Category Archives: Llyn Brenig ospreys

Tuesday in Bird World

20 May 2025

Good Morning Everyone,

The Victoria long weekend is over. People have gone to the greenhouses and planted their annual flowers and herbs. We now live in the hope that frost does not return!

Toby is doing much better. His switch is either on or off. There is nothing in the middle! Today Toby discovered The Girl’s water fountain. He loves drinking out of it instead of his dish. Yes! That makes my life much easier. And he even got to go on an adventure. Toby went in his pram to the greenhouse so we could pick up some red and purple fuchsia for the hummingbirds and some bright red Salvia. Once home we planted three different types of peas/beans: Latvian Soup Peas, Osayo Endo Pea, and a Kentucky Wonder Climbing bean. The cherry tomatoes are in big pots with frames along with the peppers. Dill and Rosemary are planted and all we need are to move the Hibiscus outside and plant some Japanese eggplant, English cucumbers, and maybe some of the small watermelons. Hopefully the weather will cooperate. I bought a new watering hose last fall and the hope is that it does not tangle around itself – it is not supposed to!

I should say that Toby was an angel both in the car and in the pram moving around the greenhouse. What a wonderful little traveller. Today I knocked on wood because he also doesn’t bark or whine. If he is on the sofa and needs to get down, he makes two faint little barks and I do mean faint. I could not ask for anything more – he loves his cheese and peanut butter, eats his kibble, and is about 97% accurate when hitting the bull’s eye on the puppy pads. Our friend ‘AK’ sent us an ad for scrunchies to hold back the ears. These should really help as his ears and legs seem to grow over night. I am hoping that they will help prevent water getting in the ear when he is drinking and maybe help with infections! So cute.

The Girls are doing very well. Do you remember when Hugo Yugo was small? It seemed that she was destined to stay small. Well, something happened. Overnight, she seemed to grow, and I do mean grow. She is long and tall, and I believe it is bigger than Calico overall!!!!!! I hope to take some better photos in the next few days, so you can see what I’m talking about. It is a shock. She is still the lovable baby of the group, regardless.

The relief in hearing about Akecheta’s survival has filled my inbox. Monday morning there were over 1900 letters with more than 1000 of them overflowing with love for A61, blue wing tag, male resident at the West End nest. Each and everyone of us hopes, beyond hope, that Thunder is with him. I will continue to ask: Why not? The experts didn’t think Akecheta would be near Ojai, California so why not have Thunder with him? She left her eggs (almost unthinkable for an eagle mother) and was not seen at the West End after the 28th of February. That was approximately six weeks after Akecheta’s injury on the 19th of January. It makes sense to me. Everyone wishes Thunder had a wing tag, too! But maybe someone will capture more images of Akecheta with a female and we can see if it might be Thunder.

Coupled with this unbelievable miracle was the sadness at the Golden Eagle nest of Spilve and Grislis. It is a rare exception that the second eaglet survives. Knowing that this is practically inevitable in this species, it is much better if the little one goes quickly right after hatch. We have, in the past, witnessed the second eaglet survive to the point they were getting juvenile feathers and then get starved or killed or both in that order.

If you watch, there is often a pattern. The adults will withhold food. Once the second eaglet is no longer, food arrives, like a reward.

More information: In golden eagles, siblicide – the killing of a sibling – is a well-known phenomenon, particularly when there is a difference in size or strength between the nestlings. The older, larger chick may aggressively attack the younger, smaller sibling, leading to its death through physical injury or starvation. This behavior is often referred to as “bill-stabbing,” where the older chick jabs its younger sibling. 

Here’s a more detailed look at siblicide in golden eagles:

  • Asynchronous Hatching:Golden eagles often lay two eggs, and the first-hatched chick is usually larger and stronger. 
  • Size and Strength:The larger chick may start aggressively attacking its smaller sibling soon after hatching, leading to its death. 
  • “Bill-stabbing”:A common method of killing involves the older chick stabbing the younger one around the neck or body. 
  • Obligate Siblicide:In some cases, siblicide can be obligate, meaning that the younger chick almost always dies. 
  • Survival:The larger chick’s survival is often favored due to the potential for more efficient resource allocation and a better chance of fledging
Wilson- Golden EaglesDownload

Many theorise that the siblicide in Golden Eagles is based on the gender of the first hatchling.

Breeding – Golden Eagle – Aquila chrysaetos – Birds of the WorldDownload

We have certainly noticed the difference in ospreys. There is a higher likelihood of siblicide if the first hatch is a female and is much larger and older than the third hatch. All we have to do is think of Solly or Zoe at Port Lincoln to understand this. There is, of course, the all-time issue of enough food for all the chicks and the ability of the female to manage the feeding of all.

Border Osprey News:

Border Osprey NewsDownload

Glaslyn: It would appear that Aran has, indeed, relinquished his nest to Elen and Teifi. I am glad that he is alright. Many times these raptors will fight to the near-death or death for their territory.

Llyn Brenig: We have sat mesmerised by the ringing of the chicks on all of the nests, whether it be an osprey, an eagle, or a hawk. Chicks are weighed, measurements are taken, and identification rings applied along with satellite trackers (sometimes). Genders are announced based on the measurements at the time. A colleague once told me “Don’t argue with the ringers!” They do not always get that gender correct. Olwen is a good example!

Hellgate Canyon Ospreys:

Union County Falcon chicks are ringed! Watch Sylvia’s video for all the action: https://youtu.be/JMxgasJZLT4? She comments: “It’s banding day for the 4 eyasses of Union County. The chicks are taken out one by one, put in a tote bag and taken downstairs where they will be banded and examined out of view. The inside cam is wiped clean and the igloo gets some new gravel inside. The torn greenery is also replaced. The crew returns with 3 females and 1 male. Unfortunately there was a big glitch in the stream and time gap. Three are already inside and the 4th comes out of the bag. They have a lot to say but eventually they calm down and recover from their field trip”

White Rock Eagles: The two eaglets being raised by the single mother are still thriving! Sandy Jo captured a recent feeding. It does include a live bird as prey so exercise caution if you might find this disturbing. https://youtu.be/fxTg8DNHXPU?

Trempeauleau Eagles: Another eaglet being raised by a single Mum. T3 is doing very, very well. There is a big fish waiting for dinner!

‘PB’ reports that it is going to be a wet day for this nest.

Denton Homes and OPPD Fort Calhoun Ospreys are in the line of a huge storm that is approaching as I write this (1900 Monday the 19th of May). The winds are really picking up. ‘PB’ advises that the storm chasers are in the area as the line of tornadoes approaches.

At 1930 the winds are really picking up at Denton Homes. You cannot see the swaying unfortunately. Mum is on the nest with the babies.

By 1955, the winds were roaring, and the sway of the tree could make even a sailor seasick. Hang on, Majestics. This is a bad storm. We need this nest to hold. Remember, Clive rode out Hurricane Milton by hunkering down in the nest. Many people are sending prayers and positive wishes to the Majestics.

Mum and chicks are shaking off the rain while it and the wind continue. The nest is soaked to its core. I hope the weight of it is not a problem.

‘PB’ says the rain should stop for both nests around 0300 – that is six more hours.

The nest held!

Foulshaw Moss: The second chick has arrived for White YW and Blue 35.

Heidi’s Nest Note:

Brevard County: The eldest chick is practicing self-feeding and doing some wingers.  The chicks are 41 and 40 days old. There is no doubt in my mind, chick 2 has thrived because of Mom catching those huge fish at least once a day.  That has made all the difference at this nest.

Heidi is absolutely correct. Many of the females resort to adding to the pantry and in almost every instance it has meant that a smaller chick has survived to fledge!

Geemeff Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Monday 19th May 2025

Daily summary Monday 19th May 2025

As I was preparing this report stating no fish today, Louis turned up with an unusually late first fish – just a tiddler, but Dorcha tore into it and polished it off on the nest while Louis stood next to her, not moving towards the eggs, and he departed soon after she’d swallowed the tail. His tally rises to ninety seven. On Nest One, Aurora paid a visit in the morning but Garry didn’t come to the nest today, although an Osprey was seen via LizB’s telescope eating fish in a tree near the nest, with another Osprey perched nearby. As only fish delivered to the nest are included in the fish stats, his tally remains at fifty eight. The weather was settled again and will stay that way until the weekend. If the forecast is correct, hatching could take place in the rain, but Dorcha is a very good mumbrella and should keep the the tiny chicks warm and dry.
Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 23.27.00 (03.14.45); Nest Two 23.50.27 (03.45.19)

Today’s videos: https://youtu.be/p8Yth43EMw8 N2 Sunset delivery of fish number one and only 22.32.21
Bonus history – how much do you know about the remarkable Kenneth Watkins who founded Woodland Trust in 1972?https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/about-us/working-with-us/our-people/our-founder/

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/4gYRLpvvSRs  N1 What startles Aila? 2020 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/rZ424IJOGjg  N1 Aila chases an intruder Osprey 2020

https://youtu.be/hgdwz6wYRbU  N1 A tiny toy deer grazes by the nest 2020 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/haFOLmUsLbQ  N1 Has Aila swallowed a fly? 2020

https://youtu.be/bcSQSQaeRGE  N2 Dorcha is disturbed by an intruder Osprey 2022

https://youtu.be/Ts2KcLv9_YQ  N2 Previous day’s unringed intruder female is back 2023

https://youtu.be/T7OstzxP05A  N1 Little songbird serenades as dusk falls 2023

https://youtu.be/7VpUP7pU9LU  N1 Who’s causing Garry LV0 alarm? 2024

https://youtu.be/73Bvt21AH5k N1 Garry LV0 returns bringing moss 2024 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/LLle366zcQg N2 Louis brings Dorcha a second fish 2024

https://youtu.be/dX1RADsAqbs N1 Garry LV0 returns a third time, brings more moss 2024 (zoom)

Latvian White Tail Eagles, Durbe County: Milda and Zorro’s chicks have names -Leo and Neo -and are going to fight over prey! https://youtu.be/XzgP_axFDsE?

Cornell Red-tail Hawks: O1 and O2 are the cutest little things. They are getting big and often peek out from under Big Red.

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

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

I would like to take a moment to acknowledge that Kelly Sorenson is celebrating thirty years with the Ventana Wildlife Society. Congratulations!

Thank you for being with us today. Please take care. We hope to see you soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, comments, videos, articles, and streaming cams that helped me to write my post today: ‘AK, Geemeff, Heidi, PB’, Wilson Bulletin, Cornell Bird Lab Birds of the World, Rosie Shields and Border Ospreys, Bywyd Gwyllt Glaslyn, Llyn Brenig, Montana Osprey Cams, Sylvia, Sandy Jo, Trempeauleau Eagles, Denton Homes, OPPD Fort Calhoun Ospreys, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust, Lizmn, Brevard County, Foulshaw Moss/Cumbria Wildlife Trust

Monday in Bird World

5 May 2025

Good Morning Everyone,

We have now had Toby at home for 24 hours (when writing this). I am shocked at how ‘chill’ this little bundle of joy is. He was only placed on his potty pads once, and he uses them all the time. He is eating and drinking well. I can hardly believe it. Toby thinks Hugo Yugo’s beautiful, thick tail is a toy. So far, only a hiss from Baby Hope once.

