Author Archives: maryannsteggles

I went to the UK as a Commonwealth Scholar in 1990 and received my PhD from the University of Leicester in 1993. After three decades of university teaching, I retired to devote my time to the study of raptor behaviour. I am particularly interested in Ospreys and am working on a long term project on third hatch survival and siblicide in these raptors. My blog is a result of a fascination with my local wildlife and the desire to encourage others to love and care for birds! I live on the Canadian Prairies and prior to the pandemic travelled a lot. I am questioning the use of aviation fuel at the moment as we all strive to help our planet. My early research was in politics and art including British public statues exported to Southeast Asia and Vietnam Resistors that contributed much to Canadian ceramics. Books and articles were published on those subjects over a period of 3 decades. Now I am working on books for children so they can learn about the challenges our raptors face.

Sunday in Bird World

16 August 2026

Good Morning,

What a beautiful day on the Canadian Prairies. We are going on an adventure today to see whether any hawks are migrating over the Pembina Hills. It has been several years since we went to the Crossing to see them. Wish us luck!

I want to start with some fantastic fishing news in the osprey world. Saturday at the Dyfi nest of Idris and Telyn, five very large fish were delivered in under an hour. Yes, you read that right.

At the OBX osprey nest in the US, a kind landowner tossed a fish that had been delivered but fell off the platform back to the awaiting juvie. Well done, whoever you are!

Always looking for returnees. It can be hard even with a Darvic ring. A 2014 male fledgling from Loch Doon, Shalloch, was signing at the Penwhapple Reservoir in Girvan. He was first seen as a returnee in Wales in 2016. Well done Loch Doon.

There is news that Sol has flown from the adoptive nest but has not returned in nearly two days. The adoptive father has been seen with fish but no juvenile. We hope Sol is eating elsewhere. It is always worrying when they do not return to the nest!

Cutie pie Gimbir is delivering lots of prey to Diamond in the scrape.

Sadly, the third hatch of George and Hope at the Osprey Environmental Centre in Griffin, Australia has died of siblicide.

SK Hideaways Videos, Week of 8 August 2026
Today’s update is dedicated to Jackie and Shadow. While we continue to follow other nests, our hearts and minds are with our beloved Big Bear couple. Jackie was the rock solid foundation of Big Bear ~ we naively believed we had many more years to witness her strength, beauty, bravery, and wisdom. Such a loss shakes us to our core. It brings to light realities we’d rather not acknowledge and breaks our hearts. But rather than crumble, we take a page from Jackie’s book. We stand back up, brush ourselves off, and carry on ~ albeit in baby steps. This week has been and combination of profound grief, heartwarming remembrances, and occasional denials. We each have our own grieving process, but one thing we share is that we are, indeed, grieving a most beloved and inspirational eagles, whose life we have had the privilege of watching. Fly high, dear Jackie, and rest in peace.
~ SK Hideaways


FOBBVCAM Eagles  ~  Big Bear Valley, CA ~ Shadow, Jackie (dec. 9 August 2026), Sandy, and Luna (last seen on camera 23 July 2023)
Courtesy FOBBVCAM | Friends of Big Bear Valley
Nest Cam:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE
Wide View Cam (Cam 2):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41eq4VzCYc4
Live Recap & Observations:  https://bit.ly/4wGjwVg

KD1 & Shadow Visit Nest Together (2026 Aug 13)
Shadow & KD1 met on the nest in the afternoon, after KD1’s dawn visit. They both seemed comfortable, but we cannot know what impulses they have or whether they will become a pair when mating season comes toward the end of the year. For now, we observe and learn, as we will our hearts to heal from the hole Jackie left in them
Video: https://youtu.be/MkgTQBBC_SI

Morning Serenades and Afternoon Meet-Up with Friend (2026 August 9)
After morning serenades by Shadow and a sub-adult (likely KD1), the eagles left the roost tree and perched separately. Shadow surveyed the habitat from the Lookout Snag before departing for his morning eagle activities. KD1 returned to Twin Pines a few hours later, where Shadow soon joined the sub-adult ~ each on their own branch. They both departed early afternoon.
Video:  https://youtu.be/XyNnd3p6nLU


San Jose City Hall Falcons ~ Monty & Hartley
Courtesy San Jose City Hall Peregrine Falcon Cam | Predatory Bird Research Group
Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBSxPjy5sow
Ledge Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pp9TisLmLU
Roof Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQLhmV6bP6o

Monty Lures Hartley to Nest for Bonding ~ Tries 3 More Times Unsuccessfully (2026 Aug 14)
Hartley and Monty spent time in the nest area this morning. Monty has a certain technique for luring Hartley into the nest box for bonding. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. And sometimes, he surprises us.
Video: https://youtu.be/_I1zjNkPeaA


Sydney WB Sea Eagles ~ Australia ~ Lady, Dad, SE37, and SE38
Courtesy Sea-EagleCAM@BirdLife Australia Discovery Centre, Sydney Olympic Park (https://www.sea-eaglecam.org/video.html)
Nest cam also at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nw4pdgy3-U0

SE38 Hatches ~ SE37 Puts Head in Shell ~ Lady & Dad’s Family is Complete (2026 Aug 14)
Like SE37, SE38 hatched in the wee hours. SE37 seemed to want to hatch again, sticking their head in SE38’s half shell. Ultimately, they both mugged for the camera, leaving fans weak in the knees with cuteness overload.
Video:  https://youtu.be/QfxN_k_qH24

Welcome to the World SE37!!!  (2026 Aug 13)
SE37 toiled for 20+ hours to make a perfect zipper around the middle of its egg to hatch at about 4:08 A.M. Sydney time. While Lady rocked the eggs ~ looking as though she might be trying to help SE37 out ~ Dad “paced” around the nest waiting for the seaglet to arrive. Hoping SE38 joins the party soon!
Video: https://youtu.be/iswZi-9VZMU

SE37 HAS PIPPED ~ Beak Seen ~ SE38 Possible Pip (2026 Aug 12)SE37 is working on its grand entrance as it pecks away, showing its beak and making great progress. There is a mark atop SE38, which might also be the beginning of a pip. Good luck SE37 and SE38, hope to see you both soon.
Video: https://youtu.be/1gUHaF2o7nc


West End Eagles ~ Catalina Island, CA ~ Isla & Lee (newish maybe couple)
Courtesy Institute for Wildlife Studies | explore.org | West End Eagles Cam Ops 
Nest Low Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfuqjSNXZ14
Other Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aT1adgYSfbcqI
Overlook Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCGyi19a6J4

Beautiful Sub-Adult Brings Breakfast to Nest + Some Channel Islands Eagle History (2026 Aug 9)
There have been several sub-adults in the West End territory over the past few months. This day, a real beauty brought a whole fish to the nest for breakfast and returned in the afternoon to finish it. 
The eagle restoration project on the Channel Islands began in 1980 ~ going from zero eagles on the islands to 14 breeding pairs that hatched at least 16 chicks in 2026. A remarkable success. While enjoying the 4 nests for which the Institute for Wildlife Studies and explore.org sponsor livestreams, we can thank these organization and their partners for their tireless work in bringing such a wealth of eagle life back to these beautiful islands.
Video:  https://youtu.be/VewZm2uvOkY

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Saturday 15th August 2026
The Nest Two cam is still out and a site visit has determined that replacement parts are needed which with luck will arrive in the next few days. Off-cam observations by local resident LizB show chicks were seen on or near the nest and on some occasions were eating fish. Nest One cam is still functioning, barring the usual daily 6+ hour morning outage, but no Ospreys came to the nest when the cam was on line. However, reports from LizB showed an Osprey perched nearby for several hours, at a guess Aurora, but no fish was seen. The Nest One tally remains at two hundred and one, and using Steve Quinn’s formula for estimating Louis’ catch, the Nest Two total moves up to four hundred and twenty four. Nest One did have some feathered visitors, not the big ones we’re hoping for, but some little Coal Tits and Bullfinches. Huge thanks to LizB for her off-cam reports, and to the folk at Woodland Trust and 

Wildlife Windows who are doing all they can to get Nest Cam Two up and running again. A reminder of the difficulties of maintaining a livestream in a remote area is in the bonus section. The weather was mainly settled today but at the time of filing this report (midnight) it’s raining and heavy rain is forecast overnight, with a low of 12°C, changing to light rain throughout tomorrow with a high of 17°C.Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/A-jPXC-j5X8 N1 Little visitors arrive – a family of Bullfinches 15.55.06 (zoom)https://youtu.be/ZaS8yA0TFyM N1 More little visitors – Coal Tits this time 16.56.09
Bonus watch – just what it takes to bring us the window into the private lives of our Osprey family:https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam/behind-the-scenes/


You’re invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and everyone’s welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

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Flowers from all over the world are being sent to the entrance of Fawnskin Park in California for Jackie.

