UK ospreys – Page 6 – Mary Ann Steggles

Saturday in Bird World

3 May 2025

Good Morning All,

Morning Update: The first hatch of Big Red and Arthur comes in some pouring rain – last I checked the little one is almost free of the egg. BR is keeping it dry!

My Friday newsletter was hacked. Ads originating with Facebook appeared where the information images and posts from the White Rock Eagles should have been. I have sent this to WordPress. At the same time, I am so sorry. I will be removing all information other than my own wording about White Rock today in the event that their posting is ‘infected’ as WP thinks it could be. Please let me know if you see other ads. They should not appear. Thank you, Geemeff and Heidi, for calling this to my attention.

Calico and Hugo Yugo are helping me write to you today. Calico is a typical toddler – the minute their parent gets on the telephone, they want attention and will do anything for it including walking all over the keyboard! Hugo Y is more interested in a large basket that has appeared in the conservatory and Missey has decided, along with Baby Hope, that the best thing to do today is have a nap. The sitting room is clean enough a baby could eat off the floor. There is positively nothing that could go into a puppy’s mouth including the much loved peants in the shell that the girls like to use for hockey late in the day. The deck has been cleared and the feral feeder has been moved. No need for heated bowls anywhere but water will be very welcome as it is to be – yes, hold it, 25 degrees C tomorrow when we pick up Toby. He might need a cooling pad even with the AC in the car. Unbelievable. Winter to what would have been the very heat of summer and it is just May. I fear for our birds this year.

The biggest news of the day is that Bodie flew. Our first miracle of the year has flown. Friday morning. Bodie just up and flew off the nest like a professional.

As I write this, the bird that I love the most, Big Red, the Cornell 22 year old Red-tail Hawk, has her first hatch of the 2025 season underway.

It started raining in Ithaca. I ‘hate’ rain and hatchlings. Yes, to be sure, Big Red and Arthur are perfectly capable of keeping the eggs warm and dry and any hatchling the same. What I dislike is when the cold and the damp set in and take over the next and little ones die of what we might simply call a ‘cold’. It is harder to feed them when it is pitching rain and prey scrambles to keep itself dry, too, so might not be as abundant. Let us hope that the rain subsides.

What was your ‘Spark’ Bird when you first started watching the streaming cams? If you are inclined, I would love to include your initials and your comments in my blog.

‘PB’ wrote that she is enamoured with the little eyases at the San Jose City Hall falcon cam.

What about the little falcons at Lincoln Cathedral? They are darlings!

Most of what I hear, over and over again and in my own head, is the silence at The Campanile and the difficulty in realising that Annie is gone. Those were such beautiful years that she gave us with her mates always raising beautiful fledglings. DDT took them and now it appears HPAI is destroying the remaining numbers.

Will my grandchildren even get to hear the beautiful songs of birds? I wonder.

We have falcons in Canada, too!

There are four little falcons at Union County now! https://youtu.be/Bw1fUWiVJOc?

Salisbury Cathedral:

Tewkesbury: So cute. It has been a very rough year for the eagle families, and the ospreys will have a difficult time. Is it time for us to step up and watch the smaller raptors – the hawks and the falcons?

Duke Farms: Just look at them looking out to their world.

Xcel Energy, Fort St Vrain: Eaglets in heraldic pose. Tried to shade under Mum today. Appear to be doing well.

Two other miracles at the Big Bear Valley nest of Jackie and Shadow are preparing to fly.

Sauces: Betty Lou is one ‘big’ gal! She has done so well and is another of the miracles from 2025 that we should never forget.

Farmer Derek GHO nest of Bonnie, Clyde, and Starr: As you will remember, Starr fludged unexpectedly. She returned to the nest. Androcat has it all on video in case you missed it earlier. https://youtu.be/7A4kOTOF1kg?

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

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Friday 2nd May 2025

Today was mainly quiet apart from Louis & Dorcha being buzzed by a low-flying intruder Osprey. The ringed intruder didn’t land nor did s/he give us a good look at its blue Darvic ring but as it was worn on the left leg, we know it’s a Scottish Osprey. Louis brought two fish to the nest taking his tally to sixty five, and two fish were brought to Nest One taking that tally to thirty three. However, the second fish unusually arrived carried in by Blue 536 rather than by Garry, although it’s suspected he handed it to her off-nest. The weather forecast states light rain and light winds overnight, but keep in mind the nests are exposed at the tops of tall trees so the conditions might not be that light. However the forecast for tomorrow is brighter and drier with light clouds, a gentle breeze, and a few sunny spells.
Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 22.08.52 (04.39.22); Nest Two 22.02.14 (04.44.57)
Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/J5_6QOg7l8I N2 Sweet birdsong greets fish number one 05.23.07

https://youtu.be/WLLCALZOinI N1 Blue 536 gets the first fish from Garry LV0 the second times 05.34 20

https://youtu.be/Cp3WkBSAZ_I N2 Intruder Osprey buzzes Louis & Dorcha10.05.54 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/oKoy1bMp2AY N2 10-second handover for fish number two 15.00.36

https://youtu.be/vF0HagQMSb8 N1 fish number two but it’s B536 who brings it! 16.336.56

Bonus read – what do Rhizocore, Woodland Trust and magic mushrooms have in common?https://www.rhizocore.com/blog-3-1/500000-rhizopellets-planted

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/0Rw_H0C8-SE N1 Owl strike on unsuspecting Aila 2020 (Slo-Mo)

https://youtu.be/JJRPS8QYvpY N1 Lockdown Ospreys star on BBC Breakfast 2020

https://youtu.be/rwa2_9rR24Q N1 WT’s Dr Jessica Maxwell discusses the nest on BBC Breakfast 2020

https://youtu.be/1syQj_jjjxw N2 Golden variation: Dorcha is bathed in the setting sun 2022 (Classic Ospreys Bach)

https://youtu.be/efwVjBqAYpA N2 Gerroff and go fishing! 2023

https://youtu.be/bdcOT9JEGB8 N1: Garry LV0 brings moss, flies to Pole Tree then away 2024 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/GioCl06202I N2: Fish number one and only for Dorcha 2024

https://youtu.be/EKAjiNbY3A0 N2 Shadows seen near the nest at the time of the Eagle encounter 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

White Rock, BC. It is a wonder the two little sweeties are still alive. When food is present, they fight and don’t eat getting only a few bites and then one of the intruding males takes the food. ‘PB’ writes of an incident Saturday evening: “WR 20:18-20:22 the male was on the nest moving material on top of the babies and was pecking them. He did this several times, and on his last peck on the baby’s head, mom yelled at him, and he backed off and then flew away. I’m scared this guy will kill the babies.”

Rutland Manton Bay: We will be on pip watch by the end of the week.

One of the things I am learning about having a puppy is precisely how much I do not know. At the same time, as I read Louise Glazebrooks’s book, One of the most eye-opening experiences of having a puppy is realizing just how much I have yet to learn. As I delve into Louise Glazebrook’s insightful book, “Everything Your Puppy Wants You to Know,” I can’t help but draw parallels to my husband’s journey with dementia.