It is a lot of work; I will not make this sound easy. I have many ‘babies’ to care for now, but having these lovely souls surrounding me is also bliss. I cannot imagine little Toby anywhere else, not for a second. The Girls got on with their own lives later and were less curious.


I am looking forward to Toby being able to walk – short ones. Tomorrow we will try him in his backpack!

It is summer on the Canadian prairies. Today, it was 28 degrees C. Lilac buds are bursting open, and the grass is turning green before our eyes. We are now in a high fire warning because everything is so dry. We could use some of the rain that fell in some of the southern US.

We have done a little checking on some nests for you!

Loch of the Lowes: This is the first egg for the new resident pair, replacing Blue NC0 and Laddie. The female is LF25.

First egg for new osprey pair at Loch of the Lowes _ Scottish Wildlife TrustDownload

Big Red and Arthur at Cornell: 01 has its feeding and Big Red gets a break. Great little Arthur comes in and broods and incubates.

The rain stopped and started again in Ithaca.

There could be a pip in another egg. Stay tuned.

CW Nest, Wales: Following is being reported: “Brenig Osprey Project is at Llyn Brenig.

North Wales Wildlife TrustLlyn Brenig

Our friends, Friends of the Ospreys have sent us some great news regarding Roli KA5 2019 born Llyn Brenig. Diolch yn fawr!!!

Update on the Chris Wood nest

The last couple of weeks this pair have been defending the nest, they’ve established a territory keeping other ospreys away, the first few days they had a male Osprey from a nest not far away visiting and making a nuisance of himself, but all that looks to be settled now, they’ve built up the nest with lots of nesting material and everything is looking really promising for a successful season. Male KA5 2019 from the Llyn Brenig nest, an offspring of Blue 24 and Blue HR7 and female 7C1 2022 from a private nest in the Lake District, offspring from male 9C 2014 who’s an offspring of 11/98 and Mrs G from the Glaslyn nest.”

Kielder Forest: Latest updates.

Update on some nests _ Kielder OspreysDownload

Hellgate Canyon: A wet day for Iris and for the third egg. She looked down at her egg for a few seconds and flew off the nest. The Raven came and took the egg immediately. Iris is intelligent as are all raptors. She knows what happens. I am sad for her that Finnegan did not return – he would most certainly have if he could. No doubt he succomb to something and died or is injured and in care somewhere. Without Darvic rings we do not know.

I am also glad that Iris had a wonderful year in 2024. It was such a privilege to share her joy at having a mate that helped her raise two wonderful chicks, Sum-eh and Antali. That precious year lives on in them.

Send Iris positive energy. Raptors have feelings and I do ache for this wonderful gal, in the same way as I agonise for those females that find themselves sharing nests for whatever reason this happens, we do not know.

Trempealeau Bald Eagle Nest: Despite what I just said, so far this little one appears to be doing alright.

Glaslyn: Aran was photographed in the area. He has not been at the nest for a few days but has been seen chasing intruders. Teifi came to the nest and was on the perch with Elen. It could be the end of an era and the beginning of a new partnership.

To be clear, I adore Aran. He returned very late this year, and Teifi had already settled in. I am glad that neither has fought to the death. Aran has raised a total of 26 chicks at the Glaslyn ospreys’ nest. He has successfully raised two chicks with Elen in their first year together, and three chicks last year. Previously, Aran raised 18 chicks with Mrs. G.

This is the history of Aran at Glaslyn from the Bywyd Gwylld Glaslyn website:


Bywyd Gwyllt Glaslyn Wildlife

Bywyd Gwyllt Glaslyn Wildlife > Osprey Profiles

OSPREY PROFILES

Mrs G

Mrs G was first discovered breeding in the Glaslyn nest in 2004. It is also possible that she was the female osprey that a male was seen displaying to in 2003. It was mid-summer, the time we would expect to see two and three year old ospreys prospecting for partners.

Sadly she failed to return in 2023 for what would remarkably have been her 20th season breeding in the Glaslyn Valley.

How old was she? As she was not ringed we did not know her exact age and previous history, but we do have a few clues that might indicate her possible age. It is known that three-year old birds tend to arrive during April and two-year old birds tend to arrive from late May onwards. We know the exact date the chicks were killed in 2004 and can estimate their approximate age from their plumage. By working the dates back we can guess that Mrs G would have arrived approximately around the 20th April that year. Spot on for a three-year old bird. We know for certain Mrs G arrived on 22nd April in 2005, further supporting the case that she was a probably a young female. Inexperienced younger females also tend to have smaller broods, there were only two chicks in 2004 and only two eggs hatched in 2005, although three eggs were laid. We can therefore guess that Mrs G was probably hatched in 2000 or 2001, making  her  around 22 years old the last time we saw her in 2022.

How many eggs did she lay? At least 60 – we will never know how many she laid in 2004, but we do know there were at least two. 32 eggs with 11(98) and 23 eggs with Aran. The first five eggs in 2015 were either infertile or father unknown.

Breeding Years

2004 to 2022

Number of chicks produced

52 hatched
44 fledged

Apart from the two chicks that were killed in 2004, she also lost a chick in 2006 (the eldest, shortly before fledging) and 2007 (the middle chick at 16 days old – it had been knocked across the nest by a very lively mullet a couple of days before, maybe this was connected). In 2019 the middle chick died at 19 days old. A post mortem revealed that the cause of death appeared to be pneumonia and lung haemorrhage associated with lungworm infestation, together with acute blood loss anaemia. The report also indicated that the middle chick was likely to have been a female.

During 2021, Aran was injured during a storm just days after the first two chicks had hatched and as the third chick was hatching. He was unable to provide fish during this critical early period in their lives and tragically all three chicks died within a week of being hatched.

Mrs G returned in 2022 for her 19th breeding season in the Glaslyn Valley and following an early season ‘brief encounter’ with Z2 / ”Aeron” on the FotO Pont Croesor Nest, she was reunited with Aran to successfully raise a family on the Glaslyn nest for what was to be the last time.

Grand-chicks

130 that we currently know about!

Great grand-chicks

13 so far.

11 (98)

Ochre 11 was hatched at a nest near Aviemore in 1998, before being taken to Rutland Water in July that year as part of the ongoing translocation project. At Rutland he was a fairly dominant youngster, frequently taking fish from other birds in his holding pen. He was released on 7th August and took an hour to leave the pen. Surprisingly given his subsequent history, he spent several weeks around the vicinity of the reservoir. He was never spotted at Rutland Water as an adult.

In the mid-summer of 2003 local birdwatchers were sure they had seen a male osprey displaying and it was believed that a second osprey was around. It was too late in the season for breeding, but it was hoped that there was a prospecting pair present. In 2004 11(98) was discovered breeding at the Glaslyn nest with Mrs G, although the pair lost their two chicks when the nest slipped during an unseasonal storm. It is very likely that 11(98) was the male osprey that had been seen displaying to a female in 2003.

He wore his ochre plastic darvic ring with the number 11 until 2007, when he confused everyone by arriving back without it. He did not appear to like flounder and was never seen to bring one back to the nest. His favourite fish were mullet and trout and he could often be spotted fishing at Pwll McAlpine, along the Porthmadog Cob. He was a very distinctive osprey and it was always a welcome sight when he was spotted fishing from the cob.

He was last seen on 4th September 2014 when he was 16 years old.

Breeding Years

2004 to 2014

Number of chicks produced

30 hatched
26 fledged

Unringed male, arrived at Glaslyn on 30th April 2015. Given the name Aran because when he first arrived, looking from the Visitor Centre, he kept flying in the direction Nantmor and appeared to be flying towards Yr Aran, the mountain peak south of Snowdon. It was also an easy name for to pronounce for non-Welsh speakers.

Aran arrived at the time we would expect to see prospecting two or three-year old ospreys. His behaviour during his first breeding year suggested that he was not an experienced male and his plumage was not what we would expect from a more mature male. Matings were less frequent than we had seen with the old pairing and he appeared rather unsure of how to behave when left alone with the young chicks. For instance, when the chicks were around two weeks old, he made no attempt to feed them when Mrs G was absent for several hours chasing away intruding ospreys, even though they were food soliciting for the fish he had bought to the nest. He is a great provider of fish however, bringing back a large variety of marine species, such as garfish, flounder and sea bass, as well as trout and mullet. He proved to be more experienced in the mating stakes during his second breeding year, as he was also spotted mating with Blue 5F. In June 2016 he demonstrated that he was more confident with the chicks, by feeding them himself for the first time.

During a raging storm on the evening of 20 May 2021, Aran left the nest to fish for his growing family. We did not see him again until the middle of the following afternoon, when the storm was finally calming down. Aran did not have a fish and it was clear from his demeanour that something was not right. Mrs G had fed the remaining scraps of the previous days fish to the chicks during the morning and the very young chicks needed feeding urgently. We realised that Aran had sustained an injury to his right wing and he was clearly fatigued.

After seeking expert advice, we decided to provide supplementary fish near to the nest, in an attempt to give the young family a chance of survival. Sadly, our efforts were not successful and the three chicks died over the course of the following few days. However, the fish we provided gave Aran the opportunity to rest and recover and within two weeks he was catching small fish and another two weeks later he was able to catch reasonably sized fish once again. It was too late in the season for a second breeding attempt, but Aran and Mrs G remained together defending their nest from intruding ospreys. By the end of the season, we were confident that Aran had made a full recovery.

Although he was later returning in Spring 2022 compared to more recent years, he arrived back on the Glaslyn nest on 10 April and soon was re-joined by Mrs G for another successful breeding season.

Number of chicks produced

26 hatched
22 fledged

Geemef’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Sunday 4th May 2025

Today was all about poor Dorcha being bombarded with intruders on Nest Two. Following on from the quick hard Tawny Owl strike last night around 11pm, she then suffered three more strikes in the midnight hour in quick succession, in fact in under eight minutes. She handled it well and neither she nor the eggs appeared to be harmed, but then mid morning the nest was invaded by an unringed Osprey who practically landed on her back before she got rid of it. By the time Louis brought her a lunchtime fish, she must have been ready for a break. Louis only brought that one fish, taking his tally to sixty seven. Over on Nest One, Garry LV0 also brought only one fish which despite making several appearances on the nest only raised his tally by one to thirty six. Nest One also had visits from Tawny Owls but as it doesn’t have eggs needing protection, the visits are merely interesting interludes for the nest cam watchers. The weather was settled today with an owl-friendly overnight forecast of clear skies and light winds and full sunshine tomorrow.