All is well with the little sea eaglets 37 and 38 at the Olympic Park WBSE nest in Sydney.

‘B’ sent me a great e-mail with lots of links to videos and information you will enjoy. I am including it in its entirety – thanks so much, B.

“Hi Mary Ann — I thought you might be interested in this 3-minute YouTube video from the local Bay Area ABC station, which covers the story of the rescue/release of the two condors that were trapped in the Ventana Wildlife Society’s condor sanctuary as it was threatened by the Big Sur fire: https://youtu.be/WSb3GKTESh0?

It took a smoky 3-hour drive on dirt roads with scattered fires alongside to rescue the birds.  Important work, nicely done.

I’ve still got the Jackie blues.  We have lost a number of the birds we watch.  (Don’t forget Aila!)   It goes with watching birds in the wild, where nature is full of threats. But Jackie was special, and this one hits especially hard.

This video tries to explain why Jackie’s death hurt so many people: She tries to explain why Jackie’s death hurt so many people: https://youtu.be/SKee7r6ZtmA?

What she says is true, but I would still say it all can be summarized by saying Jackie was very, very special  for very, very many people for very, very many different reasons.  

I’m so thankful for all of the rescuers and all of the caregivers and that Jackie is now out of pain.  And hopeful for a positive future for Jackie’s faithful mate Shadow.

Thankful, too, that Moon Camp was saved, which helps that positive future for Shadow and all future Big Bear eagles.  I don’t think Moon Camp could have been saved if it weren’t for the community of fans that built around Jackie and Shadow and for all the donations that came from those fans.  And very thankful that included in those fans were the Brockmans, whose huge donation took the fund-raising drive over the top.”

One last check in – can’t forget Iris, Wensi, and Clarke.

Wensi fish calling right before the Saturday ends with Iris sleeping on the perch.

Take care, everyone. Did not intend to post today but did – I am promising myself a day off so maybe it will be tomorrow. See you soon.

Thank you to B, SK Hideaways, Geemeff, all the FB contributors with their stories and images. Thank you also to those who write investigative reports and the owners of the streaming cams for without them we would not know what is happening on the nests.

Jackie…continued

15 August 2026

Jackie and Shadow have been on my mind. It isn’t the first time we have lost a raptor that we loved. I adored Samson and worried for Gabby. I have missed Akecheta more than anyone could imagine, and then Thunder. Joe was very special to me because he openly mourned the bringing of the rat to the nest that killed Peace and Love. And then there were the ospreys. The death of Laddie LM12 broke my heart, and when I thought that Louis was no more, it broke further. They are clearly more than birds on a screen to us!

A prayer for Jackie from an unknown source:

We pause today to remember Jackie, the magnificent bald eagle whose spirit touched so many hearts across the world. Thank you for the grace, strength, and fierce devotion she brought into our lives, reminding us of the wild beauty of your creation. 

We give thanks for the dedicated people at the Ojai Raptor Centre who offered her comfort, safety, and tender care in her final days. Bring peace and solace to all the heartbroken human caretakers and watchers who mourn her passing. 

Wrap her loyal mate, Shadow, in comfort as he adjusts to life without her, and let Jackie soar now on strong, unburdened wings, free from pain and illness, resting forever in your eternal peace. 

Beloved Big Bear bald eagle Jackie passed away on August 10, 2026, at the age of 14 after a weeks-long battle with a severe illness at the Ojai Raptor Centre. Her dedication to her mate Shadow and her resilience captivated millions worldwide through the Friends of Big Bear Valley live nest camera. Jackie will remain in our hearts. Will we ever forget the sound of her chortle? I don’t think so.

Healing takes time. As Alison points out, thank goodness those cute little sea eaglets hatched healthy and sweet.

Just a few more tributes and then I will stop and Jackie will live in my heart, your hearts, and on the memorial wall, bigger than life.

More musical tributes across YouTube: https://youtu.be/Aj2PIKWLnjA?

Another: “On 5/1/26 Jackie beelined to the lake to pull a fish for her eaglets. This video shows her buzzing by my camera and taking the fresh catch up to the nest. The song in this video I wrote a couple of months ago in hopes and anticipation of Jackie’s eggs hatching and an eaglet or two surviving. We all hope the two young eaglets make it to fledge and 2026 goes down in history as another successful one for Jackie & Shadow. Photography is from ground and lake level by Big Bear local Trisha Dale Green. Song created by Trisha Dale Green using SUNO.” https://youtu.be/gz7TQ-ANqeA?s

Interview with Sandy about Jackie: https://youtu.be/GyrxzROQb3A?

Another musical tribute: https://youtu.be/i46r75ojLlE?

‘A’ from Melbourne: “Hearts heavy with the tremendous grief at Jackie’s loss, thank goodness the hatch of the precious sea eaglets at Olympic Park comes as we need something this beautiful to remind us that the bird world keeps turning, emotionally and literally, and that no sadness can overwhelm the joy of a little fluff ball with a shiny black beak and the most adorable tiny pink feet. Mind you, I am very glad to be reminded just how fluffy and roomy Lady’s underfluffies are for two fuzzy hatchlings – it really is FREEZING in the early mornings in southeastern Australia at the moment, worse down here in Melbourne than in Sydney of course, but it’s great to see the dear little creatures snuggled up in their sea eagle doona. Meanwhile, I did adore the celebratory honking duet from Dad and Lady against the background of the ubiqitious currawong chorus. How can two such lovely raptors sound like an old engine on its very last legs?”

‘V’: “My first experience with watching any raptors was when I accidentally happened on a live video of Spirit hatching. Since then, I have become addicted to eagles, osprey and Albatross. Thank you, Jackie, for the memories.”

‘JM’: “This is heartbreaking news. I’m so thankful to have been able to watch Jackie and Shadow over the last couple years. She is with Sandy now.”

‘BA’: “Oh Mary Ann, tears are flowing… there are no words……”

‘L’: “This is heartbreaking news. I’m so thankful to have been able to watch Jackie and Shadow over the last couple years. She is with Sandy now. 🦅💔😔”

‘L’: “May she fly high over Big Bear and Reat in Peace in Heaven with all the others who have gone on before her. I think what hurts me the most is that she has passed away on my Birthday.
When we left this morning to go out to eat I didn’t know about it till we got back home. We love and miss you Jackie and we will
Always remember you ❤️🦅🙏”

‘R’:”Bon Voyage, Jackie; safe sailing. You will be missed forever, but your impact on our nation and media outlets will long be remembered. Thanks for allowing medical specialists to care for you and learn more about your condition, so that they may help other raptors in the future. Soar to the highest heights and watch over Shadow to choose a mate wisely. 🦅🪹🪺”

‘M’: “😢 Soar high up in the sky.”

‘L’:”When Harriet from the Southwest Florida nest disappeared I didn’t grieve as much as I am over Jackie. Harriet was so much older, although it was shocking too, I accepted it. M15 had those little eaglets to raise and I focused on that. I’m feeling more sorrowful over Jackie than I have over any human. I guess that sounds terrible.”

CC: “Christine’s Critters Inc.

Tonight, people across the world are grieving the loss of a remarkable bald eagle, Jackie. Jackie touched millions of lives simply by living hers. She invited us into her wild world, and somewhere along the way, she became part of ours. We all followed Jackie and Shadow through so many moments of their lives. We celebrated with them. We worried about them. Most importantly, we collectively cared about them.

To everyone at Friends of Big Bear Valley and Big Bear Eagle Nest Cam, thank you for watching over Jackie and Shadow and for being a steward of their nest site. Thank you for sharing their lives with the world. You gave millions of us the opportunity to experience the wonder of wild bald eagles from wherever we happened to be. What you shared became so much bigger than a camera pointed at an eagle’s nest. You connected people to the natural world. Our hearts are with the entire Big Bear Valley community as you grieve the loss of an eagle who became such a beloved part of your lives.