Here are some essential insights that have significantly shaped my approach:

Never allow people to jump or lean into the carrier with the puppy—it’s crucial for their safety and comfort.
Ensure a calm environment for your puppy; a tranquil setting fosters a happier pet.
Establish a consistent routine; this creates a sense of security for your new furry friend.
Refrain from scolding for accidents; instead, offer praise for good behavior to encourage positive habits.
Invest in high-quality food for your puppies; nutrition is key to their development and health.
Pay close attention to your puppy’s cues—understanding their needs strengthens your bond.
Always ensure they go to the bathroom before breakfast; a simple step that can make a big difference in your day.
Be prepared to sacrifice some sleep; the rewards of companionship and unconditional love are worth it.

These lessons not only enhance my understanding as a pet owner but also serve as reminders of patience, care, and the importance of nurturing relationships.Everything your puppy wants you to know‘, I am reminded of my husband with dementia. Don’t let people jump and lean into them in a carrier. Keep the puppy calm. Establish a routine. Do not scould for accidents. Give praise for things well done. Feed the puppies good food. Listen to what your puppy is saying. Make sure they go to the bathroom before breakfast! Be prepared to lose sleep.

I am smiling. My father always had a dog. Surely I have told you this many, many times. The first was, of course, the three-legged terrier, Trixie. Then there was a Manchester Terrier. Somewhere in the mix was a poodle that my dad just knew I would love. His last dog came from a family that dumped three Doberman puppies next to our fence in a box. People knew my dad would feed any animal or person – he could not stand for anyone to be hungry. Besides the dogs we also had cats. He stayed home from his position at Tinker Airforce Base to help with one female have her kittens. She would press her back legs against the palm of his hands. He would make sure that they were all well and that the garage was secure so the males could not come in and kill the kittens. It was a different time. No one took dogs and cats to the vet to be spayed or neutered. Later, of course, he did. The Doberman’s name was Daisy and she was the most gentle dog I ever met. She rode in the passenger seat of his car and they were never separated until he broke his hip and had to go into hospital. Daisy would have killed anyone who tried to harm my father. Thankfully no one ever did. I tear up just thinking about the two of them together. They were so peaceful, calm, and quiet together. Daisy would sit right next to my dad as he handed the Cardinals and Eastern Bluebirds in his garden. Which reminds me why I started on this – puppies, I now understand, as well as people with demential, also require lots of calm quiet time. No drama. Well, as it turns out nesting birds also need the same!

Country diary: Capercaillies need peace to survive, let’s give it to them | Amanda Thomsonhttps://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/may/02/country-diary-capercaillies-need-peace-to-survive-lets-give-it-to-them?CMP=share_btn_url

I hope that Toby is as happy with our family as Daisy was with my father.

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

Thank you to the following for their notes, messages, posts, videos, articles, and streaming cams that helped me to write my post today: ‘Geemeff, Heidi, PB’, NEFL-AEF, Cornell Bird Lab Red-tail Hawk Cam, San Jose City Hall, Lincoln Cathedral, Canadian Raptor Conservancy, UCFC, Peace, Roger Smith and Salisbury Cathedral, Teweksbury Abby Peregrine Falcons, Duke Farms, Xcel Energy Fort St Vrain Eagles, FOBBV, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust and Loch Arkaig, IWS/Explore, The Guardian, Farmer Derek Owl Cam

Friday in Bird World

2 May 2025

Hello Everyone,

As we prepare for the arrival of Toby, my time is running out. Anything that could fit into a small mouth must go into hiding along with ‘precious’ rugs, shoes, etc. Cords must be taped to the wall so they cannot be seen. It is a big learning curve from having cats! As a result, my blog will be brief for the next several days. I will try to catch the latest news and follow up on the White Rock and Trempealeau eagle nests and any happenings in the UK.

Cornell Red-tail Hawks: On Thursday, Big Red and Arthur have their first pip of the 2025 season.

Here is the video: https://youtu.be/lPqiUSN3wwE?

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum: ‘MP’ alerts us to a new couple on the nest. “I don’t know if you are aware of this nest having 2 new osprey residents. A new male and female. The nest looks amazing compared to the other resident’s nests.”

‘AR’ sent me a great good news story to share with you! One lucky Eagle.

https://www.fox13news.com/news/sarasota-county-man-dives-lake-save-eagle-this-is-symbol-america-man

White Rock, BC Bald Eagle nest. Read this carefully – the female incubated the eggs alone for 42 days. She might be fine if the males would stop stealing the food. Then there is the issue of the heat. This nest needs a sunshade! They are the sweetest little eaglets and well, I do not believe this is going to end well. Maybe all these eagles should take a page out of the osprey playbook from Threave!

The latest post on the White Rock eaglets from Terry Anita:

“

Weird and Wonderful Secondhan

Lord’s Shoes & Apparel

News Feed posts

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Bald Eagles Live Nest Cams and News

Terry Anita · ronsdpteSou2hugui4cu78lc9itlhaliu5h4983cilc65837219m7utc6th0 ·

5/2/25 This is the White Rock, BC, Canada post for today. Please comment here. I’ll be updating & adding screenshots & info throughout the day. Eagles Mom (Dad missing) 2 eaglets. Hatched 4/30/25.

Screenshot 1: The male with the missing feathers above the right eye visits the nest. #2: Mom and male fly out. #3 Eaglets looking good this morning. Mom returns with no food. Male returns, digs in the nest for leftovers, then leaves.

These are believed to be Moms 25th and 26th eaglets. She has a lot of experience. But the circumstances are so difficult. She just spent 42 days incubating alone. And if it wasn’t for the males stealing all the food she brought in. She’d be in a better position, with left overs in the pantry. Local residents have left out grasses for her, to line the nest. But she hasn’t taken them. She’s doing the very best she can. The eaglets are also left alone in full sun on that nest. And are way too young to be able to regulate their temperature. All we can do is keep positive vibes going. This is a very big uphill battle for Mom.

Live cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Suz5R5mBV7s

There are other nests in close proximity. And many bald eagles in the area. There have been several males vying for Mom since Dad went missing. However most of the males seem more intent on taking food from the nest, than anything else. Mom has been tolerant of a few of these males and mated with more than one of them. The area gets a lot of eagles visiting when the herring run takes place. The White Rock, BC herring run typically happens in spring, with the most intense activity usually occurring in early to mid-March. The exact timing is unpredictable, but it generally begins in late February or early March and can continue into April.

We are watching nature unscripted. Should it become distressing to watch. Please step away & take a break.. Please do not try and compare this situation with other nests. No two nests, eagles or circumstances are the same.

Backstory. Mom is not a first time Mom. She’s been in the area for several years. And is believed to have had around 26 hatches, including this seasons eaglets. The male (Dad) went missing shortly after the first egg was laid. That egg was left unattended for over 11 hours and deemed non viable. The second egg was laid. But with her mate missing the female had to incubate the eggs alone. She was obviously gone for long periods of time, multiple times. As she has to find food for herself. The male visitors weren’t bringing her food and had no interest in the eggs. The eggs hatched on 4/30/25.

***Several males have been around, trying to win Mom over.

You might see any one of these males on the nest, usually stealing food. It’s very difficult to distinguish one male from another… A young male “Smudge” with dark feathers on his head just above the beak is one that can be easily recognized.. Smudge has been a frequent visitor… He’s been seen for about the last month and a half, on and off. But had stayed for the past few weeks.. Smudge seemed to be invested and even brought a fish in on 4/30/25.

Update. Smudge was in a fight with another male on the evening of 4/30/25. We are waiting to see if he’ll return. Or if the male he fought with has taken his place.”