Night cam switchover (day cam): Nest One 22.30.49 (04.23.57); Nest Two 22.56.59 (04.30.39)

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/AOxOLsyGJV0  N2 Dorcha gets hit by a Tawny Owl while tangled in moss 00.33.37

https://youtu.be/A8PwVgBjiAc  N2 Three strikes in <8 mins: 00.33.37; 00.35.21; 00.40.51

https://youtu.be/TXp42g5YDtM N2 Dorcha fights off an unringed Osprey 10.45.08 (slo-mo repeat with zoom)

https://youtu.be/u9NFDlW3qUM  N2 First fish arrives at lunchtime 12.36.07

https://youtu.be/eHuYQS2-jyc  N1 Fish number one is a whopper! 16.09.48

https://youtu.be/o4X388a7IK4 N1 Is this the first fish returning? Compare and contrast! 19.06.44 (zoom)

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/RZcdDsctW8s  N1 Stick-gate! Louis brings a silly stick 2019

https://youtu.be/MkeAZ4Rtyjw  N1 Arkaig Ospreys star with Chris Packham, Megan McCubbin & Holly Gillibrand 2020 

https://youtu.be/8937KrWsAvQ  N1 Aila stands on Louis’ tail 2020

https://youtu.be/E9pd_5HuvsU  N1 Hoodie chases Louis and his fish to the nest 2020

https://youtu.be/01RR3gk-KAo  WT season highlights 2021

https://youtu.be/MYwuD6jtpBA  WT season highlights 2022

https://youtu.be/CMPNawu15bo  N2 Louis is blown away! 2023 (slo-mo repeat)

https://youtu.be/HIbtIkk_ELg  N2 Unringed intruder lands 2023 (slo-mo repeat)

https://youtu.be/UYHOuHSAjdo  N2 Dorcha’s turn to show off her underpinnings! 2023

https://youtu.be/wFCI5B_bVPQ  N1 Garry LV0 arrives with moss, calling softly, who’s he watching? 2024

https://youtu.be/5zmxN6jpNNU  N2 Dorcha brings a stick and lands it on Louis 2024 (zoom)

Why not come and join the lively community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s friendly, free and everyone’s welcome:

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

Heidi’s Osprey News!

It was a very busy day in my corner of osprey world… seven eggs and a fledge:

South Cape May Meadows: 5/4, Congratulations to Hera and Zeus on their third egg.

Dahlgren:  Congrats to Helen and Doug on their first egg of the season, laid on 5/4.  This nest was quite unsettled for a long time this spring, and the first egg is about two weeks later than last year.

The Boathouse at Hog Island:  The first egg for Dory and Skiff was laid on 5/4.  Best wishes for them.

Kent Island, Chesapeake:  Audrey laid her second egg on 5/4.  Hoping for a better outcome this season for Tom and (new) Audrey.

Forsythe: Opal and Oscar have been in town for about six weeks. Their season has progressed very slowly and I’m not quite sure why… it wasn’t weather or intruders.  Opal laid her first egg on 5/4, more than three weeks later than last year.

Fortis Exshaw:  Congratulations to Louise and Harvie on their first egg of the season.  Louise laid the egg on 5/4 at 20:21. 

Moorings Park:  Ozzie, the only chick of Harry and Sally this year, fledged at 56 days of age.  It was a strong and beautiful flight.  It took her nearly 11 hours to make it back to her nest, and she looked exhausted.  Some of us were beginning to worry about her.  Congratulations Ozzie, well done!  Here is a video of Ozzie’s fledge and return to the nest: 

Cape Henlopen State Park: The new nest platform was installed over two years ago, but there has not been an osprey pair until this season.  Congratulations to ‘Miles’ and ‘Hennie’ on their first egg, laid on 5/4 at 17:50.  Everyone is thrilled!

[ FYI, please see my post in the Cape Henlopen Osprey Nest FB group, regarding the names for the Cape Henlopen osprey pair]

Thanks, Heidi, for that great report. Looks like things are beginning to happen!

‘PB’ sends us a fantastic image of the Fab Four at San Jose City Hall!

And of the White Rock BC Mum feeding her two eaglets. If this female could be left alone, she just might make Bald Eagle award lists for incubating alone and brooding, feeding, and hunting. Gosh, she deserves all our good wishes.

Thank you for being with us today. Please take care. See you soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, posts, comments, videos, articles, and streaming cams that helped me to write my post today: ‘Geemeff, Heidi, PB’, LOTL, Cornell Red Tail Hawk Cam, Kielder Forest, Llyn Brenig, Bywyd Gwylld Glaslyn, Trempealeau Bald Eagles, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust, SCMM, Dalhgren, Boathouse at Hog Island, Kent Island, Fortis Exshaw, Moorings Park, Cape Henlopen State Park, San Jose City Hall, White Rock BC D Hancock Wildlife Foundation

Monday in Bird World

28 April 2025

Good Morning Everyone,

Unless you have been on an island somewhere, you probably know that Canada has a federal election today. Most voted early, and please, if you live and vote elsewhere, do not mail in your ballot. Go and vote in person. You want your ballot to count. Take an audio book or a magazine or something, even a bottle of water to help you stay in line so your voice is heard. There are people to help you get there. And by all means, go early and vote. We had a 450% rise in turnout for early voting at our polling station!!!!!!!!!

I have been looking at therapy dogs and have finally found one that will be picked up next Saturday. For over a year I considered a rescue dog but it appears they have more trauma than i can deal with at this point in my life. Most of the ones here are a Shepherd mix. Instead, we will see which one of the little boys in the picture below picks us. I am partial to the one with the wide white stripe on the left facing you.

Update: Second egg at USK this morning.

NEFlorida: Gabby has brought a fish for Bodie. Bodie did not get any prey yesterday. Beau has not been seen for four days.

Geemeff sends us the daily summary for Loch Arkaig and The Woodland Trust:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Sunday 27th April 2025

Quiet today on both nests, just a routine day – both females called for fish and took them quickly away on delivery to their nests, and both males brought two fish each, taking their respective totals to 23 (Garry LV0) and 54 (Louis). The weather was wet and windy as forecast, and it’s raining as I file this report (22.15 GMT+1). The main difference between the nests is that one has a long established pair, currently incubating three eggs, while the other has a new couple in the early stages of pairbonding. Season Nine is off to a good start, fingers crossed it continues. The overnight forecast for the Inver Mallie area (https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2646094) is light rain and a gentle breeze continuing through tomorrow afternoon.

Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 21.44.03 (04.54.09); Nest Two 21.44.00 (05.00.50)

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/3hwN14iQOV4 Nest Two, fish number one 05.51.44

https://youtu.be/emNgeo_CV3A Nest One, fish number one 11.14.44

https://youtu.be/tghASM3eMek Nest One, fish number two 16.35.01

https://youtu.be/7RE-LA7Pdwo Nest Two, fish number two 16.58.46

Bonus guide to ‘nature’s fireworks’ which are out early: George WTS advises where and how to visit Scotland’s best bluebell woods – but please don’t leave the path!

https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/travel/14704931/scotland-bluebell-woods-top-spots

Blast from the past, this day in previous years

https://youtu.be/q_WwmwEsYBA  N1 Louis won’t let Aila have his fish 2019

https://youtu.be/p3aqIV2VHuo  N1 Owl attacks Aila 2020 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/OsGsdpzZVdY  N2 Owl strikes Dorcha as she guards her egg 2022 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/2RPYImn6HsQ  N2 Egg number two for Dorcha 2022

https://youtu.be/AtdFILU2Sm0  N2 Owl attacks minutes after the second egg 2022 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/E2U7-JML07w N2 Egg number three! 2023 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/jT3MesYLieY  N2 Hooded Crow intrudes on Dorcha 2023

https://youtu.be/-JTu8Cr1Guo N2 First fish does a flypast before landing 2024

https://youtu.be/MfQttkWT3Uk  N1 Garry LV0 leaves Nest One and perches on Pole Tree 2024

https://youtu.be/B-zPWF3ZiJg  N2 Takes two to tangle: Loch Arkaig Ospreys bump into each other 2024

Why not come and join the lively community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s friendly, free and everyone’s welcome:

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

Llyn Brenig: Has it stopped?

Venice Golf and Country Club Ospreys: Ildiko Pokk says they are doing great.

Longmont: Some snow but some pretty osprey eggs, too.

Decorah Goose Cam: Still waiting for hatch!

Xcel Energy: Fort St Vrain: All is well.

Denton Homes: Beautiful triplets. Bad, bad storms set to hit the area on Monday. Send positive wishes those tornadoes will go somewhere else.

OPPD Fort Calhoun is in line for the storms, too.

Trempealeau Eagle Nest: Is also in line with the heavy storms pushing through the Nebraska region. Mum has been doing a grand job feeding her only surviving eaglet alone.

I often wonder if Iris remembers Finnegan, Sum-eh and Antali?

Moorings Park: The expected date of Ozzie’s fledge if 4 May. That is this coming week.

Big Bear Valley: The snowstorm that hit the nearest area on Saturday has all but melted.

Farmer Derek Owl Cam: Starr goes up and down the 2 x 4 attached to the tree to go up and down easily from the nest to the ground.

West End Bald Eagle nest: Makaio eating prey on top of Tor.

Redding: Little darlings Liberty and Guardian continue to work on their new next with hope for next year.

Little Miami Conservancy: Flapping and hopping.

Sandpoint: Geese should hatch and jump today or Tuesday. Will this give Keo and Keke time to lay eggs?

Duke Farms: It appeared that the rabbit (or squirrel) was enough for all three eaglets to get some bites. ‘PB’ writes that a big fish came on the nest Monday morning and all ate well.

SW Florida:

Latvian Osperey Nest in the Kurzeme. Selma and Svings are here and we might have osplets again this year. Wish them luck! Thanks, Sassa Bird!

Link to the cams: https://www.youtube.com/@LatvijasDabasfondsOnline/streams

Sassa Bird sends us a history of this nest we are watching: “The nest we are observing is located in Kurzeme. According to the information available to Aigars Kalvāns, it has been known since 2004. The nest is built in the branches of a bent old pine tree. From 2007 to 2023, the nest has been inhabited every year, and only in 2007, 2010 and 2019 was nesting in it unsuccessful. In the remaining years, 1-3 young ospreys left the nest. In 2023, the male and female were without rings, so the origin of these birds is unknown to us. The camera system was created by Jānis Ķuze and Jānis Rudzītis. In 2024, a pair of ospreys Selga and Svings, both unringed, nested. Two chicks (Līga and Jancis) hatched and successfully fledged. Children’s ring No. 59T, 59V”.

Latvian Golden Eagle: This is Spilve’s nest. In 2020, her beautiful fully feathered chick, Klints, died of starvation when she lost her mate and could not find food. Golden Eagles will practice cainism and there are two eggs. It is extremely rare – and I do say extremely rare – that the second hatch would survive. Grislis is a good mate.

Geemef sends us another news item: “‘In Britain, we burn precious peatland for sport’ – article in Prospect magazine about the shameful practice of grouse moor burning:

https://raptorpersecutionuk.org/2025/04/25/in-britain-we-burn-precious-peatland-for-sport-article-in-prospect-magazine-about-grouse-moor-burning/

This is a good article, sent to us from our friend ‘EJ’. They say: “I know it’s not good news, but I needed to send you this article.
Nothing we can do about it except take care of our own back yards.
I take heart that my son and stepson are planting pollinator friendly gardens, watering the bees and bugs in the heat, and now leaving leaf piles and flower stalks in the fall for the bumblebees and birds and all the other insects we cannot see.” https://www.sustainability-times.com/environmental-protection/alarming-saudi-construction-this-colossal-105-mile-long-desert-skyscraper-risks-exterminating-thousands-of-birds-across-critical-migration-routes/

‘EJ’ is right. I never thought I would see a reverse in the caring of our world but, I continue to believe that if we each take charge of where we are, we can make a positive impact.