To the entire team at the The Ojai Raptor Center we are thinking of you tonight. As a small raptor rehabilitation center in Connecticut, we understand how deeply it hurts to lose a patient. We know how much of yourselves you give to each animal. We know how fiercely you hold onto hope and fight for every possible chance at recovery. We are truly in awe of the extraordinary medical care she received throughout her journey. Your commitment to giving her every possible chance was evident every step of the way. Although the outcome was not the one any of us hoped for, she was surrounded by comfort and incredible love because of you. The care you gave her mattered. Our hearts are with every member of your team as you grieve this tremendous loss.

I always smiled when Jackie and Shadow made the national news. There was something incredibly hopeful about seeing the entire country follow along and grow to love these two wild bald eagles. Almost everywhere we go to present a wildlife program this past year, someone asks me, “Have you heard of Jackie and Shadow?” I always smile. Of course I have.

In many ways, Jackie and Shadow became my wild comrades in education. People cared about them, so they wanted to learn more. They learned what life is really like for a wild bald eagle. They also began to understand the dangers eagles and other wildlife face every day. Jackie and Shadow opened the door to conversations about wildlife that those of us in conservation work so hard to have. Jackie made millions of people care about bald eagles. She made them care about the wild places they need to survive. She made people care about protecting the natural world we all share. 

Just weeks ago, people came together to raise $10 million to save 63 acres near Jackie and Shadow’s nest from development. Land that was once destined for development will now remain wild. The connection people felt with Jackie and Shadow inspired action. It helped protect the habitat they depended on and preserve a piece of the wild for generations to come. Their story shows us what can happen when people fall in love with wildlife and decide the places those animals call home are worth fighting for. That is conservation. That is Jackie’s legacy.

Jackie was so much more than a famous eagle on a screen. She became a national ambassador for her species. She taught millions of people without ever entering a classroom. Her legacy will live on in the person who finds an injured bird and knows to reach out for help. She will live on in the person who stops to pick up discarded fishing line before it can entangle wildlife, or the fisherman who chooses to use only non lead fishing weights. She will live on in the hunter who chooses lead-free ammunition to protect eagles and other scavengers. And she will live on in the wonder in a child’s eyes as they watch an eagle soar overhead.

All because they knew Jackie and Shadow. 

Thank you, Jackie. Thank you for letting us into your wild world. Thank you for teaching us. Thank you for making people care for our natural world. Your wings reached farther than you could ever have known. 

May you fly forever free and watch over Shadow and your beloved nest site as their guardian spirit.”

‘J’: I can’t stop crying my eyes out. She was more than a bird on a screen.”

‘L notes about my query of the photo little Jackie in the nest with Ricky and Lucy’: “That picture was on YouTube, from Chanel 5, KTLA yesterday. An elderly man took it when Jackie’s parents was raising her. He said he had lived there for 20 years. Also, he said Luna and Sandy are still in the area. 

If I did it correctly, here is the link.” 

https://youtu.be/4cHVisPKRg8?is=cbjFtIPA9GC9NQwF

Wild Heart Ranch:

‘J’ sends unknown tribute: “I don’t know who wrote this, but it’s beautiful.

I’ve been trying to understand why losing Jackie has affected me so deeply. Why the death of a bald eagle I only knew through a camera can genuinely make my heart hurt. 💔🦅

I think it’s because Jackie represented a mother’s love to me. She gave everything she had to her babies. She sat through snowstorms and freezing temperatures protecting them, endured failed nests and loss, and still came back and tried again. She fought for her babies with everything she had.

When you’ve lost your own mom, watching something that represents that kind of love disappear touches a place inside you that never completely goes away.

And thinking about Shadow makes it even harder. He’ll never know why Jackie didn’t come back. I know animals don’t understand death or grieve exactly the way we do, but Jackie and Shadow were bonded. They built a nest, protected each other, survived storms and raised their babies together. Now one of them is simply gone.

Maybe that’s why so many of us are hurting. We aren’t only grieving an eagle. Jackie’s loss reminds us of our own. Moms, dads, partners, siblings, friends, grandparents and beloved animals—we know what it feels like when someone who was always there suddenly isn’t.

But Jackie leaves an incredible legacy. Her offspring will continue on, and generations from now there may be bald eagles soaring over Big Bear carrying a little piece of Jackie with them. Shadow will eventually continue on too, because that is the way of nature, even when our hearts aren’t ready for it.

For years we watched Jackie through snow, wind, heartbreak and triumph. We worried about her, rooted for her and celebrated her babies. Somewhere along the way, she became more than an eagle on a camera. She became a symbol of motherhood, resilience, devotion and unconditional love.

So yes, I’m grieving a bald eagle today. Because sometimes grief is simply love looking for somewhere to go.

Fly high, beautiful Jackie. 🦅💔 You fought hard, loved fiercely and gave everything you had to your babies.

Your wings may be gone from Big Bear, but your legacy will continue flying over it for generations.

You mattered, Jackie. More than you could ever have known.”

‘S”: “Marianne, it is with profound sadness that I tell you Jackie has passed. I’m sure your inbox is blowing up, but wanted to make sure you knew. RIP, Queen Jackie.”

Our hearts will heal but for now thank you to everyone who cared so much for Jackie – she wasn’t just a bird! She was so much more than that.

I am glad that Shadow is healing. The latest two videos about him and KD1. Perhaps he has found his new mate — or did she spot him first? https://youtu.be/-yUhTfLS3n0?si=gmYS-uV3bSs75wHD

Another one: https://youtu.be/2wZApsXwHck?

I am searching for a tribute or news from SK Hideaway’s who so dearly loved Jackie. Will keep my eyes open. In the meantime, thank you for all your comments. I have included some of them from various parts of the world. Take care. I will be back with you on Monday.

Thank you to all those who composed musical tributes or videos to Jackie, to each of you who loved Jackie and wrote from your heart, and to the two individuals who created videos about Shadow and KD1.

Jackie

15 August 2026

Good Morning,

I am only including two things today. I know that Jackie’s passing remains with each of us.

Here is the CBS LA news report on Jackie and Shadow: https://youtu.be/B2od9c1IlDo?

There is a new song dedicated to Jackie (get the tissues out): https://www.youtube.com/watch?

And another really beautiful song: https://youtu.be/kf_KdB9YddM?

Jackie was much loved. There are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of tributes to her. Look them up and be surprised. She was world-famous along with Shadow. Their antics and their persistence in trying to raise eaglets in the highest bald eagle nest in the United States will never be forgotten. I feel so grateful to have seen Spirit – the name suited her so well, Gizmo and Sunny, and lastly, that close pair, like they were twins, Sandy and Luna. Jackie gave us hope that good would come. We sat up with her through blizzard after blizzard, worrying as she kept her eggs warm. 62 hours without food once. The other number is the days that Shadow incubated (80) unviable eggs, wanting eaglets so much.

I will miss them as a couple. They were the best!

Thank you to CBS LA and to FOBBV for their camera and to ‘J’ for sending me the link to the new song.

LA CBS tribute to Jackie…late Friday in Bird World

14 August 2026

Good Evening Everyone!

We hope you had a good end of the week and that this weekend you take time to breathe and get outside. The summer is quickly coming to an end, and we can already see a tinge in the leaves across our back lane. Today, the birds were in a big flurry around 1500. The Crow family was all in attendance, along with the six Blue Jays – and hundreds and hundreds of sparrows of various types. We noticed a lactating grey squirrel, but it was not Dyson. Since the disappearance of Brock and the other cat, Charlie, we have also noticed a decline in the number of grey squirrels. Down by half. As I have mentioned previously, there is some concern that someone is using rodenticide. That deadly poison goes through the food chain – it can even kill the hawk that comes several times a week! Please do not use it, and if you know of others who do, don’t attack them but do educate them. So read up – there is lots of information on the dangers of this deadly poison on the Internet.

I want to thank everyone for their notes while you grieve, Jackie. She was so loved, and her influence has touched so many. I am grateful for the excellent care she received, from the first responders to the staff and volunteers at the Ojai Raptor Centre. Jackie died a natural death – and whether she knew it or not, she was surrounded by love. Tributes are still being made, and many want a permanent memorial to her at Big Bear Valley. Flower tributes have been left, and I know from your notes and comments that many people have a big hole in their hearts. Luna and Sandy are fine. I find it very interesting that Jackie stayed strong until they had left the area. As you know, raptors hide their vulnerabilities. Otherwise, others will try to take their position. At some point, however, when one is so very, very sick, that illness cannot be hidden anymore, and that is what happened to our dear Jackie. Shadow will be fine. He misses Jackie. He calls out for her, but no one answers. It is not breeding season, but like M15, he will need a strong mate to help him keep the Big Bear nest. It looks like the one female, nearing five years, KD1, is hoping to fill that spot. We need to send Shadow our best wishes just like we did Bella (NCTC), Connie (Captiva), Gabby (NE Florida) and M15 (SW Florida) – to name a few of the eagles who have lost their mates in the past five years.