Hellgate Canyon: Iris laid the second egg on Thursday 1 May. Poor darling. I would give almost anything to see Finnegan fly onto that nest right now.

Hilton Head Eagles: E1 fledged three days ago. https://youtu.be/nGnlkFIXzbI?

FOBBV: Gizmo and Sunny are really working their wings. https://youtu.be/prd7vuG7xjY?

Heidi’s Osprey Nest Notes:

Kent Island (Chesapeake Conservancy): There’s a new Audrey in town. ‘Fair Lady’ beat out a couple other females and won over Tom, and she laid her first egg on 5/1 at around 11:10. Meet Audrey4, aka simply ‘Audrey’.

OBX (Outer Banks): Oh my, what an early rough start to the season it was for Betsy and Frederick. There were so many intruders and battles. But, finally things settled down and Betsy laid her first egg of the season on 5/1 at 14:07. This first egg is almost a month later than last season.

My inbox continues to be filled with the most devastating news for wildlife that I have witnessed in my lifetime.

Each of you should know the name ‘Wisdom’, the oldest ringed bird in the world, a Laysan Albatross, who nests on the Midway Atoll. So when you read the following, sent in by Geemeff, I want you to think about ‘Wisdom’ and I hope that this will cause you to act to fight against any policies that destroy the lives of those, like Wisdom, who cannot speak for themselves.

Now is Our time!

A Nai’a (Spinner Dolphin) springs forth on Kuaihelani (Midway Atoll) 2025
Photo by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Volunteer Joe Owen

Supporters of Friends of Midway Atoll (FOMA) are needed now more than ever to be the voice for the public lands and waters known as Kuaihelani (the backbone of heaven), which is designated as a National Wildlife Refuge and Battle of Midway National Memorial within the larger Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument (PMNM). The Administration has reduced the federal workforce, is proposing new policies and rescinding long-standing environmental policies, all of which are negatively impacting the ability to conserve, honor and protect our Nation’s public lands and waters.

With these unprecedented challenges, the FOMA Board is committed to sharing specific requests and calls to action via this newsletter and our newly launched advocacy web page here.  Addressing and finding solutions to the critical needs of wildlife and people on Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge/Battle of Midway National Memorial has our sleeves rolled up. We are positioned to help but the need is greater than our current capacity.

One Way to Help

FOMA takes its responsibilities seriously by aligning your donations with priority conservation needs that cannot be met by the refuge. We promise to continue to direct our funds to projects that offer immediate support for wildlife, bridge the financial gaps needed to continue collecting one of the longest sets of seabird data on the planet, share the stories and magic of Midway, and supplement core volunteer functions lost to budget and personnel cuts. As an example, the current refuge volunteer coordinator position will be vacated and unfunded in May. However, your donations have enabled FOMA to fund a volunteer coordinator position to mentor, train, and lead a 4-person crew of 6-month volunteers to implement critical on-the-ground conservation work. This will allow critical work to continue without losing ground to protect species and their habitats.

We are exploring creative ways to support Midway, including directing FOMA funds to pay contractors who can continue to protect habitats from invasive species. After nearly 3 decades of continuous effort, the refuge is close to eradicating Verbesina encloides; and stepping back now is inconceivable. Additionally, we will ensure efforts continue to honor those who fought in the Battle of Midway. We also commit to building a relationship with the PMNM Culturally Working Group while illuminating the cultural significance of Kuaihelani by honoring native Hawaiian species and place names.

Heavy Hearted Farewells

As a result of recent actions by this Administration to reduce the federal workforce, Midway has lost critical operational and administrative staff capacity. In February 2025, Midway Atoll and its sister Hawaiian Islands National Wildlife Refuge lost their supply, shipping and travel logistics coordinator, Dan Link. This is a critical position given the logistics of supporting these remote refuges in Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. On Friday, April 17th Midway Atoll lost its full-time Budget Analyst who managed Midway Atoll’s budget including paying bills, making purchases and supporting large contracts.

Also on April 17th we bid a heavy-hearted farewell to an irreplaceable brain trust in the Pacific Islands Refuges and Monuments Office in Honolulu that provided direct support to Midway Atoll and the other refuges and monuments in the Pacific. We bid farewell to Science Manager for the Pacific Islands Climate Change Cooperative Jeff Burgett, Refuges and Monuments Area Supervisor Ric Lopez, Deputy Area Supervisor Susan White, Supervisory Wildlife Biologist Beth Flint, Biology Science Technician Anna Vallery, Administrative Officer Eloise Wong and Wildlife Biologist Megan Laut (pictured below).

Photo by: USFWS/Laura Beauregard

These individuals were the backbone of the support office for all the National Wildlife Refuges including the Battle of Midway National Memorial and the Marine National Monuments in the Pacific. Their cumulative time spent working at the field level for wildlife (and people too) along with upper level managerial and planning experience is measured in centuries of knowledge, passion, intellect and wisdom. Known throughout the Pacific for their expertise, these now former employees had to secure their files and walk out the door with only a few days’ notice.

The impact of this loss will be felt for decades and has crippled the ability of those remaining to protect Midway and meet the mission of the agency. Unfortunately, this is just the beginning as more staff cuts are anticipated as well as a possible Reduction in Force. Along with budget and staff reductions, Executive Orders to eliminate previous provisions to protect nature further threaten the ability to conserve fish and wildlife in these extraordinary and unparalleled environments.

Imminent Threats to Midway’s Wildlife and What You Can Do!

Unfortunately, these warp speed actions by the Administration are now producing major threats to wildlife and habitat through the dismantling of federal laws protecting the islands, reefs, and waters at PMNM and more urgently at Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument (PIHMNM). This monument encompasses 7 National Wildlife Refuges and protects wildlife that knows no ocean boundaries as they transit in the greater oceanic ecosystem.

Grey reef sharks and schools of anthias in the waters of Jarvis Island, Pacific Remote Island Areas Marine National Monument. President Biden has an opportunity to fully protect the area. (Kelvin Gorospe/NOAA/2017)

In an effort to create a collective strength in numbers, we will continue to highlight the most pressing threats and point to those non-profit organizations protecting these monuments. On our webpage you will find links to recent executive orders or actions that seek public comment. We will also provide clear guidance and helpful tips.

Now is our time to hoist the sails and voyage together. We feel honored to join you and look forward to speaking out together for what we deeply value as we malama (take care of) Kuaihelani.

I Mua!

In the Hawaiian language the words I Mua mean to “move forward” or “move ahead” towards a goal and can express a deep commitment to support a feeling, an idea, a person or a cause.

Mahalo for all your support,
Your Friends of Midway Atoll

friendsmidway@spanchoo

We need to treasure and protect them.

Farmer Derek Kansas Bald Eagle Nest: Continually hit by owl strikes. https://youtu.be/JPBxkZYEXn4?

As many of you might recall, I have praised the wildlife vet, Dr Tess, that has spent the last year at our rehabilitation clinic, Wildlife Haven. She maintains that wildlife are more resilient and can survive with many physical challenges. What this means is that new wildlife vets like Dr Tess are reluctant to simpy euthanise wildlife simply because they are missing a limb or have an inconvenient broken bone. ‘MP’ sent me an example of another surviving nicely in the wild with one leg! They write, “This is an example of what you were talking about. Ron Dudley captured this photo of a Brewer’s Blackbird missing a foot but still able to go on. It didn’t stop her from gathering nesting materiel for her nest. She was just as efficient as the other females. Only the female builds the nest in this species, as you probably know. So, all the males around just sat back and watched. They appear to have big feet too. I thought you’d be interested in seeing it play out in real time.”