Sent from my iPhone

Thank you for being with us today. Please take care. See you soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, posts, comments, videos, articles, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog today: ‘EJ, Geemeff, Heidi, SB, PB’, King Cavaliers, Cartwright, MB, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust and Loch Arkaig, Alaistair Cameron and Llyn Brenig Project FB, Ildiko Pokk and VGCCO, Pam Breci and Longmont, Raptor Resource Project, Xcel Energy Fort St Vrain, OPPD Fort Calhoun, Trempeauleau Bald Eagles, Montana Osprey Project/Cornell Bird Lab, FoBBV, Farmer Derek GHO Cam, Duke Farms, Redding, Sandpoint, Little Miami Conservancy, Karen Meadows, SW Florida, LDF, Raptor Persecution UK< UK Osprey Information

Friday in Bird World

25 April 2025

Hello Everyone!

We have a nest note from Heidi: Bruce and Naha have their third egg at the Seaside Osprey platform. Congratulations! The egg was laid on Thursday the 24th.

‘A’ wants us to have a smile on our face, first thing! They write: “Aren’t they the cutest little people? And look at how strong their tiny legs are. That’s one of the features of these birds that I hadn’t really appreciated until the streaming cams.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2SHdcmTIo8&list=TLPQMjUwNDIwMjXPhayb3oGdQg&index=2

Oh, if humans were as resilient as raptors! Bella and Scout have been doing renovations on the alternative nest at the NCTC after their main nest and three chicks were blown off and killed.

.  New eaglet at Surrey Bald Eagle nest in beautiful British Columbia, Canada!

Can you help this little eaglet that lost its nest?

How about donating some fish for your local wildlife rehab clinic? Thank you so much to those high school students. I wonder how many other clinics need fish?

Don and Connie Dennis closely watch Ethel and Oscar at the Russell Lake osprey platform in Nova Scotia. They got this great photograph (there is no streaming cam) of Oscar catching his sweetie, a fish!

Usk Valley: First egg on Thursday!

Threave Ospreys: Former fledgling is home!

Wolf Bay: An enormous fish arrives, and both osplets get a nice feed.

Boulder County Fairgrounds: Mum and new male have four eggs on Thursday!

Centreport Eagles: There are three eaglets in the nest with thermal down.

HAPPY 29TH BIRTHDAY IRIS!

Salisbury Cathedral: First hatch came on Thursday!

San Jose City Hall: Four little fluff balls in a pile. Their eyes remain closed. That said, these eyases will develop very quickly. From hatching as fluffy chicks covered in down like the four below, they grow into powerful, feathered hunters. They first fly at about 35-45 days, but remain dependent on their parents for several weeks while they learn to hunt.

Here is a detailed look at the development to help you as you observe these beautiful falcons.

1. Hatching and Early Growth:

  • Peregrine falcons lay 3-5 eggs in a clutch. 
  • The eggs hatch after about 30-36 days of incubation. 
  • Newly hatched chicks are covered in white down and weigh about 1.5 ounces. 
  • They quickly gain weight, doubling in size within the first 6 days and increasing tenfold within 3 weeks. 
  • Chicks initially scoot around on their tarsi (lower leg bones) before they are strong enough to stand and walk. 

2. Feather Development:

  • At around 21-35 days, feathers begin to replace the down, and brown juvenile feathers emerge. 
  • Pin feathers, the precursors to full feathers, appear at wing tips and tail. 

3. Fledging and Dependence:

  • Young falcons are ready for their first flight around 35-40 days, but they remain dependent on their parents for another month or two. 
  • Parents continue to feed and protect the young, teaching them how to hunt. 

4. Juvenile Plumage and Independence:

  • Juvenile plumage is worn for about a year, gradually fading and changing with wear. 
  • After a period of learning and practice, young falcons become independent and begin hunting on their own. 

5. Maturity and Breeding:

6. Lifespan:

  • Peregrine falcons can live for 12-15 years, and some may live even longer. 

Rutland Water: (From their recent newsletter): “Spring means the return of our Rutland Water Ospreys, and it’s already been a busy few weeks for them! The male 33(11) returned on 13th March, followed by Maya on 17th March. She has previously raised 38 chicks, and is one of the most successful breeding female Ospreys on record! After arriving and refuelling, the pair have certainly busy. 33(11) was collecting sticks and grass to build up the nest, and Maya laid her first egg on the evening of 2nd April, followed by a second on 5th April, a third on 8th April, and a fourth on 11th April. The two parents are taking turns incubating the eggs – though they had some drama to contend with when an intruding Osprey briefly landed on the nest (on Maya in fact!). It takes between 35-42 days for an egg to hatch, so the eggs should begin hatching in the first couple of weeks of May. Maya and 33(11) have successfully raised and fledged a clutch of four eggs previously, and we look forward to following their progress this season.”

Trempealeau Bald Eagle Cam: This is a wonderful Mum. She fishes and brings food to her only surviving chick (who is getting its thermal down, thankfully) and then the male comes and takes the fish. So far, they are doing alright, but send them good energy, please.

Denton Homes: Bad weather continues in the region. Hoping all the eagle nests (and others) stay safe!

Little Miami Conservancy: Two little eaglets filled to the brim. How lovely.

Decorah Goose Cam: We are on pip watch this week. Mother Goose carefully covers the eggs with the down so she can feed.

Mlade Buky, Romania Black Storks: Beautiful Bety and Bukachek.

Do you know what an Oystercatcher is?

Norfolk bird surveyors find Britain’s oldest known oystercatchers https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/apr/24/norfolk-birds-rspb-britains-oldest-known-oystercatchers?CMP=share_btn_url

Glaslyn: Aran and Elen have been on the perch together on Thursday. I hope things are settling down and that the single egg in the nest hatches and fledges.

Thank you for being with us today. Please take care. See you soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, posts, images, videos, articles, and streaming cams that helped me to write my post today: ‘A, Geemeff, PB’, NCTC, Ryan Baliski/Raptors of the World, Centre for Wildlife Care, Hoo’s Woods Raptor Centre, Connie and Don Dennis/Ospreys of Nova Scotia, Usk Valley Ospreys, Threave Valley Ospreys, Wolf Bay, Boulder County Fairgrounds, Centreport Eagles, Montana Osprey Cams, Salisbury Cathedral Scrape, San Jose City Hall Falcons, LRWT, The Guardian, Trempealeau Bald Eagle Cam, Denton Homes, Little Miami Conservancy, Decorah Goose Cam, Mlade Buky Black Stork Cam, Bywyd Gwylld Glaslyn, Cornell Bird Lab Cams

Thursday in Bird World

24 April 2025

Good Morning Everyone,

The sky is the most beautiful clear blue. The winds have died down and everyone is enjoying all that the garden has to offer. We went to check on the chickadees and saw signs saying, ‘The Bears are Awake’ and others that said not to feed the wildlife because of the bears. There was not a chickadee in sight. It was, however, so nice to get outside and now sipping our afternoon tea, the squirrels and Starlings are having a frenzy at the new suet cylinders. There has been snow to the west and northwest of us. I hope this feeding frenzy is not because the weather is going to turn!

Mr Crow was not pleased with Dyson and the kits spending so much time on the big table feeder eating all of the nuts.

Meanwhile Brock was sunning himself on the top of one of the wood boxes when another cat went to eat at the feeder. It was the tiny all black kitten from last year. I have never seen Brock move so fast as to get that cat out of ‘his’ territory!

There is, however, bad weather heading through Nebraska and the eagle and osprey nests in the area. Stay safe. ‘PB’ tells me it is to get so bad that the storm chasers have come to town.

The storm went north of Denton Homes and the Majestics but ‘PB’ reports that more are popping up all over the state.

Hellgate Canyon Osprey Nest: Dr Greene reminds us:

“Hi everyone,

We know that some folks are upset with Louis, but we would like to remind you that these are wild creatures, and we should not project our human values on them. These cameras give us very intimate views into the lives of these fantastic wild ospreys, but there it does not always go as “we want.”

To put things in perspective, Iris has had an AMAZING run – she has probably fledged more chicks during her lifetime than most other ospreys anywhere in the world! And she keeps on trying!

Sincerely, Erick Greene and the Montana Osprey Team”

I am not mad at Louis. I am disappointed that Finnegan did not return, but as I continue to say, we must treasure each moment because we do not know when something terrible will happen. Yes, I had hoped for another nest of chicks and to see Iris as the great mum she is. I wish a male would bring her some good fish when she calls. But I do not want her to lose her nest at this stage in her life. And that is where Louis is important. Hopefully, he will continue to defend her against all male and female intruders, including Blue ZO, a four-year-old female from Fort Missoula. I cannot imagine Iris being homeless. Without a Finnegan, I also don’t want her to have to raise chicks. She should enjoy her summers so she can be fit for migration and return to us again and again.

Iris chased a female down the river today. Oh, darling Iris. We do not want you to get injured. I don’t think we could take it.

Llyn Brenig: The latest:

“After laying the first egg on 15 April from her pairing with 416, 372 went on to lay another two over the Easter weekend. In the meantime, LJ2 asserted himself and fought for his nest, attacking both 372 and 416 in the process. After some initial struggles, LJ2 looks to have achieved dominance and evicted two of the eggs from the nest (the third remains on the periphery of the platform and is being ignored by both birds). After this lively start to the osprey season, we continue to watch with great interest.

Follow all the drama on our webcams – https://ow.ly/GrzY50VGiVl – or visit the North Wales Wildlife Trust Lookout at Llyn Brenig (follow the signs from the visitor centre!).”

RSPB Loch Garten: Oh, another nest that might be a failure this year. RSPB Loch Garten writes,

“The latest action-packed instalment of #TheOspreyDiaries is here!

It’s touch and go now at Loch Garten. Will Asha return? Will a new female appear and get Brodie’s attention? Or will we see an empty nest this season? Stay tuned for all the updates right here.”

As I continue, you will notice that Iris is not the only one having nest issues!

Glaslyn: Elen laid her second egg at 1417 on Wednesday. The other three are gone due to the kerfuffel between Aran and Teifi. Will this egg go the way of the others? Will Aran reclaim his nest? Will Teifi leave? Will Elen accept Aran? It really is a soap opera.

Usk Valley: Things look like they could be encouraging.

ENCOURAGING SIGNS — Usk Valley OspreysDownload

Thank goodness there is a movement to erect some badly needed safe osprey poles! Can you chip in? I would love to see this happening at Achieva!

Geemeff sends us the daily summary for Loch Arkaig and The Woodland Trust:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Wednesday 23rd April 2025

Another quiet day where not much happened. Blue 536 visited Nest One in the morning but when Garry LV0 didn’t bring fish and attempted mating instead, she left. She should have returned later because he brought a fish at supper time and took it away as there weren’t any takers. His fish tally rises to thirteen. Nest Two saw Louis delivering two fish, taking his tally to forty seven, and getting rewarded by being allowed on egg duty while Dorcha went off to have her meal. Male Ospreys have brood patches like the females, but not all male Ospreys are as enthusiastic about egg-sitting as Louis. The weather was settled, the promised rain didn’t materialise and the forecast is dry tonight – a good night for owls, they are calling as this report is being posted (midnight) – and sunny intervals tomorrow.

Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 21.47.54 (04.35.40); Nest Two 21.44.19 (04.55.28)

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/hu5NnXsXYHk N1 Great Tit visits at dawn and returns later 05.47.45

https://youtu.be/6bVxUOVXQEo N2 Dorcha shrieks when she sees breakfast arriving 05.56.38

https://youtu.be/B_iuG4WfwjQ N1 Blue 536 calls in vain but no fish from Garry LV0 08.41.27

https://youtu.be/eq2Jw7PlqW8 N2 Louis brings lunch for Dorcha – second fish today 13.41.30

https://youtu.be/NJpWUVhmuWY N1 Garry brings a fish but no one’s there 19.33.06

Bonus read – discover Woodland Trust’s partnership with Sainsburys – it’s more than just eggs:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/partnerships/our-partners/sainsburys

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/HC8FSMTgKWk N1 Aila lays the first egg 2020 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/Cnif4BNYFuM N1 Louis brings a fish to the empty nest 2021

https://youtu.be/OpyGsxeMGwE N1 Is this emaciated unringed female Aila? 2021 (long version)

https://youtu.be/fmNwPCmnz5k N2 Louis the pole vaulter 2022

https://youtu.be/VgOVHWjXnkk N1 Sweet little singer singing its heart out 2022

https://youtu.be/qLyRSw-879A N2 Ravens alarm Dorcha 2023

https://youtu.be/45Svwh7f7qA N2 Wind-swept lovers 2023

https://youtu.be/wpswrPe2VU0 Garry returns with his fish, still no takers 2024

https://youtu.be/6NqL5vXG91w N1: Prince attacks Affric 2024 (slo-mo zoom repeat)

https://youtu.be/oStv3X3SDiM  N2 Louis brings Dorcha a fish supper 2024

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

San Jose City Hall Falcons: Oh, wow. I am in love. Just look at these four – and do not worry. As SK Hideaways’ video shows, that fourth hatch (two days after the first three) got right up front to get its food! https://youtu.be/iPwcVApFTPA?

There might not be many falcon or hawk streaming cams, but these are such precious little angels. I think we should all watch Monty and Hartley raising these four without hesitation.

Remember. Cornell Redtail Hawk Cam. Big Red and Arthur will be on hatch watch in about six days. This is my favourite raptor nest. I love this Red-tail Hawk, who, at 22 years old, is so special I cannot even find the words to describe her.

There are two streaming cams you can see what is happening from all sides.

A tender moment between Arthur and Big Red.

NE Florida Bald Eagles: Gabby and Beau have been delivering fish to Bodie. Three on Tuesday! And Bodie was eating well on Wednesday when I checked. She is up on the branch looking very much like her beautiful Mum, Gabby, in that heraldic pose. Dear Juvie has not been seen since Saturday on any camera.

Xcel Energy Fort St Vrain Bald Eagles: The two surviving eaglets are doing very well and were full to the brim on Wednesday!

Farmer Derek’s Bonnie and Clyde Owl Cam: Look at little Starr up on those branches. She jumps down to the nest to get prey from Bonnie! Oh, my goodness, if GHOS would just leave the eaglets and osplets alone, I would love them.

Denton Homes Majestics: A lovely day on the nest.

Trempealeau Bald Eagle Nest: Mum is doing an amazing job raising her only surviving chick. Dad has come to steal fish she has caught. Don’t get me started. Today T3 has some fish and Mum also fed T3 one of its siblings (T4, perhaps). Thermal down is coming. It cannot come fast enough as good weather is not promised.

Duke Farms: Some have written to me about their concern for the amount of food coming to this nest. We often see the adults cutting back. These are beautiful, fully feathered eaglets. Let’s hope prey is plentiful enough for all to be healthy when they fumble. They are undoubtedly gorgeous and are climbing around those nest rails.

Decorah Goose Cam: We are on hatch watch.

Union County Falcon Scrape. It is hot. Mum is panting and there is at least one hatch, but I think two so far!

Heidi’s US Osprey Notes:

Cape Henlopen osprey cam: The new platform was installed over two years ago, and it went unused (except for the vultures that used to hang out there every day).  There were a few different ospreys spotted on the platform this spring, and one female in particular.  Then on 4/16 a handsome fellow showed up, and the two quickly became an item.  They have had some intruder issues which they have handled well.  The male has brought in nesting material, brought the female fish gifts, and they have been mating several times a day!

Wolf Bay osprey cam:  Josie and Bert now have two little hatchlings.  The second baby hatched the morning of 4/23.

Venice osprey cam: There is no shortage of fish at this nest, and the three kiddos are doing great. They are 18, 21, and 22 days old on 4/24.

Frenchman’s Creek: This only-chick is 50 days old, and has been doing some great wingers with small hops!  

Brevard County osprey cam: The youngest osplet finally figured out that being on the other side of Mom during a feeding tends to work out pretty well… look at that crop!

Thanks, Heidi!

A couple of other notes scrolling through the nests:

Bay and Beau at Island Beach State Park have their first egg.

Calico’s Tip of the Day: Listen to Jane Goodall’s message for Earth Day. On Earth Day, we finally made all of the changes to the cleaning supplies that we use in the house. Today, we are going to install a rain barrel. What else can you do? Can we do? https://youtu.be/gIpQa0k7y3A?

Thank you so much for being with us today. Take care all! See you soon.

Thank you to the following for their posts, comments, notes, videos, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog today: ‘Geemeff, Heidi, PB’, The Weather Channel, Dr Ericke Green, Louis Matteau/Hellgate Osprey Cam, Llyn Brenig, RSPB Loch Garten, Bywyd Gwylld Glaslyn, Usk Valley, Carol Fuller/The Joy of Ospreys, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust, Heidi McGrue/The Joy of Ospreys, San Jose City Falcons, SK Hideaways, Cornell Red-tail Hawk Cam, NEFL-AEF, Xcel Energy, Farmer Derek’s Owl Cam, Denton Homes, Trempealeau Bald Eagle Cam, Duke Farms, Raptor Resource Project/Explore, Union County Falcon Scrape, Cape Henlopen, Venice Golf and Country Club Ospreys, Wolf Bay Osprey Cam, Frenchman’s Creek, Brevard County, Jane Goodall Institute

Monday in Bird World

21 April 2025

Hello Everyone,

I have been thinking about each of you.

The recent collapse of the NCTC Bald Eagle nest belonging to Bella and Scout has left us all shaken. On that fateful day, both eagles were seen with full crops in the afternoon, seemingly captivated by something just beyond the nest. Scout truly stepped up, proving himself to be a devoted father, while Bella and he nurtured three healthy eaglets. These eaglets were nothing short of a miracle, yet they now stand as a poignant reminder of the heartbreaking tragedies that have unfolded and continue to unfold across so many nests this year.

E10, E11, and E12 with their thermal down and little dandelions. Pin feathers coming in. Happy Eaglets. Soar higher than high, you three.

Take a moment and send Bella and Scout some good positive energy. They spent the night together, chortling in the nest tree. Breaks our hearts. https://youtu.be/V2bvwO7otpI?

The last time the NCTC nest had eaglets fledge was 15 June 2023. The three eaglets hatched on March 20, 22, and 24, 2025, and would have been around 12 weeks old when they left the nest in June. The 2023 fledging was part of a nesting season where the first and second eaglet hatched on March 15 and March 20 respectively, followed by the third eaglet on March 24.

Deb Stecy’s tribute to Scout, Bella, and the trio. https://youtu.be/FbvoK69eY-Y?

We never know when the last moment will be when we are with someone. Take the time today to tell someone how much they mean to you.

A Potential Crisis was averted at the USK Valley Osprey nest on Sunday. A piece of wood with a wire was taken to the nest and is now around the leg of one of the resident ospreys. The osprey managed to get that wire off and fly away free!

At Llyn Brenig, the second egg was evicted and was eaten by Blue 372. Both eggs are gone. Another unsettled year for this nest.

Hellgate Canyon: Iris. Most of us do not ‘love’ Louis and we wish he would stay over at the ballpark with Star. This year he is spending way too much time focused on Iris and her nest. Sometimes it is a good thing! There was a kerfuffel Sunday. Some said it was another male, some another female. If Iris does not have Finnegan, then Louis will help her to keep her nest that she has had since it was moved to the Riverview Health parking lot more than a decade ago.

Really good article written in 2023 about Queen Iris and her history.

https://www.montanakaimin.com/arts_and_culture/she-s-a-survivor-the-story-behind-missoula-s-iris-the-osprey/article_418cc368-df14-11ed-8595-17c613dc83c9.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=email&utm_campaign=user-share

OPPD Fort Calhoun, Nebraska: ‘PB’ captures that second eggs arrival.

UdeM Falcons: Four eggs!

Sodankyla Osprey Nest Finland is live: https://www.youtube.com/live/3sw1Ogpq94U?si=qZbH6LVHy1uzttyS

Wolf Bay, Alabama: The third egg was laid on March 21st. Now, we are getting really close to pip watch for Josie and Elbert!

Charlo Montana: Charlie and Lola on Sunday.

Frenchman’s Creek Ospreys: Not a Baby Bob anymore! Look at those gorgeous juvenile feathers. Hatched on 5 March, this is the only osplet to survive the owl predation, which destroyed the two other eggs.

Sauces Canyon: Betty Lou showing off her crop and plumage.

Fraser Point: Gorgeous and growing.

Fort St Vrain: Both eaglets continue to do well, although I would like it if they didn’t sleep on those rails all the time. Lots of various prey in the nest, too.

Geemeff sends us the daily summary from The Woodland Trust and Loch Arkaig:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Sunday 20th April 2025
Another exciting day where once again the main action was on Nest One. Blue 536 arrived at sunrise and spent a great deal of time on the nest throughout the day. Garry brought three fish, taking his tally to nine, although he wouldn’t give the third fish to Blue 536 despite her calls. He also brought more bedding and sticks, and the nest is looking very ready for eggs although

there may not be any this year. Others also seem to have their eye on the nest – Affric 152 made a brief touchdown with an aerial battle going on around her seen in the distance involving several Ospreys. Louis may or may not have been one of those Ospreys but he did make time to deliver two fish to Dorcha, taking his tally to forty two, and take his turn on incubating duties. The weather was drier today and will continue dry overnight, but after a sunny start, the forecast calls for rain tomorrow afternoon. 
Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 21.41.25 (05.15. 20); Nest Two 21.38.20 (05.19.03)Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/F2ypJD3KP48 N2 Dorcha gets a lively breakfast 05.48.11 https://youtu.be/DIzr6UZLn7E N1 Blue 536 arrives at sunrise 05.53.27 https://youtu.be/_U3zHvEiUHY N1 Garry brings breakfast for Blue 536 07.34.05 

https://youtu.be/s6GNJOcs4Qg N1 Garry pole vaults in on a huge stick 08.40.23 

https://youtu.be/ogHunWjD9iA N1 Affric lands with an aerial battle going on nearby 12.41.19

https://youtu.be/lIwgUA-IQi0 N1 Blue 536 stays on the nest to eat fish number two 14.26.17https://youtu.be/Uv7aXoZf5hA N1 Garry LV0 brings a third fish but won’t let Blue 536 have it 15.06.34 https://youtu.be/CT170vqlgUg N2 Dorcha grabs fish number two and departs immediately 18.34.07
Bonus 

watch – context: In 2021 when Aila failed to return, Louis decamped to Nest Two which didn’t then have a camera. LizB who lives nearby kept us updated and took these long lens videos of Louis’ first chicks with Dorcha, males Aspen LW3 & Alder LW4:https://youtu.be/Efd8s1nkSz8
https://youtu.be/-AQUSjWRQYE

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:
https://youtu.be/wHZ82lsjm0w N1 Is an egg on the way? Aila rejects Louis 2020
https://youtu.be/PeTIDHTcCy0  N1 Strange Osprey intrudes and Louis chases 2020 (Slo-mo)
https://youtu.be/BmWPo9QWyCo  N1 Aila attacks Louis! 2020 (Slo-mo)
https://youtu.be/aafgLlitPRM  N1 Louis pays a flying visit to his empty nest 2021
https://youtu.be/9VqSvrxPL_E  N2 Fish fight, Dorcha wins eventually 2022
https://youtu.be/Cc8twF7MOYs  N2 Dorcha stays the night on the nest 2023
https://youtu.be/VhqDI8j3w8s  N2 First fish arrives and departs 2023
https://youtu.be/upyTm7MQoaY  N2 Egg number three! 2024 (zoomed repeat)
https://youtu.be/IrJUd9po9EQ  N1 Garry LV0 does a flypast before bringing his fish to Nest One 2024
https://youtu.be/PlkidBYXpsg N2 Dorcha shows no sign of injury on leaving with her fish 2024

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

Parliamentary Debate in the UK set over driven grouse moor hunting! Finally, all of the groups got their 100,000 signatures, and this will cause politicians to be accountable. Geemeff says, “This is a huge result! Parliament is forced to debate this, and out in the open, there is no hiding in committee rooms. Now we’ll see who’s for wildlife and the environment, and who’s for needless slaughter and destruction for money.” Well done, everyone. I hope to never hear again of a Hen Harrier nest with five little chicks being stomped on, or our precious raptors being shot.