CBS LA has a lovely thirty-minute tribute: https://youtu.be/B2od9c1IlDo?

I am delighted to report that one female osprey, Blue NC0, whose mate, Laddie LM12, died two years ago, appears to have found another nest and mate. She lost her nest at Loch of the Lowes last year when she failed to bond with the Dark Knight. She has recently been at the Alyth SS Substation nest that previously belonged to Harry and Flora. Harry disappeared, and Flora lost her nest (or that is what it appears). Clyde is the current male, and he has been bringing fish to Blue NC0. Loch of the Lowes and Alyth are approximately 18 km away from one another. I wish Blue NC0 the best.

I want to begin with Geemeff’s summaries and videos from Loch Arkaig:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Friday 14th August 2026

Today’s big story is the Nest Two camera being taken out by an electrical storm. Unfortunately, as it’s in a remote area, it’s going to take a while to restore service but it is being worked on, and luckily Nest One cam is still streaming live. Garry LV0 wasn’t seen today so his fish tally remains at two hundred and one, but Aurora 536 came to the nest and preened quietly for a few minutes before departing. Thanks to off-nest reports from local resident LizB, we know the chicks were around today both on and off the nest, and Louis was seen delivering fish. Fishing stats guru Steve Quinn has worked out a formula for estimating deliveries by Louis during the cam outage and the Nest Two tally has been raised to four hundred and nineteen. Dorcha has not been seen on cam since Saturday 8th and off-cam on Tuesday 11th. Meanwhile, all the main events of Season Ten are available on Woodland Trust’s playlist, details in the bonus section. After a stormy night, the weather was reasonably settled today but at the time of this report, midnight, it’s raining and due to continue overnight with a low of 12°C, changing to light showers with sunny intervals and a high of 18°C tomorrow.
Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/3abZkT-QbX8 N2 The moment the storm takes the camera out 04.29.31 https://youtu.be/e3GDrR-jrtc N1 Aurora arrives, preens quietly, no Garry so she departs 08.41.36 

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Thursday 13th August 2026 

Garry LV0 and Aurora spent time on Nest One today, and he brought her one fish, taking his tally to two hundred and one. The two chicks were on and off Nest Two being very competitive, squaring up to each other, slapping wings, pushing each other off the nest and chasing, and generally doing their best to get as much fish as possible. Louis only brought three fish, all flatfish, and Amber got the first two and Juniper the third. The Nest Two tally now stands at four hundred and fourteen. Dorcha wasn’t seen today, either on or off the nest, and it looks like she might have headed south – we wish her fair winds and plenty of fish and look forward to seeing her safely back next year for Season Eleven. The weather was damp and overcast, with Nest One shrouded in mist at times, and the damp weather is set to continue with thundery showers and light winds and a low of 16°C overnight, continuing tomorrow with light rain, a gentle breeze, occasional sunny spells and a high of 19°C.

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/Bwa5tZUn8gw N2 Amber’s waiting when Louis brings the first fish 11.48.59https://youtu.be/4C9DHUpEri0 N2 Amber gets the second fish as Juniper loses out again 15.09.25https://youtu.be/AL-CYDZL52M N2 Finally it’s Juniper’s turn and she gets fish three 16.09.41https://youtu.be/-LZhVieT–0 N1 Aurora’s calls are answered when Garry brings a fish 16.47.16

Everyone’s invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and you’re all welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

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Individuals throughout the UK (and elsewhere like myself) are fed up with the medieval practice on the shooting estates BECAUSE it leads to the gamekeepers poisoning, beating, and killing in the most bizarre ways the raptors that come and take a grouse for food. No one tells them they crossed a boundary – and to be honest the pheasants imported, the monies exchanged, never warrant the brutal killing of the raptors.

Reclaim Our Moors – protest walk against grouse shooting, Peak District National Park, Sunday 16 AugDownload

In the US, people are worried about changes to The Endangered Species Act. Audubon tells us all about it:

Conserving Habitat Has Always Been Central to the Endangered Species Act | AudubonDownload

As you are aware, I am a big fan of Knepp Farms and their Rewilding campaign. In their latest newsletter, they tell of the most recent introduction: “In our latest episode of the Knepp Wilding Podcast, butterfly expert and old friend Neil Hulme joins us to talk about the Knepp Wildland Foundation’s most recent reintroduction project – the black-veined white butterfly.  

Absent from Britain for more than a century, Neil discusses the specialist task of reintroducing a species that vanished this long ago and why we’re hopeful that this rare, striking insect will once again become a UK resident.”

The newsletter also brings up other issues such as the failure of national parks to provide safe environments for wildlife. There are other stories. Have a read.

News from Knepp National Parks or National EmbarrassmentDownload

Oh, you want cute. They look like miniature fuzzy snow persons! SE37 and 38 are adorable.

SK Hideaways has a cute video of the little sea eaglets. You also get to hear the duet! : https://youtu.be/QfxN_k_qH24?

Sadly, it appears that we will not have any Ervie babies this year. We saw him at the nest, but no female! Oh, let’s hope a female comes around. We love Ervie – and I can’t wait til he is a Dad.

Phoenix, from the Sandpoint nest, is doing well in rehab. He is said to be very, very feisty! He won’t leave his wing protector on…but this is good. He will be strong when he leaves care and goes back into the world. (A Bald Eagle injured Phoenix when he flew off the nest).

The females are starting to migrate in the UK. Blue 014 from the Pont Cresor nest in Glaslyn has not been seen since she had a fish on the Glaslyn nest on the 10th. Other females are helping the males fill up the chicks!

Take care everyone. Thanks for being with us. I keep saying I am going to take a day off. Maybe it will be tomorrow. I am hoping to get us on a little road trip if it isn’t raining all day.

Thank you to SK Hideaways and Geemeff for their videos and summaries of nest activities, to Knepp Farms for giving me hope for the future, to everyone who posted information and images on FB, to Ruth T for chasing down the latest raptor persecution news in the UK, and to everyone who owns a camera or posts news somewhere so that we know what is happening in the nests. A big thank you to CBS LA for a lovely tribute to Jackie.

SE37 and 38 hatch on the same day…Thursday in Bird World

13 August 2026

I am hoping that this is the week of ‘good’ news!

SE37 is white, fuzzy, and adorable. SK Hideaways has the hatch in the Olympic Park in Sydney! https://youtu.be/iswZi-9VZMU?

First feeding. You can also see the pip in the second egg. Come on SE38!

SE38 worked that pip really fast and both sea eaglets hatched within 24 hours. Fantastic.

Patience and Compassion have yet to fledge at the Glacier Gardens Bald Eagle nest in Alaska. They are so close. Just look at those hatch dates and remember the number 77 – a great day for fledging. They are sure gorgeous, fully feathered, and, let’s hope, very healthy! Patience (GG10) hatched on June 2, and Compassion (GG11) hatched on June 4.

Patience is 72 days old today.

Iris and Wensi wait for Clarke to bring breakfast. I didn’t see a delivery (perhaps I missed it). Later the pair flew off.

Waiting for breakfast at Poole Harbour!

‘J’ sent an update on Snow that they found:

‘

Maybe this is the way to stop the killing of the Hen Harriers and other raptors on these estates!!!