Border Ospreys: Samson and Augusta have their first egg of the season!

FIRST EGG Download

San Jose City Hall: There is joy to be found. Look at those crops. Thank you, ‘PB’.

A magnificent rescue!

Trempealeau Bald Eagle Nest: T3 is getting stuffed. Despite male taking food, the little one is doing well. Please send good positive energy.

How thoughtful.

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

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Thursday 1st May 2025
After an absence of a few hours which had us feeling a little edgy in case Blue 536 was ‘doing an Aida’, she turned up on Nest One ready to accept fish and mating advances from Garry LV0, and succeeded in getting both. Just as well, as females need ongoing mating for egg production to be stimulated, and the male needs to deliver a steady supply of fish to keep the female’s interest. Bearing in mind that Aila & Louis met on 28th April, mated for the first time on 29th April and still managed to fledge a chick in time to migrate, this pair are in line with that schedule so there is still an outside chance of chicks on this nest this season. Garry’s three fish deliveries take his tally to thirty one, and over on Nest Two, Louis also delivered three fish to Dorcha, raising his tally to sixty three. There was a bit of rain today, but the Inver Mallie forecast for tonight and tomorrow is more settled, with light clouds and light breezes.

Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 22.08.23 (04.37.31); Nest Two 22.03.42 (04.43.17)
Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/ilG9n0vf8YE N1 Garry LVO brings a fish to the empty nest 05.06.50

https://youtu.be/jIX9worErpA N2 Dorcha stays on the nest to dine on the first fish 11.02.05 https://youtu.be/gHoeec_K298 N1 Successful mating after a short absence 11.29.39

https://youtu.be/CggxUpYOh3M N1 Another successful mating 11.51.15 https://youtu.be/vfGb0sFlXtk N2 Dorcha does a grab and go with the second fish 13.39.56https://youtu.be/EfXhITns0qo N1 Blue 536 grabs the second fish immediately 14.16.16 https://youtu.be/ym2B_bnn8SA N1 Fish number three is very well travelled! 16.23.16 https://youtu.be/iHguhJna2Os N2 Dorcha wastes no time taking the third fish 19.04.28

Bonus lesson – how to pronounce Dorcha’s name:
https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/torridon/Easandorcha.shtml

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/l-f7VaXK21A N1 Two red deer graze near the nest 2020

https://youtu.be/fnHg9LxETHA N1 Louis pays a flying visit 2021 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/wE6nWxP8JTU N2 Dorcha’s third egg arrives just after midnight 2022

https://youtu.be/w3jSNo9VC3g N1 Affric & Prince are back with moss! 2022

https://youtu.be/KiQW-kUOBnM N2 Louis is oblivious as a bat flits around 2022

https://youtu.be/iF-53Y6h0IA N2 Dorcha’s finally able to persuade Louis to leave 2022

https://youtu.be/7fF-jH2_83k N2 Dorcha tells Louis off for taking so long 2023

https://youtu.be/0wwxhyiiz24 N1 Aida arrives with the sunrise, Garry is heard but not seen 2024

https://youtu.be/oHU-qlnE6lQ N2 Intruder flying nearby causes Dorcha & Louis to flee the nest 2024 (slo-mo repeat with zoom)

https://youtu.be/8mdWTR5kpcE N1 Garry LV0 brings a fish but Aida’s not there 2024 (zoom)

Thank you so much for being with me today. Take care. We hope to see you soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, comments, posts, letters, videos, and streaming cams that helped me to write my post today: ‘AR, Geemeff, Heidi, MP, PB’, Cornell Red-tail Hawk Cam, Cornell Bird Lab, Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Fox News, Hilton Head Eagles, FOBBV, SK Hideaways, Friends of Midway Atoll, Pukaha National Wildlife Centre, Farmer Derek Kansas City Bald Eagle Nest, San Jose City Hall, Deborah Victoriana Friends of Duke Farms, Raptor Resource Project, Kent Island, OBX, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust

Thursday in Bird World

1 May 2025

Good Morning Everyone,

It is May! The grass is getting green. There are buds on the trees and our favourite market garden opened for the season on Wednesday. Everyone was so happy and couldn’t help but let that spill over to saying hello to everyone! Fantastic. Happiness is contagious.

The White Crowned Sparrows have returned form their migration and spent the morning scratching in the garden. Lovely to have them back.

We are getting ready to pick up Toby on Saturday. Yes, there has been a name change! Yesterday we connected with some neighbours on our walk that had small dogs. It is going to be fun! Toby passed his vet check on Wednesday except for a tiny hernia which will be repaired when he is fixed.

We also noticed how many birds are now nesting in a type of evergreen, a small upright one, since the large elm trees have been cut down in our neighbourhood. Today we are going out to get several of these trees. They grow fast and will give some added protection for our garden friends including the rabbits that like to hide under them.

Hugo Yugo wants to wish everyone a wonderful May Day from her favourite spot in the house. No worries about Toby jumping up there.

Heidi sends some nest news for us:
Osoyoos osprey nest: The first egg of the season was laid on 4/30 at 21:27.

South Cape May: Congratulations to Hera and Zeus on their second egg, laid on 5/1 at 07:37.

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

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Wednesday 30th April 2025

This day last year was all about Aida, the ten-day wonder we thought would be Garry LV0’s mate but who disappeared as soon as she was given a name! Things look very different on Nest One this year however, as Blue 536 arrived on 18th April and has not only allowed Garry to mate successfully with her but has also brought nesting materials and shown Affric 152 the door when she came calling. Garry brought two fish to the nest, taking his tally to twenty eight. However, something unseen caused him to startle and fly off the empty nest with the second fish, dragging bits of bedding as he went. There was no sign of Blue 536 and no intruder caught on nest cam. The residents of Nest Two continued calmly, no alarms, just routine, with three fish delivered by Louis raising his tally to fifty nine. We are now potentially three weeks away from first hatch. The weather was settled and sunny but light rain is expected tonight through to mid morning, and cloudy for the rest of the day.
Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 22.03.57 (04.19.43); Nest Two 22.02.10 (04.38.42)
Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/Jne_dpBphq0 N2 Dorcha departs with the first fish in a beak hold 09.21.29https://youtu.be/SsW5LJKZSBk N1 Garry LV0 brings Blue 536 the first fish of the day 11.00.50https://youtu.be/VEXgE-ScSkQ N2 Is this second fish a Brown Trout or a Silver Tourist? Dorcha doesn’t mind which! 13.48.54

https://youtu.be/5XmPB_jp2N8 N1 Why does Garry LV0 flee the empty nest with fish number two? 19.43.35

https://youtu.be/s52rukepjLI N2 DeliverLouis: A nice fish supper arrives for Dorcha 19.54.11

Bonus listen – latest Woodland Walks podcast from Adam Shaw about another Woodland Trust temperate rainforest like Arkaig Forest:

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/ZIC6oJaL_EM N1 Cheeky Hoodie annoys Louis 2017

https://youtu.be/tg86hWM2aIA N1 Is it the Tawny Owl disturbing Aila? 2020

https://youtu.be/PoQ1BlwQBTE N1 Little plucker! Aila’s drastic action to make Louis move 2020

https://youtu.be/dDUQS2FK7Yw N2 Shouldn’t laugh but.. poor Dorcha! 2022

https://youtu.be/PhoMl4grLhI N2 Louis removal aids! 2023

https://youtu.be/Rwc5CsbBa3w N1 She’s back and she’s got a name – meet Aida! 2024

https://youtu.be/5wDe16_t_eE N1 Aida gets a fish from her boyfriend Garry 2024

https://youtu.be/3rZnQ5f8Qn4 N1 Aida seems willing, Garry makes several attempts but no success yet 2024

https://youtu.be/k5rxoSg2D44 N2 Intruder Osprey touches down next to Dorcha 2024 (slo-mo repeat)

https://youtu.be/RU2k7NeBRZ8 N1 Aida screams for fish but Garry’s eaten it all 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

White Rock, BC: Well, the new male, Smudge, is pitching in! Can we hope that these two little eaglets that recently hatched will survive? Wishing for another nest that is compromising for the good of the hatchlings.