Ban driven grouse shooting petition passes 100,000 signatures & now eligible for Westminster debateDownload

Why are Purbek Puffin numbers declining? And why are the adults refusing to raise their young?

https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/apr/20/last-chance-saloon-the-scramble-to-save-dorsets-vanishing-purbeck-puffins?CMP=share_btn_url

Baby Hope really looks like Mamma Calico. Her personality is nothing short of Sticky Toffee Pudding sweet.

Missey is in need of a good brush!

What is Hugo Yugo looking at?

A Dark-eyed Junco getting seed off the outdoor carpet. There are dozens of them all over the carpet and deck, hopping around entertaining ‘The Girls’.

Check out Audubon Photography Awards!

Audubon Photography Awards | AudubonDownload

‘A’ like so many others is enraged that the term ‘harm’ is being defined and that Bald Eagles and other raptors might find themselves endangered or extinct because of that word. ‘A’ sends us a video to explain: https://youtu.be/UdynP7ssHxo?

Calico’s Tip of the Day: Watch Rachel Carson on streaming cam (Amazon Prime) if you can. ‘The Girls’ and I are watching Rachel Carson on one of the streaming channels. Carson did something to help wildlife – she wrote Silent Spring, which led to the banning of DDT.

While we may not rise to the status of Rachel Carson, we can make our concerns known, and we must not give up because the task is hard or people try to scare us. Some nests need repairs or replacing – speak up! Chicks and adults need protection against human debris that can harm them. Many issues need to be made public. Several of us are concerned about the platform that was installed at Florida-Gainesville. At the same time, good advice should have been sought about the camera. They could be persuaded to partner with Connor at Window to Wildlife. They would install and monitor the platform and camera. It would be a win for everyone. What you want to bet is that it might not cost anything for Florida-Gainsville Extension! Dani Connor lobbied for, crowd-funded, and purchased the Squirrel Forest to protect the animals from having all the trees cut down and their homes lost. Never assume that we cannot have an impact. Think outside the box. Don’t give up. Make your voices heard.

While we cannot do anything about winds of 70 or 90 mph from tearing up raptor nests or snapping the trees or poles, we might cause enough noise to get those individuals or companies operating streaming cams to inspect and repair/restore the nests during the off-season. If it saves one life, then it would be worth it!

Smile. Look at those cute little eyases of Monty and Hartley at the San Jose City Falcon scrape!

Check out SK Hideaways’ video of Sunday night’s feeding. I know—you have missed the sound of falcons. Enjoy this nest! https://youtu.be/qfqbrR4CGs0?

Thank you for being with me today. Please take care. See you soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, posts, comments, videos, articles, and streaming cams that helped me to write my post today: ‘Geemeff, J, PB’, Deb Stecyk, NCTC Bald Eagle Nest, Usk Valley Ospreys, Llyn Brenig Osprey Cam, montanakiman.com, Montana Osprey Project/Cornell Bird Lab, OPPD Fort Calhoun Ospreys, UdeM Falcons, Sodankyla Osprey Nest Finland, Wolf Bay Ospreys, Raptor Resource Project/Explore.org, Frenchman’s Creek Ospreys, IWS/Explore, Xcel Energy, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust and Loch Arkaig, Raptor Persecution UK, The Guardian, The Damage Report, Rachel Carson, SK Hideaway

Saturday in Bird World

19 April 2025

Good Morning Everyone,

I’m excited to share this blog post just after midnight, right on the cusp of Saturday! With an early morning ahead and a busy day planned, I want to ensure I don’t forget to send this out before we leave the house. If there’s any important news that comes, I’ll be updating you when I return around noon. Stay tuned!

It was an eventful Friday at Iris’s nest, filled with unexpected visitors including a male with distinctive Blue OZ ring making an appearance; we recognised him from before and hoped he would decide to stay last year, after, another male arrived with a fish, followed by Louis, who always brings a sense of ‘authority’ to the scene. Louis arrived as a sky dancer graced us with its presence—perhaps it was Finnegan, although we still can’t be certain. Louis quickly sprang into action to protect “his” nest from potential threats. The atmosphere is charged and uncertain, and as I document this at 5:22 PM CDT, the full cast of characters remains a mystery.

Now is this Iris needing to defend her nest against a female? or is it Finnegan sky dancing for our Iris and Louis came to chase him away? We do not know.

Louis arrives.

There is still hope for Finnegan (if it wasn’t Finnegan who brought the fish to Iris) as Charlie has just returned from Migration to the Charlo Montana nest to be with his Lola Saturday afternoon!

So, we do not know what is happening at Iris’s nest. The coming days might provide us with clarity. Still, I want to emphasise that while I want Iris to have a devoted mate, I do not want her to get injured fighting off another female and/or her mate. In that regard, Louis protecting the territory and that nest is a blessing for our Queen. Blue NC0 at Loch of the Lowes is much younger than Iris. Without a mate, she lost her nest just a couple of weeks ago.

Knepp Farm has baby White Storks hatching!

News from KneppDownload

Look how big they are. Scout and Bella’s trio at the NCTC nest are growing and doing so well. What a turnaround and so happy for Bella.

At Glaslyn, Aran has been dealing with intruders, allowing Teifi to deliver two fish to Elen. This nest is not settled.

Goitzsche Wildnis, Germany: ‘JC’ writes with her video: “Rainy day in much of Germany and also at the Goitzsche Wildnis nest. Zeus was doing his share of responsibility by incubating the eggs. Meanwhile, we can hear Fjona screaming at the corvids from the camera perch. She flies out and turns around to return, reach the nest and relieve the male in the incubation. Both have been through water, obviously.” You can watch that video here: https://youtu.be/iYpvYj_jSAM?

Kielder Forest: Joanna Dailey reports “Y1 on Nest 4 and UV at Nest 5A are both still without a partner. They have been visited by females, but although fish has been gratefully accepted, the females seem to be checking out options. So this is often the view at either nest.”

RSPB Loch Garten Abernathy: Asha is not completely impressed with all the drama going on at the nest. Blue 536 was an intruder amongst other goings on. Check out the live stream. Like others, things seem unsettled.

Cornell Owl Cam: Athena’s mate delivers a meal for the family. https://youtu.be/hwfx5M1TO70?

Their FB post: “So far Asha has returned to the nest and has had multiple males appear. One, Blue 047, attempted to settle in but has since gone after the arrival of Brodie. Brodie and Asha had eggs at the nest last year and all seemed to be going well until KL5 arrived on the scene. He forced Brodie away and then destroyed the eggs, and with it too late in the year, the chance of chicks was destroyed, too. Back to 2025. Will Asha and Brodie have eggs again? Will KL5 return and, if so, can Brodie keep him away? Will other males try their luck?”

Most of us know that watching osprey nests is often better than anything on the streaming channels!!!!!!!

Threave Ospreys NTS:

Loch of the Lowes: After Blue NC0 was ousted from the nest she shared with her partner Laddie LM12 who died last year, will there be a bonded couple? Any eggs? It feels very late, but we will wait and see.

Such a waste of an amazing nest and fish supply.

Satakunnan, Nest 4, Finland: No eggs yet. Birds arriving and settling in.

Llyn Clywedog: Seren Blue 5F rolls her eggs in the wee hours of the morning as light is just breaking over the horizon.

Glaslyn: Light rain falling on Elen. She has left the second egg (first buried by Aran) in the rain and chilly weather. We will see if it is viable later. Male osprey visited just after 0500. Not sure if it was Aran or Teifi.

Another unsettled nest. The number of osplets to hatch and fledge in the UK this season might be lower, not due to weather or siblicide, but due to bonded pair disruptions.

Rutland Manton Bay: What a beautiful sight. Four gorgeous eggs for Blue 33 and Maya – and we know that they can raise four! It really helps to have a source of fish right at the nest!!!!!!!! And look at the beautiful swans.

It is refreshing to have this stable nest.

Pitkin County: Incubation.

Osprey Cam from Taipalsaari, Finland: The Satakunnan Sääkset project in Taipalsaari, Finland, offers live streaming of four osprey nests, with cameras from the Satakunta region. (This nest is, I believe, different from Nest 4 but I am trying to confirm). Just look at that dark necklace. It is almost solid. Have you ever seen anything like it?

Fort St Vrain: Fresh fish and two eaglets in a food coma. Snow came overnight on the 18th and Mum kept the two surviving eaglets warm and dry. They had a good meal first thing Saturday. All is well.