Top London chef shuns Red Grouse from large “factory grouse shooting operations” where birds of preyDownload

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Wednesday 12th August 2026
Garry LV0 and Aurora 536 are both still here – Garry brought a fish for Aurora which is officially fish number 200 for him, but with the nest cam being down for 6-8 hours daily, his actual total is almost certainly much higher. This time last year Aurora had already left on migration, last seen 28th July, she could go at any time so every sighting is to be treasured. Dorcha didn’t appear on nest cam again today, although an adult Osprey, more than likely Dorcha, was spotted by LizB yesterday perched near Louis so she is probably still in the area. Last year her final sighting was on 7th August but as this season started later than usual due to Louis’ late return, she might stay around for a bit longer. Her two chicks should definitely be here til at least the end of the month, fattening up and competing for food ready for the rigours of migration. Louis brought three fish for them today, and the Nest Two tally now stands at four hundred and eleven. The weather was settled but cloudy so today’s eclipse wasn’t visible, and the forecast is for light rain and an overnight low of 17°C, continuing wet tomorrow with sunny intervals and a high of 23°C.
Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/OlWuTsWZir8 N2 Louis lands on an empty nest and waits for a chick to arrive 05.50.57https://youtu.be/3ZQTarHD1Dw N2 Juniper’s waiting and gets fish two 11.04.53https://youtu.be/gInHcbLfsoE N1 Garry brings a fish for Aurora 14.16.18https://youtu.be/O-TvX8jBAXs N2 Juniper gets fish three and drives Amber off the nest 19.30.06

Everyone’s invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and you’re all welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

Phoenix is doing well in care and enjoyed a ‘bass’ dinner last evening after having flown and been chased and grounded by a Bald Eagle. Thank you to everyone who helped Keke and Kam’s only osplet this year at Sandpoint.Update: Sandpoint Osprey Nest Friends

Phoenix is in strong spirits today. Now that he is stabilised, we will proceed with diagnostics like X-rays and possible surgery to repair a laceration. He is on pain medication and feeling feisty. There are always unknowns when it comes to wild raptors, but we have high hopes. We will be sure to update everyone later this afternoon as we know more. Thank you to everyone for caring for the Osprey and all the local raptors! ❤

Good news coming from Tweed Valley. Remember the second osplet was removed due to aggression and potential siblicide. It was returned when strong enough to fight off the older sibling. So far, so good!

At Blackbush. This is hilarious. Please read.

Black stork news from Estonia.

Switzerland has long to have ospreys and their translocation project paid off this year with the first hatches!

Thank you so much for being with us today. Please take care – there is lots and lots of news coming in – it is hard to keep up some days! I will be back with you on Saturday evening. I am taking a day off! We were at the farm today to get eggs and veggies along with some beautiful flowers.

It was a wonderful day.

Thank you to Geemeff and SK Hideaways for their great work in providing videos and daily summaries; to those who post images and news on FB, we are grateful. Thank you to those who write about and track persecution against raptors, and to the owners of the streaming cams that let us look into the lives of raptors.

Wednesday in Bird World

12 August 2026

Hello Everyone,

The tributes to Jackie continue to pour in and your wonderful, heartfelt words have meant so much to me. I hope to include them in a short tribute to The Queen of Big Bear Valley once the aching goes away. She meant so much to us and motivated so many people. It is still hard to put it into words.

Celebrating in the Olympic Park as SE37 has its beak out and by the time I send this tomorrow, it will have fully hatched. Congratulations Dad and Lady! SK Hideaways has the video: https://youtu.be/1gUHaF2o7nc?

Lady can hear her babies wanting to hatch:

Migration is starting and Hawk Mountain has put out its first count. “The wait is almost over! Autumn migration returns to the Mountain this Saturday, August 15. As raptors begin their journey south, Hawk Mountain comes alive with opportunities to observe, learn, and explore. Enjoy the Autumn Lecture Series, free weekend programs, time at the lookout, or a peaceful walk on the trails. See what’s coming up and plan your trip!

As always, thank you for your support, and you can stay up to date on all Hawk Mountain programs and happenings at hawkmountain.org/events.”

If you live near Hawk Mountain, why not participate? Here are the details:

Autumn Migration Hawkwatch Begins

Several Counters Stationed at North Lookout in Autumn

Daily, August 15-December 15
9 am to 5 pm
Trail fee required for Non-Members

The Annual Autumn Hawk Watch begins August 15 at the Sanctuary’s famed North Lookout and is conducted daily, weather permitting, through December 15.

An average 18,000 birds of prey will soar over the Sanctuary’s rocky North Lookout, a 1,500-foot outcropping on the Kittatinny Ridge or “Blue Mountain.”  Each year we tally the number and type of birds that pass. An official counter and interpreters are on hand to point out and identify birds.

Visitors should bring binoculars (or rent them at the Visitor Center), something soft to sit on, and a daypack with water and snacks. Plan to relax at the lookout and spend at least an hour. Many people spend the morning, afternoon or even the entire day!

Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to learn more about hawk migration and enjoy this spectacle of nature!

Date & Time

August, 2026

15

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Daily through Dec 15

Location

North Lookout

We had a great Tuesday. Ann helped me with Don and together with Toby we went out to Wildlife Haven in search of a mystery. Lately there has been a Mississippi Kite in one of our parks. As it turns out, in 2014, a pair of kites made a nest and fledged young. One unlucky chick found its way to Wildlife Haven where it has been an ambassador ever since – Milan. Was Milan still alive? I had been at the rehab centre oodles of times, taking in birds, making donations, attending open house but I could never recall Milan. The cage was empty today but Milan is still very much alive. Inside away from the heat. We will double check on Open House!

Two Great Horned Owls were out, along with Majestic, and the two goofy Turkey Vultures – Gus and Leo. Gus and Leo will make you fall in love with Turkey Vultures, I promise. They are such characters.

Majestic.

Geese!

On our way home, we stopped in one of the developments just outside the City. I had been told by a former student, Selena Panchoo, that there was an amazing Latino bakery there. Her recommendation did not disappoint! Made on-premises- we could watch – the desserts were divine. A big plus was that, unlike most City cafes, Toby was allowed! The owner had owned a Cavalier at one time and fell in love with Toby immediately. They will certainly have our business.

Mango cheesecake – mango through and through and you can’t beat a Jarritos soda on a warm day.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Tuesday 11th August 2026
Some aggression was shown by the chicks today, especially over Louis’ first delivery, which was just a scrap of fish, but as the day went on and Louis kept delivering a steady stream of fish, the aggression died down. Louis brought eight fish, taking the Nest Two tally to four hundred and eight, and there was so much fish that even the marauding Hoodies got a share. They were out in force today, probably the same pair throughout the day, and even Louis had to put up with one at close range, while a bold Hoodie flew down next to Amber and grabbed a big fish from right beside her. However, as she had just received the eighth fish from Louis and both she and Juniper had bulging crops, it wasn’t the disaster it would have been yesterday. Garry LV0 brought three fish for Aurora 536 and the Nest One tally rises to one hundred and ninety nine. Noisy RAF jets caught on both nest cams disturbed Aurora and she left her perch on Pole Tree and flew over to the nest.

 It looks like Dorcha is still in the area, just not coming to the nest, as LizB spotted an adult Osprey perching near Louis behind the nest. Although it would be great to see her, with the chicks’ current aggro due to hyperphagia, that’s probably a wise move. The weather was settled and forecast to continue, with an overnight low of 14°C and a high tomorrow of 24°C.
Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/THyZ1Xc-YjI N2 First fish is just a scrap but the chicks fight over it anyway 05.37.02https://youtu.be/qf-pqHMMP74 N2 Louis waits on an empty nest for a chick to claim fish two 06.02.54https://youtu.be/66wY8eObpLI N1 First fish for Aurora is a frantically flapping flatfish 12.40.47https://youtu.be/ZV2_ovPhhoI N2 Amber’s  ready and waiting when fish three arrives 13.56.52https://youtu.be/gwdI5EpnoA8 N2 Amber keeps old fish three as Juniper gets fish four 14.19.34https://youtu.be/OHcUmXoIf3w N2 Juniper still has fish four and also gets fish five 15.10.43https://youtu.be/gxQEHIylHo4 N1 Aurora grabs a few bites of fish two before departing 15.47.36https://youtu.be/4E-dIkqMwYI N2 Louis brings fish six and chases off Hoodies 17.05.12https://youtu.be/BilLYiGOQnI  N1&2 RAF jets flypast both nests and disturb Aurora on Pole Tree 18.10.40 (zoom)https://youtu.be/2tYjw_SeLgw N2 Hoodies scarper as Louis brings fish seven 19.05.21https://youtu.be/AI9A_9sXt8U N1 Garry brings a third fish for Aurora 19.50.29https://youtu.be/wFRRo_54sN8 N2 Hoodie steals a fish from Amber but she keeps fish eight 20.59.02

Come and join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and everyone’s welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

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The Black Storks in northern Europe appear to have fledged.

My friend, Sassa Bird brings me news from Lativa about the birds in that area:



That is wonderful news. I have been following some nests in Estonia – and so happy that Urmas is feeding the storklets, as it appears the parents are gone.