Little sweeties being fed by Mum.

San Jose City Hall: Cuteness overload. https://youtu.be/jbOL_HuRLbQ?

Trempeauleau Nest, Wisconsin: It is an eagle nest that I am watching closely so these are all the updates I can find.

Rutland Manton Bay Previous Fledgling: Oh, my goodness 3H3 is really making the rounds!

Great Bay Ospreys:

Charlo, Montana: Lola showing off her egg.

Hellgate Canyon: Beautiful, resilient Iris.

Sandpoint: The Canada Geese have left the property and it appears that Keo has flown by a couple of times to check and see if the property is indeed vacated.

All of the goslings made it to the water safely!

Loch of the Lowes: We now have what appears to be a stable pair on Blue NC0 and Laddie’s nest:

Denton Homes: ‘PB’ sent a great image of a dual feeding Wednesday.

Farmer Derek’s GHO Cam: Starr fludged Tuesday night. Androcat has the mishap on video: https://youtu.be/7A4kOTOF1kg?

German White Storks: ‘TU’ sends us news: “German white storks Sissi and Franz had 4 eggs and few attacks on the nest. Few of them happened even at night time so we could see battles in black and white ) So 3 chicks hatched the same day!” https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10049613998422033&set=pcb.1375529173713873

Kakapo Recovery: Great news.

Common pesticides are killing gorgeous Corellas in Australia. It could happen anywhere.

https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/apr/30/fenitrothion-cased-mass-bird-death-little-corellas-newscastle-nsw-epa-confirms-ntwnfb?CMP=share_btn_url

Please turn the lights off!

If you live in Manitoba, consider heading to the Baby Shower at Wildlife Haven in late May.

Thank you for being with us today. Please take care. 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, Heidi, PB, TU’, Wildlife Haven, Ross Ellet, Kakapo Recovery, German White Stork Cam, Farmer Derek, Denton Homes, Sandpoint, Montana Osprey Project, Raptor Resource Project, Diana Lambertson and The Joy of Ospreys, Evelyn Bardoul, SK Hideaways, Terri Anita and White Rock BC Eagles, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust, SCMM, Osoyoos Osprey Platform, Jeff Kear and UK Osprey Info, Rutland Osprey Project

Wednesday in Bird World

30 April 2025

Good Morning Everyone,

It is a special day for Aran at Glaslyn today! They write, “Roll back to April 30 2015. On this day ten years ago Aran landed on the Glaslyn nest for the very first time, when the original male 11(98) failed to return. He arrived just in time and raised two chicks with Mrs G that year. Ten years on and the situation at the nest is no less dramatic!” Well, done Aran.

It feels like winter hit us again! The sky is blue and the sun is shining but it is cold. The central heating is back on and my friend, who was going to put the pump in her pond, has decided to wait til the end of May!

Still, we have wildfires, and this one does not please me. It is about 20 km north of Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. I go to Delta Research to see the birds, and there is an eagle family that has their nest there, which would be close to where the fires are burning.

Some Ospreys continue to arrive in Canada. It feels late, but I am not certain that it is. Will have to check the forms one day.

Snow Lane, Newfoundland: Beaumont is home. We wait for Hope.

FOBBV: Beautiful video of Sunny and Gizmo. Please savour every second we have with them. Soon they will fly and while that is their destiny, what little miracles and what amazing joy they have brought to us, to their parents Jackie and Shadow, and to one another. https://youtu.be/I4WMS9H3HrQ?

‘TU’ sends us some news: “WTE couple from Tatarstan in Russia got their chick and we hope it will be a good season. Couple of booted eagles in the same region have 2 eggs, second appeared yesterday. But as we remember for booted eagles in Spain it was always bad story for the small eaglet.”

Sad news coming out of Hancock Wildlife White Rock Bald Eagle nest:

Why can’t these chicks be moved to another nest for fostering? Or can we have intervention in the form of supplementary fish until the eaglets are old enough for Mum to leave them to go hunting? Or, pray tell, why, knowing the situation, were the eggs not moved to another nest to be hatched and raised? If you haven’t guessed by now, I believe firmly in intervention when it can occur and when there is a chance of a better outcome than watching two little eaglets starve to death.

Hellgate Canyon. Don’t pass out. Iris needed a break and probably some fish and look who came to take care of the egg. Am I dreaming?

The egg was rained on and rolled by Louis and then the Raven took it.

Beautiful Iris and her whopper of a fish.

Charlo Montana: Charlie and Lola have their first egg of the season.

Salisbury Cathedral Falcons:

Cornell Red-tail Haw cam of Big Red and Arthur: We are on pip watch.

Most of us are aware that Murphy the Eagle died some time ago. I received today and I thought I would put all of the information that was sent to me with the question by the reader: “Tragedy struck on a stormy weekend. Violent weather swept through Missouri, and Murphy was found dead in his aviary. Authorities reported that the severe storms and tornadoes that passed near the area played a role in his untimely demise. As First Alert 4 reports, a full necropsy later revealed that he sustained significant head trauma. The sanctuary stated they could not determine if the trauma resulted from a fall or from the fierce winds and heavy precipitation. This uncertainty adds to the sorrow felt by wildlife lovers and local residents alike. Additional reports highlighted the unpredictability of nature. Officials explained that Murphy had weathered many storms during his long life. Yet this particular outbreak proved too much for him. KTVI reports that his death came as a shock not only to the staff at the sanctuary but also to a community that had followed his journey closely. The sanctuary confirmed that no other birds were injured during the incident. They stressed that their safety plans had prevented further harm, though Murphy’s case remained an unfortunate exception.”

So the question is: with the reasonable accurate weather forecasting, why are not raptors and other animals/birds moved inside until the storms have passed? Sadly, I do not know the answer to this question but with climate change the increasing frequency of severe weather, one would think, if funds and staff are available, that all animals would be removed to a safe place until the storm had passed. I think here of the evacuations that occur throughout Florida.

Achieva Credit Union: According to MP, Jack and Jill are being harassed by some very persistent Blue Jays. There it is up on the perch. That Blue Jay is lucky that ospreys only like fish!

Sydney Sea Eagles: Lady and Dad have been photographed.