Geemeff’s daily summary for Loch Arkaig and The Woodland Trust:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Friday 18th April 2025
A very exciting day – is it possible Garry LV0 has found a mate? A ringed Scottish female Blue 536 turned up on Nest One when Affric 152 was there, and after a bit of a chase and some warnings, got rid of Affric. She and Garry did a dance on and off the nest throughout the day with mating attempts, coy-mantling, chasing and following each other, and more importantly, two fish handed over, even if he did make her wait for them. Garry’s total soars upward to five, while over on Nest Two, Louis’ two fish deliveries take his total to thirty nine. Things were a lot calmer on Nest Two, Dorcha spent most of the day incubating her first egg, with the second one due tomorrow, and Louis was his usual helpful self eager to take on egg-sitting duties. The day ended with Dorcha pearled with raindrops on a very wet nest, and the promise of an interesting day tomorrow. The weather forecast is for light rain and a gentle breeze tonight and tomorrow, but with the nests so exposed, that light rain is more like a drenching.
Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 21.26.09 (04.51.03); Nest Two 21.18.36 (05.12.08)
Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/cZ1_OOE1hN4 N1 Garry LV0 buzzes a deer 09.15.41https://youtu.be/Qea56AzPPXo N2 Louis egg-sits after bringing fish number one 09.32.34https://youtu.be/sT_rfNZ_oPs N1 New Scottish female Blue 536 sees Affric 152 off the nest! 10.52.57https://youtu.be/GASqP38H2Fs N1 Garry and Blue 536 meet up on camera 11.46.58https://youtu.be/dOnG1vjVr8A N1 Garry eventually gives his fish to Blue 536 13.57.56https://youtu.be/PEmIctxg8EE N2 Dorcha seizes the second fish from Louis 16:08:36https://youtu.be/LKNiOLncTN4 N1 Blue 536 gets a second fish from Garry LV0 18.02.54

Bonus watch – news item about WTS removing huge quantities of non-native timber from the forest https://youtu.be/K2t1Za0iwcU
Blast from the past, this day in previous years:
https://youtu.be/WF3FAQOLy8s  N1 Female stranger visits lonely Louis 2021 (real time)
https://youtu.be/WF3FAQOLy8s  N1 Female stranger visits lonely Louis 2021 (slo-mo)
https://youtu.be/ijqYocF2QoE  N2 Louis does a flypast with fish 2022 (zoomed)
https://youtu.be/ikX-jxrt_kw  N2 Louis subdues a stubborn stick 2023
https://youtu.be/QOxlUE3bGts N2 Louis delivers supper at sunset 2023https://youtu.be/dU43UqtK7tI N1 cheeky Hoodies want Garry’s fish 2024
https://youtu.be/kRPBQfqCCs0  N1 Affric 152 is attacked by a strange Osprey 2024 (slo-mo repeat plus stills)
https://youtu.be/zrElVMqpJlU  N1: Fish for Affric from Garry LV0, big headless trout 2024
https://youtu.be/GXbgsaLiMvw N2 Dorcha lets Louis take the second fish away again 2024
https://youtu.be/esrwp4Lbzvk  N1 A flavour of Affric & Garry LV0’s day 2024

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

Growing concern for wildlife protections in the US:

“The new proposal from the US Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service offers a new interpretation of the of the 1973 Endangered Species Act, which would strike habitat destruction from regulations.

At issue is a longstanding definition of two terms in the Endangered Species Act: “harm” and “take”. “Harm” has meant altering or destroying the places those species live. “Take”, meanwhile, is a term used in regulations to denote any actions that include hunting, capturing, wounding or killing a protected species, which has included altering or destroying the places those species live.

A bald eagle lands on a branch in Kachemak Bay State Park, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service said in a proposed rule, issued on Wednesday, that habitat modification and destruction should not be considered “harm” because it is not the same as intentionally targeting a species, which is defined as “take”.

Trump administration moves to narrow protections for endangered species. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/17/trump-remove-endangered-species-protections?CMP=share_btn_url

Calico wants you to know that if you are bird watching you are helping to keep your brain from ‘rotting’. Maybe you do puzzles, too! Sadly with four curious cats it is impossible for puzzles to be a part of my life, but have a read and see what else you can do to keep your brain in tip top shape – or at least help it!

Beat brain rot: clear your mind with 55 screen-free activities, from birdwatching to colouring bookshttps://www.theguardian.com/thefilter/2025/apr/17/screen-free-calming-activities?CMP=share_btn_url

Thank you for being with us today. Please take care. We hope to see you soon.

Thank you to the following for their notes, posts, comments, videos, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog today: ‘Geemeff, L, PB’, Montana Osprey Project/Cornell Bird Lab, Raptor Resource Project/Explore.org, Knepp Farm, Joanna Dailey and Kielder Forest, RSPB Loch Garten, Jeff Kear UK Osprey Info and Threave, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust, The Guardian, Cornell Bird Lab (Owl Cam), Satakunnan Finland 4, Llyn Clywedog CarnyXWild, Bywyd Gwylld Glaslyn, LRWT, Pitkin County Government, XCel Energy, Osprey Cam from Taipalsaari, Finland

Wednesday in Bird World

2 April 2025

Good Morning,

Jackie and Shadow’s kiddos have been named: Sunny for the oldest and Gizmo for the youngest. Thanks 3rd graders!

Loch Arkaig: Gemeff writes that Louis and Dorcha might be home. Just waiting for confirmation from the Woodland Trust.

Ospreys are like buses – wait for ages and then two come along at once!

This is how Dorcha’s arrival happened:

13.58.57 An Osprey call is heard off camera – is it Louis? Sounds like him. I boosted the audio the better to hear the call.

14.04.19 An Osprey lands with a chirp – but it’s Dorcha, not Louis! Welcome home!

14.06.20 She departs, flying lochwards and disappearing into the distance. She’s quite hollow-cropped, I imagine she’s gone fishing. Perhaps already made an attempt judging by the green gunk on her right foot.

https://youtu.be/0at1Hn1OO68 (zoomed)

Think he is home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And earlier, we had the first Osprey visit – the Really Dark Female (RDF) who’s visited before.

https://youtu.be/GdxCrcgFs9w (zoom)

Louis video coming now – he stayed a few secs then flew off lochwards

I had not planned on sending out a post this morning, but Geemeff drew my attention to something and I think that it is something that we have to prepare ourselves for – the fact that Louis and many other beloved ospreys might not return this year.

I know that readers sometimes do not click on links and you might have missed this one in my Tuesday blog. Geemeff suggested that I pin it in print because people are concerned about whether or not Louis (or any of the others not already home) will return. George writes for the Woodland Trust:


“It is clear that Louis suffered some kind of illness last year that saw him perched in a tree for days on end when he would ordinarily have been fishing. While he did recover before the end of the summer it is likely that when he migrated he was not as fit as he has been in past years.

We believe he was two or three years old when we first saw him in 2017 so that means that while by no means ancient he is now getting on in years. There are a few individual outliers that live to 20 and beyond but the typical lifespan seems to be 10-15 years. He is in that zone now.

Migration is tough in either direction, We do need to prepare ourselves for the possibility that Louis might not make it back this year.

It is also important for everyone to process the fact that wild lives don’t tend to end neatly. If Louis does return this season he may be vulnerable to another younger male kicking him off the nest. Or his fishing abilities may go into decline. Remember that the beginning of his breeding career with Aila began with chick mortality because the pair were inexperienced. His middle years have seen him mature into an excellent father, but we can expect a tough time for chicks hatched in his declining years.

That is just how these things go. While it is upsetting for us to see chicks fail, it is natural.

It could be that he arrives back in fine fettle in the next week or two and we have a successful season. But we have to accept that might not be the case.”

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam/?ht-comment-id=24047912

We hope that they all return. We wait and see.

Geemeff also sent this announcement that has a stale date. There is going to be a great Q & A on Eagles this Thursday. So check it out.

Thank you, Geemeff!

CROW is asking for your help.

‘RP’ sent us another cute little bird nest idea! Thank you.

We have some ospreys arriving and we have some that need their mates to come home NOW!

Kielder Forest: W6 is home!

W6 arrives, with fish offering! _ Kielder OspreysDownload

Cowlitz PUD:

Llyn Brenig:

Mispillion Harbour: Heidi keeps a close eye on these Delaware ospreys.

UFlorida-Gainesville: Sadly, that sinking hole we noticed has resulted in the loss of all three of Stella’s eggs with her new mate. Here is the announcement:

“April 1 2025: Hello Osprey fans! I have sad news to report. From the recent heavy rains, a hole opened up in the bottom of the nest and all three eggs fell through and were lost. Tragic and I am truly sorry this has happened to the osprey pair. This event happened once before at the old location of the osprey cam at the original UF ball field. We will keep the camera on in April to see if they repair the nest. I don’t think Stella will lay more eggs this season as she has laid four already. Ospreys are resilient and most likely will be back again to nest.”

Fraser Point: The intruders in the Channel Islands just don’t seem to let up. What a worry especially with two little ones on the nest. Stay safe Mama Cruz. And below is the announcement of the name for one of the nest’s eaglets!

High Spirit Bluff: Poor Newmann. He is a fantastic Dad and now he has yet another mate.

Kisatchie E3: ‘MP’ sends some news: “Today, three nice size fish came in so far… The eaglet is doing a good job tearing food apart as long as dad zips it open. The problem is mom comes in and interrupts her/him and takes it away which the eaglet isn’t happy about. I guess mom has to eat too. So, at eight weeks and five days it’s one day at a time. “

NEFlorida: Just look at Brodie! Isn’t she amazing? I don’t want her to fledge just yet.

NCTC: Scout and Bella’s triplets appear to be doing quite well.

Little Miami Conservancy: The kids are doing very well.

John Bunker Sands Wetlands: They are still on the nest, but they are itching to fly. The winds on this nest will certainly pick them up and send them off to soon. It has been a very special nest to monitor this year.

Foulshaw Moss: Blue 35 has returned to her mate White YW at their nest in Cumbria. I can’t wait for the season to start.

Maryland Western Shore Old Town Home: Heidi writes:
3/1 – Maryland Western Shore osprey nest: Marilyn and Arthur have their second egg, which was laid shortly before 10 pm on 3/1.

Cornell Red Tail Hawks: Oh, grand. Big Red laid egg 3 this morning!

Spring is coming! The arrival of certain birds signals the awakening of the land, the trees, the bushes, the flowers. For me it is the arrival of geese but for others, it is the Redwing.

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/apr/01/country-diary-twittering-squalling-redwings-speaks-only-spring?CMP=share_btn_url

Thank you for being with me. I am very grateful for all the news that was sent in today. Take care all. See you soon.

Thank you to the following for their notes, posts, images, videos, and streaming cams that helped me send this blog off to you today: ‘Geemeff, Heidi, MP, RP’, The Woodland Trust, Raptor Resource Project, CROW, Elaine Buckner, Pam Breci and Cowlitz PUD, Jeff Kear and UKOsprey Info FB and Llyn Brenig, Heidi McGrue and Mispillion Harbour, Gracie Shepherd and IWS/Explore (Fraser Point), Diane Lambertson and High Spirit Bluff, Kistachie E3 Bald Eagle Nest, NEFlorida-AEF, Little Miami Conservancy, John Bunker Sands Wetlands, The Guardian, Maryland Western Shore Old Town Home, Cornell Bird Lab

Thursday in Bird World

27 March 2022

Hello Everyone,

Thank you to everyone for sending in news items. It is much appreciated and it is all too easy for me to miss something which is important. So, we are going to put the news items in my inbox up front today.

‘J’ let me know that the much loved Latvian Golden Eagle Spilve, mother of the late Klints, has laid an egg. In 2020, Spilve laid her first egg on 29 March. It is believed that she has not been breeding since then – at least not at this nest. https://youtu.be/DOj7tYjk1j0?

“EJ’ sent me a wonderful news article. Imagine gold fish ponds everywhere ——–imagine ponds and large holding tanks, no deeper than 3 feet – full of koi. That sure would put an end to hunger on some of those osprey nests! I remember marveling at the adults at Collins Marsh one year. The normal fish were small and one day the adults found a koi pond. I wondered if it was a garden centre or a home. Their babies ate well then.

https://www.fox5vegas.com/2025/03/26/goldfish-dumped-henderson-pond-attracting-birds-prey-bird-enthusiasts

Port of Ridgefield, WA: ‘BHA’ writes: “Sorry the photo isn’t very good  – this is on my t.v. New camera is great, complete with date and time this year (which doesn’t show in this picture). As you can see it’s a beautiful day here in the Pacific Northwest. 🌞”. The couple laid three eggs last year with only one chick reaching fledge (2 DNH).