Wensi is feisty! https://youtu.be/-BLS5TdUhWQ?

Wensi is, to me, very special. I don’t know if Iris, who is at a minimum of thirty years, will return next year to be reunited with Clarke and have other chicks. So I am treasuring every moment of them on the nest. They are on the big screen at our house -. I do adore this family.

Fledglings doing well at Clark PUD. Showing up for fish!

We have news that the only surviving osplet on the Osoyoos platform in Osoyoos, British Columbia is doing well and getting fish from the parents. The camera is down.

The osplet that was removed from the Tweed Valley nest due to thrashings and its old sibling not allowing it to it has been returned to the nest. Lots of fish gifts were left and observations show that the two are getting along and feedings are going smoothly. Well done, Tweed Valley and Forestry England.

Documentaries about a murder do not often have a connection with our raptors but in the case of the Edradymate Estate, they certainly do!

New documentary now available about Edradynate Estate gamekeeper David Campbell’s conviction for murDownload

I was going to check on the status of the condors and the Big Sur fire and ‘B’ sent me the latest link. This is what he writes, “Hi Mary Ann,

I’ve pasted at the bottom of this email the link to a San Francisco Chronicle article about the Big Sur fire, which is dated yesterday and appeared in the print edition of the paper today.  (I might be one of the last people who actually buys and reads the print edition of the Chronicle each day.)  

It is only the last two paragraphs of the article that address the condor issue.  To summarize those paragraphs, the article mentions that the fire has disrupted road access to the condor sanctuary, that Kelly Sorenson says the two condors confined there have gone four days without fresh food or water, and that Kelly is working with firefighters to open access to the sanctuary.  But what I like best is the final quote from Kelly:  “If for some reason they (the firefighters) are not able to do that (that is, open the access road to Kelly), then we’re prepared to hike up if need be.”  Yeah, you go, Kelly!

https://www.sfchronicle.com/california-wildfires/article/timber-fire-big-sur-highway-1-resorts-22383405.php

Signing off. Don is out with Ann and Toby and I are going to go for a nice walk in the coolish breeze. It is such a gorgeous day. Tomorrow we are going to the farm to get produce and on the weekend, I am hoping we will have one of those mystery car tours. The goal is to get Don out every day and for me to get out, even if it is a walk with Toby and then a nice cuppa sitting in the sunshine. We have – Toby and I – decided no housework today! Melissa is coming Monday and she will have her work cut out for her.

You will notice that I have not included any of the thousands of tributes to Jackie. I am hoping that you will continue to send me a note about what Jackie meant to you so that I can include it on her Memorial Wall and here in the blog. I hope to do that next week, so please send a comment about Jackie or an e-mail. The address is maryannsteggles@icloud.com I will only use your initial!

Take care, everyone.

Thank you to Geemeff for her daily summary and videos, B for the latest on the Ventana Wildlife Society’s Sanctuary in Big Sur, to Raptor Persecution UK for following the most horrendous crimes against wildlife, to Sassa Bird for her notes about the NE European ospreys and storks, to Hawk Mountain for their great tracking of the migrating birds, and to all the streaming cams and individuals who put information on FB and images. I am grateful.

Beau returns, Seattle trio fledge…Tuesday in Bird World

11 August 2026

Hello Everyone,

I know that we are all still taking in a world without ‘Jackie and Shadow’. I know that many of you were very attached to M15 and Harriet – everyone had their favourites but Jackie and Shadow symbolised persistence, resilence, and hope to me. Every year they struggled with their eggs and we sat and watched Jackie encrusted in snow and ice praying that the eggs would hatch – just please, let them hatch one more time. I was lucky enough to see Spirit, Sunny and Gizmo, and Sandy and Luna hatch at the Big Bear nest – with Shadow and his sticks and Jackie a devoted mother. Jackie will never be forgotten. She is loved by so many people around the world who, today, are still feeling lost and gutted.

Every news agency is developing a tribute to Jackie – she meant that much. https://youtu.be/4cHVisPKRg8?

Most people are asking if Shadow will get a new mate. Just pause for a moment. How many mates has Connie had at Captiva? M15 at SW Florida was Harriet’s mate and then F23, etc. That should answer the question.

This subadult eagle, KD1, nearly five years old, has been spending time. She is on the nest and then on the perch later.

Video of Shadow with his beautiful morning chortling and KD1. https://youtu.be/XyNnd3p6nLU?

The news that I hoped to announce on Monday is that Harry and Sally, the Seattle osprey couple followed by Ping Shen, have fledged three osplets!


“Here in Seattle, we have liftoff! I’m sure they’ve been flying for a day or two but I saw two of the three take lovely practice flights circling around the nest today. Seems fairly certain the third has also flown though I didn’t witness it today. Harry and Sally fledged all three this year! So wonderful to see, and to see this pair once more, after following so closely last year. I’ll continue to check in until they leave, but all good out here in the Northwest…”

There is some good news. In Cumbria, at RSPB Campfield Marsh, three osplets fledged. This is the very first time that ospreys have bred and the first time that osplets have flown from a nest at Campfield Marsh. This is fantastic news.

At the NE Florida nest of Beau and Gabby, Beau has returned. All of the cameras are now operational.

Waiting for hatch for the Olympic Park White-bellied Sea Eagles, Dad and Lady. I keep checking and I am not very patient. Judy Harrington has noticed a possible small pip through the membrane.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Monday 10th August 2026
Today’s main talking point is the extreme aggression shown by the two chicks as they competed for food, particularly with the first fish where Juniper suffered a sustained attack by Amber, being divebombed and struck repeatedly and then forced overboard. Both are ravenous, in the grip of hyperphagia, and while we can expect to see more of this behaviour, at later fish deliveries both chicks were on the nest without attacking each other. Louis brought four fish today, Juniper got the first and Amber the other three, so perhaps he will step up his fishing and have more six- and eight-fish days. The Nest Two tally now stands at four hundred. Dorcha wasn’t seen today, her last sighting was at 16.18 

on Saturday, but both Garry LV0 and Aurora 536 were around, Garry brought her a fish taking the Nest One tally to one hundred and ninety six. The weather was settled and should remain so, with light cloud, light winds, an overnight low of 11°C and a high tomorrow of 21°C.Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/0gDaRa0Tt2o N2 Huge fight breaks out as Juniper gets the first fish 1142.40(slo-mo zoom repeat)
https://youtu.be/iX41WsaOYlY N2 Amber’s waiting and gets fish two 11.56.22https://youtu.be/CrwvZ97vsBc N2 Amber gets the third fish 13.03.14https://youtu.be/X2A7PszFOp4 N2 Amber gets the fourth fish, Juniper loses out again 14.50.38https://youtu.be/E57ODE9Ou8w N1 Garry brings a fish for Aurora 15.17.58


You’re invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and everyone’s welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

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There is concern growing for the Big Sur Condor Release area as wildfires are encroaching. From Kelly Sorenson:

August 10, 2026
Dear Mary,On Saturday, the Timber Fire began burning in the mountains above Big Sur and has already closed access to our California Condor Sanctuary. Firefighters continue to battle the blaze in extremely rugged terrain, and we are monitoring conditions closely.
 
Although our staff cannot currently reach the Sanctuary, we’ve immediately shifted into the emergency response plans we’ve developed over many years of working in fire-prone landscapes. Our team is actively evaluating conditions and preparing, if necessary, to safely release California Condors 868 and 340, who are currently recovering from lead poisoning in our on-site release facility.
 
At this time, neither condor is in immediate danger, and any decision to release them will be based on conditions at the Sanctuary and what is safest for the birds. We have planned for situations like this, and our staff is in close communication with fire officials and our agency partners should conditions change.
 
Wildfire is one of the realities of conserving wildlife in the rugged landscapes of California. While we can’t control the fire, we can prepare for it, and that’s exactly what we’re doing. We’re grateful for the firefighters and first responders working to protect Big Sur, and we’ll continue to closely monitor the situation.
 
We’ll keep you informed as the situation develops. In the meantime, you can watch the Sanctuary and follow the condors through our live Condor Cams.Read Condor (340) and Condor 868’s full bios California Condors 340 and 868 recuperating from lead poisoning inside our Big Sur Release Facility on August 10, 2026. 

Thank you for your concern. We appreciate your support and will share another update as soon as we know more.
 
 
With gratitude,


Kelly Sorenson
Executive Director

Please keep everyone in the area of wildfires and all the wildlife in your prayers and send them positive energy. We have fires burning in Canada and they are growing in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia.