Heidi’s Nest Notes (please note that she does not cover every nest in the US nor every nest daily, just highlights):

South Cape May Meadows osprey nest: The camera was down for the better part of a few days. It was live streaming again late afternoon of 4/27 for just a couple of hours, and there were no eggs seen. When the cam resumed again on the morning of 4/29 at 07:30, Hera was incubating one egg. So, the egg could have been laid as early as the evening of 4/27, or on 4/28, or overnight on 4/29. Just in case, we should be on egg watch for egg #2 by the afternoon or evening of 4/30.

While the live stream was down, a motion-sensing infrared night light was installed for the purpose of helping us see when there is activity in the dark. The GHO has had a significant presence at the nest all season so far. Please see the following chat posts from the Nature Conservancy of New Jersey, to explain what has been done to try to deter the owl:

_______________

Lake Murray ospreys: It looks as though Lucy will not have any chicks from this clutch of eggs. Lucy laid 3 eggs and one of them broke on 3/29 (not known which egg). Her mate, Kenny, was usurped by the current male on 3/27-3/28. The new male (named Newman) has been bringing Lucy fish, and he has also been doing some incubating. Even if we go out on a limb and say that the two remaining eggs are egg #2 and egg #3, they are ages 44 and 41 days on 4/30, and no sign of a pip.

4/30 – The Frenchman’s Creek chick fledged this morning at 57 days of age! That first flight happened at 09:50, and s/he returned to the nest in just over a minute.

At Syracuse University, two of the Red-tail Hawk eggs hatched on Monday.

Geemeff writes: “Every time I hear anything at all on the subject of hen harrier persecution, my teeth start to ache from being ground very hard. What is it about this amazing bird that causes the idiots with guns who like to kill for ‘fun’ to persecute it so relentlessly? Surely the bird can’t be taking more than one grouse per day in breeding season? Given that the sport shooting industry raise and release around fifty million game birds annually simply to be shot, the very low numbers of hen harriers in the UK can’t begin to make a dent in those numbers. Even if each hen harrier took two or even ten a day, it still wouldn’t affect the vast numbers of game birds reared merely to be killed and most often not even eaten as they’re riddled with toxic lead shot.

It makes me ashamed to have a government that protects the so called ‘sport’ shooting industry.”

https://raptorpersecutionuk.org/2025/04/28/138-hen-harriers-confirmed-missing-or-illegally-killed-in-uk-since-2018-most-of-them-on-or-close-to-grouse-moors/

Geemeff continues, “And another four satellite-tagged Hen Harriers have gone missing since the beginning of this year”:

https://raptorpersecutionuk.org/2025/04/28/four-more-satellite-tagged-hen-harriers-have-gone-missing-since-january-2025/

Thank you, Geemeff. You are absolutely right. Anyone who wants to begin to understand just needs to read any of the many books on the topic, but I particularly like Bowland Beth.

And, sadly, it is not just your government. The cutting of funding to rangers, changes to the migratory bird act in the US, etc, make life for all wildlife very precarious. I am embarrassed and infuriated. We all should be.

Falcons and other birds need them to survive. Can we not figure out a way to get along with pigeons?

Ruffling feathers on the allotment | Brief letters https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/apr/27/ruffling-feathers-on-the-allotment?CMP=share_btn_url

Calico’s Tip for Everyone: It’s Migration. Turn out the Lights. Ask your cities and towns to turn them off!

Trempeauleau: Mrs T at Trempeauleau Bald Eagle nest in Wisconsin is incredible. She is going to raise this little eaglet of hers to fledge. I can feel it. The baby is getting its thermal down, and there must be fish ready. Just about as soon as she catches one, or in this case, brings what appears to be a road kill possum and a fish, Mr T comes to get it to take it to the other nest. Regardless, things are going well for now. Let us all send positive wishes that they continue to do so. Is he lazy? Opportunistic? This is his eaglet, too!

Video of Mr T stealing a possum Mum brought in and then a fish. https://youtu.be/KaGPMBaL-dg?

Great Bay Ospreys: Egg #2, 4/29 at 20:05.

Xcel Fort St Vrain: Two surviving babies are doing well.

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

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Tuesday 29th Apr 2025An exciting day today on Nest One where it looks like Garry LV0 and Blue 536 have mated successfully, not once but at least three times today. Furthermore, as if to fully claim possession of the nest (and Garry!), Blue 536 brought a stick to add to the furnishings. He brought her two fish taking his tally to twenty six. We wait to see how things progress, but it’s looking very good for finally having a resident pair on Nest One

since she arrived on Friday 18th April. Over on Nest Two, Louis and Dorcha went about their usual business of giving and receiving fish and taking turns incubating the eggs, and Louis’ two fish deliveries take his tally to fifty seven. Tonight’s forecast is for clear skies and light winds, and a sunny day with gentle breezes tomorrow.
Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 22.10.49 (04.47.08); Nest Two 22.25.41 (04.52.28)

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/IVnRt58Tuws N1 At last! Successful mating between Blue 536 and Garry LV0 05.13.00https://youtu.be/rOUzWiOpTpI N2 Dorcha’s keen to tear into fish number one 05.47.04https://youtu.be/Rqv12H8GHP0 N1 Handover of fish one is interrupted by an unseen intruder 10.44.31

https://youtu.be/NA39q-kBs_0 N1 Blue 536 accepts the tiny tail end of fish number two 16.50.59

https://youtu.be/il6HhuVaY2s N2 Dorcha’s happy to see Louis with fish number two 18.38.15

Bonus action – a significant, lasting way you can support Woodland Trust and stand up for trees:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/support-us/give/gift-in-will

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/rxYqoHxXPMY N1 Louis coy-mantles for Aila 2017

https://youtu.be/wO972vIFy8U N1 First mating for Louis & Aila 2017

https://youtu.be/shhxI4hywlY N1 Tawny Owl attacks Aila 2020 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/rYQg6ow0Krg N1 Aila helps Louis log on 2020

https://youtu.be/TCoPSKsYP4w N1 Aila chases an intruder leaving the eggs unattended 2020

https://youtu.be/5zVFnXl94p8 N1 Affric & Prince return 2022

https://youtu.be/h0lIyo4MYQw N1 The Art of Weave 2023 (Classic Ospreys: Bach in quicktime)

https://youtu.be/FoF0b5rBZ4s N2 Dorcha’s glad to see Louis bringing breakfast 2024

https://youtu.be/_ptnXEqz0JI N1 Fish number one for Garry’s potential girlfriend 2024

https://youtu.be/en2jZLwlbtg N1 Garry LV0 tries and fails mating with his new female friend 2024

https://youtu.be/KgbhdQWyOZE N2 Dorcha’s not interested when a third fish arrives 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

Dyfi: Mark the 17th of May for pip watch for Idris and Telyn.

Thank you so much for being with us today. Please take care. 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: ‘BHA, Geemeff, Heidi, PB, SB, TU’, Bywyd Gwylld Glaslyn, SK Hideaways, Newfoundland Power, Terry Anita and Bald Eagles Live Nest News and Cams, Montana Osprey Project/Cornell Bird Lab, Raptor Resource Project, Salisbury Cathedral Falcons, Eagle Cam, Cornell Red Tail Hawk Cam, The Guardian, Raptor Persecution UK, Achieva Credit Union, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, Trempealeau Bald Eagles, Peace, Xcel Fort St Vrain, SCMM, Lake Murray Ospreys, Frenchman’s Creek, Dyfi Osprey Project

Tuesday in Bird World

29 April 2025

Hello Everyone,

It was positively freezing on Monday. After sorting through the winter boots, coats, hats, and scarves from spring, we now find ourselves digging into the old closet to grab a jacket. Don had his phlebotomy appointment today. So, what is that? It means his body cannot eliminate iron properly. What’s particularly curious to us and his doctors is that the excess iron lodges in his brain. The nurses extract a litre of blood monthly to lower his iron levels. Additionally, I cannot use anything containing iron, such as cast iron pans or foods high in iron (those lovely grapes!). I’ve noticed that his thinking seems clearer afterwards. I have requested they review the literature to investigate any correlation between Hemochromatosis (excess iron in the blood) and Lewy Body Dementia. I even asked if they could flush the iron out of his brain.