I think that image is very good and we so appreciate your sharing it with us. What a nice day for this couple to be home!

‘PB’ sent us the 2025 US State of the Bird Report and it shows numbers os birds are dropping significantly.

2025 U.S. State of the Birds Report Shows Widespread Declines – Birds and BloomsDownload

Osprey Nest News:

Heidi’s News:

Patuxent River Park osprey nest (MD) – 3/26 the cam went live for the season, and I was delighted to see the same ‘Mom’ and ‘Dad’ at the nest.  It’s good to see they both made it back.

Seaside osprey nest (OR) – Bruce returned on 3/24, and Naha arrived on 3/26. It’s always wonderful when a beloved pair are reunited after a long migration.

Crooked Lake osprey nest (IN) –  An osprey pair is at the nest.  The chat is referring to the male as Noble, and is referring to the female as ‘Mom’ (rather than Whitley), but I think it is the same female.

Moorings Park osprey nest (FL) –  The chatters were fond of calling Sally and Harry’s only osplet ‘Solo’.  But, on 3/26 the community bird club officially named the 17-day-old youngster “Ozzie.”

Other Osprey news:

Bassenthwaite/Blackgate Farm Ospreys: J Kear reports that both ospreys have returned to their nest.

Llyn Brenig: Blue 372 is eating a lot of fish and restoring her strength and health in time for breeding season.

Dyfi Osprey Project: Perhaps Idris is trying out for the Olympic pole vaulting team! Idris worked hard on that nest and now he can celebrate with his mate Telyn who returned today.

Yeah, Telyn is home!

Kielder Forest Nest 4: Mrs 69 is home!

Another female home | Kielder OspreysDownload

Roudsea Wood: Both adults are back at the nest.

Birds of Poole Harbour: CJ7 got down to business and got rid of Maya’s 2022 daughter, Blue 1H1, and has been getting nicely reacquainted with her mate, Blue 022. These two raised four osplets to fledge – the little one won everyone’s heart for its tenacity!

Loch of the Lowes: Blue NC0 is some great fisher. She is going to be incredible shape.

Colonial Beach Ospreys: A mystery female appeared on the nest on Wednesday.

Sun Coast Ospreys: Sara and Sota have their second hatch.

Lake Murray: At least two attacks on the nest by other ospreys yesterday. Hoping resident ospreys, Kenny and Lucy, are safe.

Blithfield Reserve, UK: Male has returned to the nest.

Bald Eagle News from the Nests:

US Steel: The first hatch is here!

NCTC: Bella had to defend her three eaglets against an intruder. https://youtu.be/Tj64Q6HSD74?

It is possible that one of Bella and Scout’s eaglets is injured. Deb Stecyk reports that it could be puncture wounds. Please send good wishes. https://youtu.be/8KsYYqn5qOU?

Big Bear Valley: The two eaglets are thriving.

Jackie and Shadow brought in 8 fish deliveries. https://youtu.be/UUNNWIsz24k?

Decorah North: Mr and Mrs DNF have a failed season. Their first eaglet tried for five days to free itself of a crushed shell before dying. The second egg is 41 days old today and deemed unviable.

Duke Farms: The triplets still doing very, very well.

Sauces Canyon Eagles: Betty Lou is growing and growing!

West End: The blood from the encounter off camera to save territory is drying on Haku as she stands proudly by Maiko.

Hilton Head Island Trust Eagle Nest: The two eaglets are doing fantastic. https://youtu.be/DOj7tYjk1j0?

Sutton Centre Eagles: They have their second hatch of the season.

Glacier Gardens: The male died last year. Mum was seen ‘eyeing’ a potential new mate in late December. Mum was at the nest on Wednesday.

Kistachie National Forest E3: E03 had at least one prey delivery today. I rewinded late in the day, but the eaglet did appear to have a crop earlier, too. 03 appears to have branched, slightly.

The nest appearance was an empty taloned adult.

Birds and their eggs were rescued from the California wild fires – what a nice ending for today!

Dozens of bird eggs and chicks rescued from collapsing tree in Californiahttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/25/birds-rescued-california?CMP=share_btn_url

Thank you so much for being with us today. Take care. See you soon.

Thank you to those who sent news, for comments, videos, articles, images, posts, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog today: ‘BHA, EJ, Geemeff, H, JK, LDF Golden Eagle Cam, Fox5Vegas, Port of Ridgefield, Birds & Blooms, OspreyInfoUK, Dyfi Osprey Project, Birds of Poole Harbour, Woodland Trust (LOTL), Colonial Beach Ospreys, Moorings Park Ospreys, Sun Coast Ospreys, NCTC, Deb Stecyk, FOBBV, SK Hideaways, Raptor Resource Project/Explore, Duke Farms, IWS/Explore, Hilton Head Island Trust, Sutton Centre, Bartlesville, OK, Patuxent River Park, The Guardian, Crooked Lake, Seaside, Patuxent River Park, Lake Murray ospreys, Kielder Forest

Sunday in Bird World

17 November 2024

Good Morning Everyone,

Two of my four-legged friends who simply light up my day and like those nature walks, they ease some of the worry and challenges. Today, we are worried about Yira who has not been seen in the area since she fledged. This is not good. Why is there not an army searching for her?

Please note: FB has taken down my posts with titles so I am leaving this one plain, but I am sending it out Saturday night because of the issues with Yira and the third chick at Melbourne.

Latest news: The third hatch at Melbourne’s CBD is off the ledge. SK Hideaway has it and Victor Hurley has some remarks. https://youtu.be/2oodK8fVc30?

They love each other sooooo much.

We have cut our feed at X and are at Bluesky. Come and join us there. Give our osprey and friends some likes! @ospreylover.bsky.social

Thanks to our friends in Colorado for the Colorado Low that is set to bring the first snow to Southern Manitoba in 2024. Most of the time when we think of a Colorado Low, we think of a big snow dump. This time it seems we might just get a dusting in Winnipeg. Will keep you posted.

The feeding area for the outdoor cats is nearly complete. To help them through the winter, particularly Brock (the name pulled out of the hat for the outdoor kitty formerly known as The Boyfriend). This morning, he was shivering under one of the patio chairs, waiting for me to wake up enough to put out food. Any remaining foxes or raccoons clear all of the dishes and plates during the night. It has a heated floor which surely will make a huge difference and thankfully one of the two outdoor plugs is very close to where we would put the house. I got the larger size as he dismissed the shelter made for him out of the bins. He might have felt frightened he would be trapped.

If you are interested, my friend ‘S’ sent me this rating chart this morning before I ordered Brock’s heated house. Did you know that Brock is the Old English name for a badger. It kinda fits since they are both black and white.

Our Top 5 Feral Cat Shelter – True Winners Of 2024Download

The other things that we have done to get prepared for winter’s arrival and, oh, gosh, we wish it would wait a few weeks, is to gather up all the toques, scarves, mitts, woolen socks, and heavy boots. They are all ready to go so that we can venture out on our walks in the snow.

Then, after reading a story in The Guardian this morning, Calico and I thought that we should order some books to ready. As many of you are aware, Calico has had ‘story time’ since before I got her into the house. I used to sit on the deck and read and then, when she came inside and was in the small room, I would read to her every time I fed her. If you are trying to socialise a cat it is a wonderful way to get them used to your voice. She has her favourite authors and we read every evening for an hour. It is our ritual and all the others join in, just like children around a fire. It is one of the most beautiful times of the day. The four of them morph into something other than independent felines.

The article we read was about Ronald Blythe, the nature writer from Essex and how is little home is being turned into a sanctuary for education and writers. I am unfamiliar with his work, but after finding good used copies, Calico and I decided to give four of the titles a chance: Akenfield, Portrait of an English Village; Under a Broad Sky, Stout Seasons, and Next to Nature. I do hope she likes his ‘voice’. Calico is very particular and will walk right out of the room. Those books do not get Calico’s Golden Paw Award!

Here is the article about Ronald Blythe. It is inspiring me to think about a small urban house being used for research and writing after I am gone with the proviso that the animals are fed! Now isn’t that a thought?

‘A force for everything he represented’: Ronald Blythe’s home to become nature reserve. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/nov/16/ronald-blythe-home-nature-reserve-akenfield?CMP=share_btn_url

The smile on the face of Mum at Port Lincoln is that she dove from the barge and caught a very very early fish for the kids. Look at the time on the obs board below. Then Dad came in with a fish later from Mum, Wilko, and Kasse. Yes, I am smiling. Mum sure told Dad what for – get off your talons and get these kids some food!!!!!!!!!

That was a really nice fish that Mum caught. I hope she gives some lessons to the kids early on – wow. Could we see them fish off the barge? We used to watch Falkey, do you remember?

Dad incoming! Everyone was doing the talon dance in anticipation of the arrival of another fish.

The third hatch, a nice big female from the looks of it, at 367 Collins Street loafing and looking after trying to scale the side of the building earlier.

She had breakfast at 0620 and then went about her antics. She looks just like Mum save for that one big dandelion on her head. What a healthy eyas – one really ready to get out in the world. I am glad she is waiting, but it looks like she could fly any moment. The time is 0827 in Melbourne on Sunday the 17th.

At Orange, Diamond was on the ledge of the scrape looking out. Is she looking for Yira? Xavier was there, too, at different times.

They are looking for Yira and this makes me incredibly sad. There have been no alarm calls or anything from the parents indicating the presence of their oldest chick who fledge. I am so nervous.

Did you miss Bubba’s fledge at Growing Home? https://youtu.be/-9yBFAZHAi4?

After the extremely sad and disappointing news from ospreys being shot because they are hungry and need some fish, I asked my UK friends to send me instances of where individuals, groups, of businesses have worked to help the osprey. Jeff Kear sent me one of the first. Thank you, Jeff.

One of the others was in a blog a few days ago. You will recall that Iris’s owl pole had to be cut down. But another was put up for Iris and Finnegan and they began to put the lines below ground to help saves the raptors from getting electrocuted.

In the UK, most people know that at Gwash, they discovered that trying to earn a living selling farmed fish was difficult. So instead of fighting with the ospreys who wanted some of the fish in the ponds, Gwash set up a hide for photographers who come from around the world to capture images of osprey catching fish! Maybe our friends in the US might do that instead of shooting them.

There are some people who care about the condition of nests enough to get a ladder and put some wonderful nesting material there for the birds. It wasn’t long after the straw was put in that Friday the stork showed up! Some centres, like Glaslyn, regularly refurbish the nests and check them for safety before the birds return.

Hochstadt, Germany.

Thanks to Tonya Irvin who caught one of those golden moments – looks like a successful mating at NE Florida with Gabby and Beau.

M15 delivered his beautiful mate a rabbit dinner. https://youtu.be/btFrkKxm_0k?

Thank you for being with us today. Please take care. See you soon.

Thank you to the following for their notes, posts, videos, articles, images, and streaming cams that helped me to write my post today: ‘EJ, JK, SC’, The Guardian, Port Lincoln Ospreys, 367 Collins Street by Mirvac, Charles Sturt Falcon Cam, Heidi McGrue, Lyn Brenig, Hochstadt Stork Cam, Tonya Irwin and the NEFL-AEF, Androcat and SW Florida Eagle Cam