This image has been circulating all evening. I do not know who to thank as it was shared by so many, but it is an image of Jackie as an eaglet in the Big Bear nest with her parents.

Good advice.

Breakfast has not arrived. Is Clarke having trouble finding fish today?

In Estonia, Urmas is feeding the storklets fish baskets on the nest. Urmas ringed the male down at the stream with the fish baskets but the adults have had trouble foraging and he is being the fish fairy to their storklets.

Blue NC0 from the Loch of the Lowes, who lost her nest when her mate Laddlie LM12, died is on the Alyth SS osprey platform with Clyde. Now this is interesting. I am hoping for a pair bond before migration.

Thank you so much for being with us today. We are heading out to Wildlife Haven in about twenty minutes. It is part of the ‘get outside move’ for the remainder of the summer when the temperature cooperates. Please continue to take care of yourself. Jackie’s death has impacted each and every one of us in ways that we might not recognise. So take it easy.

Thank you to Geemeff and Ping Shen for their great contributions today. To those who post on FB with images and information, I am grateful. Also, a big thanks to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to follow the lives of our raptor families.

Jackie soars over the Rainbow Bridge

10 August 2026

The only news for today is a tribute coming in the coming days.

Heartbroken, but our girl flies free with no more pain.

Patient Update: Bald Eagle 26-519

It is with profound sadness that we share that Patient 26-519 passed away in the early hours of this morning, following more than three weeks of intensive medical care.

Over the past several days, her condition continued to deteriorate despite intensive treatment and the combined efforts of our veterinary team and consulting specialists. She remained critically ill, receiving oxygen therapy, supportive treatment, and around-the-clock monitoring in our intensive care unit.

Throughout her time at Ojai Raptor Center, every decision was guided by the available medical evidence, her welfare, and our responsibility to do what was in her best interest.

Her remains have been transferred into the care of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).

We know this news will be deeply felt by the many thousands of people around the world who have followed her journey, hoped alongside us, prayed for her, and supported the people caring for her.

Our team is heartbroken. It has been an extraordinary privilege to care for her.

We ask for patience and kindness as our staff process this loss. We are working closely with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and will provide a more comprehensive statement including additional information on her treatments and test results.

To protect our staff and community during this difficult time, comments on this post have been turned off.

To everyone who cared about Patient 26-519, thank you. Thank you for your messages, your prayers, your encouragement, and for standing beside our team throughout these past weeks. We are deeply grateful for the way Patient 26-519 brought people together through a shared love of wildlife.

Please take time to heal.

Thank you to everyone who donated for Jackie’s medical expenses and to all those, from the very beginning, who aided in her transportation to Ojai Raptor Centre. My biggest gratitude to those who cared for our dear Jackie and who sought to find out what was causing her illness. This has been a very difficult time for them.

Jackie’s packed cell count rises to 9%, 4th hatch fledges at Blackbush…Late Sunday in Bird World

9 August 2026

We had a fabulous day at the English Gardens – ice creams and a pup cup, too! The weather cooperated fully – blue skies, nice temperatures, and a sweet breeze. Everyone was hoping to catch a glimpse of hummingbirds.

Geemeff kindly sent me yesterday’s summary and videos from Loch Arkaig that went MIA on my computer. Thank you, Geemeff.

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Saturday 8th August 2026
Both of yesterday’s missing key characters turned up today, and both brought fish – Garry LV0 delivered one fish for Aurora 536 on Nest One, taking his tally to one hundred and ninety five, and Dorcha delivered a fish to Nest Two where both of her chicks were waiting, taking her season’s tally to five. Louis also brought fish, he delivered three fish to the nest, getting his toes bitten in the process and taking his season’s tally to three hundred and eighty eight. The Nest Two total now stands at three hundred and ninety three. It was wet and windy today, with strong gusts of wind that caused Louis on one occasion to have to come around again to land with his fish, but that didn’t stop a pair of Hooded Crows from invading the nest in the chicks’ absence, rooting around looking for fish scraps. They didn’t find much, those hungry chicks don’t leave a lot. The rain is forecast to continue, heavy overnight with a gentle breeze and a low of 12°C, changing to light rain tomorrow and a high of 17°C, with more ‘gentle breezes’ which tend to roar through the branches and shake the nests.  

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/khpjbDz2gI4 N2 First Hoodies of the season invade the nest 08.47.54https://youtu.be/5NlSTi1jkS4 N1 He’s still here! Garry brings Aurora a fish 09.42.33https://youtu.be/vF4vmFY53pQ N2 Amber pecks Louis’ toes before taking fish one 10.43.59https://youtu.be/4w0KU9Wfej0 N2 Louis has difficulty landing in the wind with fish two 15.53.57https://youtu.be/7lXVflUIVcQ N2 She’s still here! Dorcha brings fish three 16.18.56https://youtu.be/qHJ5KL72TdI N2 Juniper flies over from the Scots Pine but Amber gets fish four 18.59.04

Everyone’s invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and you’re all welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

The Stellar’s Eagle, who is a long distance from its home in Siberia, has been hanging around Newfoundland and Maine for a few years.

Screenshot

We must take every day at a time. Jackie’s red blood count has now risen from 6% to 9%. This is not the 30% it should be so she remains critical. Please keep sending her the best energy you have and the best wishes for her team to find the underlying cause of her anemia.

The baby at Blackbush Beach Osprey Platform in Prince Edward Island has fledged – congratulations to Mum and Dad who have done the impossible in a year of tragedy. They fledged four!!!!!!!!!

Now the siblings are not being friends (were they ever?) – as competition for fish arrivals result in some scrappy fights. It is all good. They will need these skills – the taking of the fish from another – in the world beyond the nest.

All four are really healthy – or so it appears.

Fish continue to arrive for Wensi at the Hellgate Canyon nest of Iris and Clarke.

Blackbush and Hellgate Canyon thrived. Clarke was able to overcome some adverse fishing conditions – thankfully- to provide for Iris and Wensi and himself. Other areas have human-caused issues that are killing all the osprey – namely the industrial vacuuming up of Menhaden.

There is the first egg for the Redcliffe Peregrine Falcons.

We will be looking for a hatch with the White-bellied Sea Eagles and in the coming weeks eggs at Port Lincoln and at Orange. And don’t forget – 367 Collins Street! We already have three little osplets at the Osprey Environmental Centre. The focus is shifting to the Southern Hemisphere.

Take care everyone.

Thank you to Geemeff for resending her report from yesterday at Loch Arkaig, to all those who posted information and images on FB, and the owners of the cameras where we view the lives of these birds.

Pip/Hatch watch for Sydney WBSE…Sunday in Bird World

9 August 2026

Hello Everyone,

We really hope that you are enjoying the weekend and that instead of being glued to the screens, you are actually outside listening to the birds! I have made it my mission to ensure that outside of sleeping, 50% of our time is spent outside. This includes just relaxing on the deck with Toby, listening to the birds in the trees and at the feeders. Don’s mood is much better, and that makes my life much easier! Tomorrow we are going out to Wildlife Haven for a picnic and to check to see if we can see Milan, the Mississippi Kite who became an ambassador in 2014. Until winter closes in on us, I hope that this routine can continue.

We are on pip/hatch watch at the WBSE in the Olympic Park in Sydney.

On Ferris Akel’s Saturday ‘tour’, he found the Ps on the Cornell Campus squeeing loudly for the adults to bring food. They are, by the way, very well fed! They were so loud!

The Ps are strong flyers. They appear to be in excellent condition.

Dorcha did not migrate from Loch Arkaig, but she did take a 34-hour spa break. Many of the females do this before starting to feed their chicks and themselves up for migration.

If you need to get caught up on the eagles and the eaglets – yes, there are eaglets, check out the videos from SK Hideaways this past week!!!!!!!!!!

