the migration cycle without mating until they are at least 4 or 5 years old. It is when they reach 4 or 5 that they first mate and begin natures work!
Katherine
As I stare at the empty nest, I am reminded of my own empty nest to come- I will take my twin daughters to college next week. They also have the dominant/submissive roles that the birds have. Amazing how much the nest mimics human life. I have learned so much from watching (or should I say -“over-watching”) these birds. Yes, I need to join OWA- my family, friends, colleagues all are SOOO tired of me talking about, watching, and worst of all -listening- to these birds. When the nest is shut down, I can start on my other obsession -football!!!!
Sandy needs to get Aggressive.
So true, I worry about him (or her) once he leaves the nest for good.
I am very sure that Sandy hasn’t had much to eat today either, she is in the nest right now screaming for food (scroll back to 5:45 EST). I know it is Sandy because she won’t be screaming for food if she had eaten at 3:30. Ronnie just arrived(about6) so if fish shows up now she still won’t get much if any. They are both calling for food now.
I don’t think Sandy got anything to eat from the last fish delivery about 3:35. She was screaming but Ronnie and Gracie were eating. Gracie doesn’t seem to want to feed her, maybe it is her way of forcing her to me more aggressive with Ronnie to get her to share. Yesterday was awful there were 2 fish in the nest but Sandy only got a piece of skin from the fish Ronnie hadn’t eaten and what I found interesting was that Gracie took the rest of her fish away with her. Sandy had almost no food yesterday and this afternoon is no better. I think last poster was incorrect in stating both chicks were eating I saw Sandy away from Gracie and Ronnie at about 4, she wasn’t eating or being fed. I could be mistaken but Sandy is always odd bird out when it comes to food so I doubt itwas Ronnie standing alone screaming. I wish they weren’t eating so far over to the right side it is not visible there as to what’s happening. I am going to be a basket case the time I see Gracie flies off one day soon and doesn’t return as I will be as each one leaves. I am especially worried about Sandy and I hope she is well prepared when the time comes for her journey.
Hey Mary that was a great post it touched my heart my sentiments exactly
Yes Patty, sad to see them go, and now to wonder how they will fare in their busy lives ahead. We can only wish them strength as they mature and travel. Mother Nature knows better than us though… Good thoughts 🙂
Just logged on and the first thing I see is a long white leg stretched out across the nest! No more baby leg with huge feet! Time 5:30pmEDT Too funny and also sad that they are growing and learning so that they can leave soon…..
Just after 6pm….scrolled thru 4 hr previous to see a lot of empty nest,, sad…. I did see one fish brought in by Gracie and another delivered by George ..Both chicks were in at various times for both fish, so hopefully both ate.
Just saw all 4 of the family in the nest at the same time. A bit crowded. Love it!!