Everyone is getting ready for Saturday when we will pick up the little puppy. I had considered naming him after my dad -Clyde. But, the more I look at him, the more he becomes a ‘Toby’. Something easy to say and hopefully easy to remember. Toby will be the size of the cats and smaller than Calico. Will they get along? Toby has grown up with other dogs, cats, and small children. So fingers crossed! Toby is not just a ‘pet’. He is a therapy dog for Don. Whether it is the walks in the woods, the feeding of the chickadees, the restrictions on daily activities, everything that I do for Don is to try and improve his life. Toby is just one more tool in that toolkit. Everyone is getting ready for Saturday when we will pick up the little puppy. I had initially considered naming him after my dad, Clyde. However, the more I look at him, the more he seems like a ‘Toby’ to me. It’s a name that is easy to say and hopefully easy to remember. Toby will be about the size of the cats and smaller than Calico. Will they get along?

Toby has been raised with other dogs, cats, and small children, so fingers crossed! Toby is not just a pet; he is a therapy dog for Don. Everything I do for Don—whether it’s taking walks in the woods, feeding the chickadees, or accommodating daily activity restrictions—is aimed at improving his quality of life. Toby is just one more tool in that toolkit.

The animals outside are doing well, but this morning I only counted four grey squirrels, which causes me some anxiety. Otherwise, there are two reds, one male Hairy Woodpecker, one male Downy Woodpecker, 9 Chickadees, 2 Crows, and 2 Blue Jays. Brock and Squishy come to the feral feeder daily. I saw Star once on the IR in the middle of the night several days ago.

I am so grateful that SK Hideaways put together a tribute to our dear Annie at The Campanile on the campus of University of California-Berkeley. Get some tissues!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you! https://youtu.be/BdaB7xKYCYc?

Hellgate Canyon: We anticipated this would happen. If the Ravens do their job, Iris’s hormones will soon settle down, allowing her to enjoy a relaxing spring and summer retreat before migrating south to her winter home. Without any chicks to raise, she will quickly regain her strength after laying those eggs. The time for the first was 10:36 on Tuesday.

I feel for her. No male to bring her a fish. No on there to cheer her on. And as Louis gets busy with Star, well, she won’t even have his daily visit. Indeed, Iris did not leave her precious egg once, not once, despite being hungry. Louis did nothing but come and mate right after she had laid that egg. How difficulty would it be for him to bring her a fish. It is afterall his chick!

At the same time, I am so very grateful to have seen her have a dutiful mate in Finnegan last year and raise two chicks to fledge. She was a superb Mum. It is something that I will never forget.

Cornell Bird Lab caught the laying of the first egg on video: https://youtu.be/MozAdjcDKLw?

‘A’ writes: “Isn’t Iris exquisite? She spends her days lying on her nest unless she is off fishing. Speaking of which, her legs and feet look SO strong. I am sad that Finnegan has not returned, if only because it suggests something bad has happened to him. I suspect he would have returned to his Iris had he been able to do so. He seemed very attached to her last season and really looked after her. I remember him coming down to the nest in a rainstorm and trying to keep Iris and the osplets warm by covering her with one wing. He loved her. So it saddens me greatly to think of why he has not returned to Hellgate. How I wish they would band or even track some of these well-known birds – they have huge fan bases after all and doesn’t money talk in this world?”

Heidi’s Nest Notes of US Ospreys:

The Bridge Club osprey nest: Mom laid their third egg at 10:32 on 4/28. I’m not sure if this is the same female as last year, but last season Mom laid four eggs.

Cape Henlopen State Park osprey platform: This male is a rockstar! We don’t know his story, but in my opinion, he has done this before. There are no telltale signs of him being a young inexperienced male. He knows the ropes! Today M brought fish to F four times, he brought in nesting materials 8 times (4 sticks, 4 gobs of soft nesting), and they mated 7 times (not including 2 additional attempts). F is one lucky gal!

Trempealeau: Mr T came and took the food off the nest last night. Mrs T went and got two more fish for her and little T3 Monday morning.

Little T3 valiantly defended the nest against a squirrel while Mum was out fishing.

Tuesday morning, ‘PB’ reports that Mr T took both fish before Mum or T3 could eat! Sorry. Why couldn’t he have left one of them!!!!!!!!

Teweksbury Abbey Falcons: We are on Pip Watch.

Little Miami Conservancy: Eaglets going to bed with huge crops Monday night.

Still waiting for the goslings to hatch at the Decorah Goose Cam.

Ospreys at the nest at Salt Point. The water was a little rough – ospreys need really calm water in order to have success fishing – today.

Kielder Forest has some news.

Mainly intruder news _ Kielder Ospreys Download

At Rutland, folks are getting anxious. These are the dates for those four eggs: Today is day 27 since the first of 4 Osprey eggs were laid on the Rutland Manton Bay nest – 2nd April, – 5th April, – 8th April, – 11th April.

Frenchman’s Creek: The Only Bob is certainly getting some height with its hovering!

Moorings Park: Ozzie hatched on the 9th of March and he is ready to soar into the skies! Harry and Sally raise the most beautiful chicks.

Wetlands: Diana Lambertson reports that the couple have three eggs.

Sandpoint: Will Keo and Keke retake their nest once the goslings jump?

From the peeps, it looks like they might have all hatched.

San Jose City Hall Scrape: Monty and Hartley’s babies are full and ever so cute.

A great feeding! https://youtu.be/jbOL_HuRLbQ?

Sauces: The perfect family.

Lodz: So windy the female falcon got blown off her eggs.

US Steel: USS8 has all its juvenile feathers and is doing well.

Loch of the Lowes: Looks like a failed nest for 2025. Eggs are normally laid by the end of April. Chicks generally hatch late May or early June. Chicks are sometimes ringed at approximately 5 weeks- early to mid July. Chicks fledge at about 7 weeks old- generally late July. It is just getting too late to hope.

Golden Gate Audubon: Richmond and Rosie have two eggs. The first egg was laid on April 21, and the second on April 18, 2025. A third egg may have been laid, but it’s not confirmed in all reports.

Collins Marsh: There appears to be no activity at the osprey platform.

Cardinal Land Conservancy: Growing and Growing.

RSPB Loch Garten: No Sign of Asha since the 25th. A new female is interested in the nest and it appears Brodie might be keen. We wait.

Glaslyn: The air is tense at the Glaslyn nest. Elen and Aran appear to not really be bonding in the way that they were last season. The single egg is still in the nest and most believe it is Teifi’s. Aran has not routed it. Aran needs to eat but if he goes fishing will Teifi come? Will he lose his nest? What a nest mess!