SK Hideaways Videos, Week of 2 August 2026

FOBBVCAM Eagles ~ Big Bear Valley, CA
Courtesy FOBBVCAM | Friends of Big Bear Valley
Resident male: Shadow (unbanded) since May 2018. Estimated hatch year: 2014
Resident female: Jackie (unbanded) since September 2016. Estimated hatch year: 2012
Sandy hatched 4 April 2026, Luna hatched 5 April 2026
Nest Cam:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE
Wide View Cam (Cam 2):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41eq4VzCYc4
Live Recap & Observations:  https://bit.ly/4wGjwVg

Shadow Shares Twin Pines with Many Visitors ~ Keeps His Distance (2026 Aug 7-8)
Seems lots of the visiting sub-adults want to be wherever Shadow is. Three of them came to Twin Pines while he perched ~ all of them on lower branches. Shadow, the banded sub-adult, and another roosted there overnight. Shadow distanced himself whenever any visitor attempted to perch near him.  When he flew off in the morning, the banded sub-adult followed. 
Keep sending those positive thoughts to Shadow and Jackie in these unsettling times.
Video: https://youtu.be/uWsYElJ_Ph4

Shadow & Sub-Adult on Snag ~ Another Sub-Adult on Nest, Has Shadow’s Snortle (2026 Aug 6)
The drama continues in Jackie and Shadow’s habitat. A banded sub-adult joined Shadow on the Lookout Snag ~ he flew off within a minute. Later, a different sub-adult ~ likely a male ~ visited the nest for over a half-hour. This eagle is about 3 years old and likely male, given the size and higher voice. The visitor practiced his chortle several times while on the nest. He sounded very much like Shadow. 

This is an interesting time in Big Bear as many sub-adults and juveniles pass through the area. Most will likely move on within a couple months.
Video: https://youtu.be/Uh0ObVH6eQs
Shadow Roosts with Sub-Adult Overnight ~ Chats in A.M. Before Departing for the Day (2026 Aug 4-5)
Shadow stopped by the Cactus Snag before retiring to the roost tree. The sub-adult did the same a bit later. They remained there overnight. In the morning, Shadow chortle-snortled good morning and then zipped off to one of his summertime hangouts while the sub-adult remained in the habitat. So grateful for any glimpses of Shadow, though his summertime routine could make him even more elusive. As I view the habitat, I continue to envision Jackie back there ~ strong and healthy. 
Video: https://youtu.be/Zp5ELqUjQm4


Sydney White-Bellied Sea Eagles~ Australia ~ Lady & Dad (mated pair since 2016)
Courtesy Sea-EagleCAM@BirdLife Australia Discovery Centre, Sydney Olympic Park (https://www.sea-eaglecam.org/video.html)
Nest cam also at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nw4pdgy3-U0

Dad Not Shy About Asking Lady for Egg Time ~  Pip Watch Approaches (8 Aug 2026)
As always, Lady and Dad begin the day with a honking duet. Dad has never been subtle about his desire to incubate and this year has been no exception. With pip watch in progress for SE37 and SE38, both parents are eager to have a front nest seat to the ultimate hatch. 
Video: https://youtu.be/VwZuMcjzEp4

Trempealeau Eagles ~ Wisconsin ~ Mrs. T, Mr. T, TE6, and TE7 (hatched early April, fledged July 12)
Courtesy Raptor Resource Project | explore.org
Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bMrSm0Ap20

2nd Movement of TE6 & TE7 Symphony in Squee Major with Breakfish (2026 Aug 4)
As promised, TE6 and TE7 delivered a complete and quite lengthy 2nd movement of their Symphony in Squee Major. We were spellbound as they squee’d flawlessly through fish delivery, mantling, fish stealing, and consumption. They really are the consummate performers. Enjoy.
Video: https://youtu.be/K9MnUOqkGE8

TE6 & TE7 Symphony in Squee Major, 1st Movement w/ Intermission (2026 Aug 3)
TE6 and TE7 promised us music at dawn, but opted for a photo op instead. They promised a complete performance tomorrow. I couldn’t complain, though, as we were all gifted stunning views of these two gorgeous eaglets, thank to the fabulous Raptor Resource Project cam ops pros. Very grateful, indeed. 
Video: https://youtu.be/eAffr2dcQ5k

Sub-Adult Snags a Whopper ~ Adult Looks for Steal ~ Eaglets Explore (2026 Aug 2)
A sub-adult entered the territory and found a big fish on the shore. As s/he flew away with the catch, an adult flew behind and perched just above the sub-adult, apparently waiting for the youngster to present an opportunity for a steal. Scavenging and stealing is not just for juvenile and immature eagles ~ adults also use this survival tactic. The sub-adult did not slip up and the adult flew off, leaving the young eagle to eat in peace. 

Meanwhile, 4-month old eaglets, TE6 and TE7, are acing flight school and exploring their beautiful Trempealeau playground. While one lounged near the camera, the other explored. Cam ops was in top form following that eaglet on its adventure. 
Video:  https://youtu.be/sX9yOLYmj80
Eaglets TE6 & TE7 Get Breakfast ~ One Makes It Grab & Go (2026 Jul 31)


Mr. and Mrs. T’s 2026 eaglets are about 16 weeks old, having hatched on an alternate nest this year ~ one without a camera. They fledged 3 weeks ago and have graced us with their presence on the nest with a camera. On this morning, Mr. T (I think) brought a nice big fish for breakfast. We watch as one eaglet mantles and the other squees wildly, as we’d expect. What we didn’t expect was that the mantling eaglet took off with the fish. Clearly grab and go training is going very well for this little rascal. 
Video: https://youtu.be/k5p6vhUWfN0

Two Harbors Eagles ~  Catalina Island, CA ~ Cholyn & Chase (28 years old; mated pair for 23 years)
Courtesy Institute for Wildlife Studies | explore.org | Two Harbors Eagles Cam Ops
Overlook Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yx7RKxpyzQ
Eagle Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5T2eHM8tcI

Cholyn & Chase ~ A Lesson in Not Sweating the Small Stuff (2026 Aug 5)
At 28 years young, Cholyn and Chase have much wisdom to impart. Here are 17 minutes of Channel Islands royalty taking life as it comes ~ being in the moment. 

This was a special day ~ Cholyn and Chase were mostly inseparable and cam ops was right there with them. Hope you enjoy these moments of calm and take a break from whatever drama or trauma may challenge you today. 
Video: https://youtu.be/wpetZNAdRPY
Cholyn & Chase ~ 28 Years Young ~ Joined at the Wing for 23 Years (2026 Aug 2)
Cholyn and Chase spent the day moving from one favorite perch to another. Whether they were perched together or apart, they kept eyes on each other and chatted across the habitat. This beautiful couple of 23 years is full of vitality, spunk, and devotion to one another. Maybe that’s what keeps them young. 
Video: https://youtu.be/0hmn5ixc4WY

The little osprey that was removed from one of the Tweed Valley nest has been rehabilitated, has grown and is strong. He was returned to the nest along with some fish and both of the osplets were ringed.

What about the eaglet Snow whose nest collapsed at Traverse City, Michigan? Here is some news and also the plans to expand North Sky, where Snow was initially cared for: https://youtu.be/NaLfUp0ssG8?

There are areas in the world where the ospreys did so well this season. Rutland Water was one of those!

We are waiting for the fourth chick at Blackbush Beach Club in Prince Edward Island to fledge – the other three are doing well and fish are plentiful. When so many nests could only struggle to fledge one chick, with so many having no chicks survive if there was any breeding at all, Blackbush is one of the shining stars of the North American osprey 2026 season.

The chicks are amazingly cordial – they know more fish are coming. Food security not food stress.

C22 enjoying a nice fish at Charlo.

At Hellgate Canyon, Iris and Wensi slept at the nest – Iris on the perch and her beloved only osplet, Wensi, in the nest.

They were waiting for the breakfast fish from Clarke and he did not disappoint. No matter the weather or the water conditions, Clarke tends to bring in the fish! What a guy.

Mary Cheadle runs the most amazing fundraisers for Loch Arkaig and The Woodland Trust. This one is for the calendar. The information is below. Postage is higher outside the UK. There will be another ‘grand’ fundraiser with books coming up! I love to donate to help out – I am so impressed how much can be raised when the donations can be as little as 3 GBP!

Geemeff sent me her latest news and it has gone down some deep dark hole in my computer. Apologies to Geemeff and to you. I will send today’s report out later tonight.

Thank you so much for being with me today. We are so anxious to get outside and enjoy the nice weather. Those days of having heat domes and being stuck inside have been inspirational in getting out and enjoying nature.

Please take care! If you have any raptor news, please let me know. You can leave a comment – I do get around to checking those, but not nearly as often these days as I should. Your patience is so appreciated.

Thank you to SK Hideaways for those great videos, Ferris Akel for tracking down the Ps, to everyone else who sent me news or posted information and images on FB, and the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to watch the challenges our favourite bird families face daily.