Glaslyn responds Tuesday: “It is now one week since Aran began the battle to regain the nest from KC6/Teifi. Teifi continues to intrude at the nest, but Elen now sees him as a threat to the nest rather than a potential mate and works with Aran to drive Teifi away from the nest.

The fourth egg is still being incubated by Elen, but is ignored by Aran. Elen is unlikely to be responsive to Aran’s attempts to mate her while the egg remains in the nest. At the moment there is still time for the pair to produce a second clutch of eggs. We can only continue to watch and learn.”

Duke Farms: Will they fledge on the same day?

Xcel Energy Fort St Vrain: Just look at these little babies. It was not that long ago that we worried we would lose them.

Denton Homes: There are storms all around the nest and the nest is rocking. Send good thoughts to this family.

OPPD Fort Calhoun: Weather has not hit the nest so far.

San Jose City Hall Falcon Scrape: That little four is doing very well. https://youtu.be/jbOL_HuRLbQ?

Worcester Peregrines: Second eyas has hatched and the third egg has a nice pip as of Tuesday.

Geemeff’s Daily Summary for the Woodland Trust and Loch Arkaig:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Monday 28th April 2025

Another quiet day, on Nest Two Dorcha endured a wet and windy night and an equally wet day today, but was largely undisturbed although an intruder Osprey was seen in the distance when Louis delivered his only fish. His tally now stands at fifty five. Over on Nest One, Garry LV0 and Blue 536 spent a little time on the nest together, there were some mating attempts and a bit of nest tidying, and one fish was delivered taking Garry’s tally to twenty four. While we await information on Blue 536’s background, tonight’s bonus guide to aging Ospreys by their plumage might come in handy. The weather forecast is much brighter with light winds overnight and full sunshine tomorrow.

Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 22.00.00 (04.54.34); Nest Two 21.54.37 (05.01.37)

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/ZtJpeuRvz_Y N2 Intruder Osprey in the distance when Louis brings the first fish 12.21.53

https://youtu.be/19GIHmEPZP8 N1 Garry LV0 brings fish number one and Blue 536 takes it eventually 15.18.57

Bonus read – guide to ageing Ospreys by their plumage:

https://www.raptoridentification.com/raptor/western-osprey

Blast from the past – this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/tqPb1AiSy7Q N1 Comedy as Louis can’t land a large log 2020

https://youtu.be/T4Z9VmzL130 N1 Aila uses her Louis-removal technique 2020

https://youtu.be/zBSV3MH-9XI N1 A thin unringed female touches down 2023

https://youtu.be/TwlnBA6Kyhs N1 An unringed male lands, is it Louis? 2023

https://youtu.be/qztPfcf4B2M N2 Tug of sticks – mind the eggs please! 2023

https://youtu.be/VXBMGKtIP7Y N1 Garry LV0 pays a quick visit 2024

https://youtu.be/S5UeAmvJ59s N1 An unringed female appears and takes Garry’s fish! 2024

https://youtu.be/VdVTosK8JRE N1 Unringed female returns to Nest One with a rainbow in the background 2024 (zoomed)

https://youtu.be/M7sjCoAxYy8 N2 Intruder Osprey disturbs Dorcha 2024 (zoomed)

https://youtu.be/r7ujjSqFD7g N1 Garry LV0 gives his new girlfriend a second fish 2024

Special blast from the past – When Aila met Louis: they got together for the first time on this day in 2017, here’s their first season:

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

The killing of Hen Harriers near the beaten grouse moor estates in Scotland has esalated.

138 hen harriers confirmed ‘missing’ or illegally killed in UK since 2018, most of them on or close Download

Conversations surrounding protecting and caring for our planet and its diverse life forms are undeniably political. As my premier and our soon-to-be prime minister champion the establishment of additional national and provincial parks to preserve our environment, another government is determined to dismantle the hard-won advances achieved over many decades. Understanding why logging and mining are strictly banned in national parks is vital—they are essential safeguards for our natural heritage and future. It is up to the people to cry out so loudly that the 9th of April declaration will also halt the shooting of migratory bird populations. As someone who treasures outdoor spaces and all the living creatures that live in them, who has fought for their protection here and elsewhere, I am simply ill.

I want to close with something that has worried and touched our hearts for many years – the Achieva Osprey Platform. One of my long time readers and a keen observer of this nest has worn their computer out writing to people to help. A recent letter was sent to Connor O’Brien with Window to Wildlife. This is part of that response. If you live in St Petersburg, why not take up the baton and with what Connor is saying get on the phone and try to get some help for these lovely ospreys!

This was Connor’s response:

“I’ve heard about this nest, and I’ve been advising a very passionate person on how to get state law enforcement involved. I’m hopeful that it will help. From my understanding, it seems to be a fairly easy fix.

Sadly, it’s not a nest we could afford to take over. If the company reached out to us to work on it, we could help or advise them. At the end of the day, this company should fix it and make it safe. The state government should enforce that as well, since it is a man-made nest.”

Connor is referring to Achieve Credit Union and I find it interesting that he also refers to law enforcement. Please help if you can by writing to anyone in the St Petersburg area.

Thank you so very much or being with us today. Please take care. See you soon.

Thank you to the following for their notes, comments, posts, videos, articles, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog today: ‘A, Geemeff, Heidi, MP, PB’, SK Hideaways, Montana Osprey Project/Cornell Bird Lab, Raptor Resource Project/Cornell Bird Lab, Little Miami Conservancy, Salt Point Osprey Cam, Kielder Forest, LRWT, Frenchman’s Creek, Moorings Park Osprey, Wetlands, Sand Point, San Jose City Hall, Lodz, PixCams, Cardinal Land Conservancy, Bywyd Gwylld Glaslyn, Duke Farms, Geemeff and the Woodland Trust, Golden Gate Audubon, Collins Marsh, Raptor Persecution UK, Xcel Energy, Denton Homes, Denton Homes, OPPD Fort Calhoun, Worcester Peregrines, Teweksbury Falcons, IWS/Explore, Cape Henlopen State Park, RSPB Loch Garten

Saturday in Bird World

26 April 2025

Good Morning Everyone,

It was a gorgeous spring day on Friday the 25th of April on the Canadian prairies and it is just as nice today. We drove a friend to Wildlife Haven (our great rescue and rehabilitation clinic) to drop off donations of supplements, enrichment items, and clean sheets and towels. They are all intended for Baby Days celebration which happens on the 24th of May.

If you live in the area, here is the information:

Wildlife Haven in Ile des Chênes, MB, is hosting its third annual Wild Baby Shower on Saturday, May 24th, 2025, from 1 PM to 3 PM. The event aims to support the care of orphaned, sick, and injured wildlife during their peak baby season. Attendees can enjoy interactive games, prizes, and meet Wildlife Ambassadors. There will also be guided hospital tours, a baby-themed photo booth, and a gift table for wild babies.

The Wild Baby Shower is a chance to support Wildlife Haven’s mission of saving wild animals. Attendees can make a donation or bring a gift from the registry, which includes items like specialized food, warmth, and medical supplies, according to MyRegistry.com. Wildlife Haven anticipates admitting over 750 wild patients during their peak season, so any support is greatly appreciated.

I like to remind everyone that baby animals will be coming into care around the world in the northern hemisphere and if you have anything that can help, please donate.

I want to start with a very special nest – this nest could teach the world some good lessons! Then we will check on what is going on with Heidi and those osprey nests in the US.

Heidi’s US Osprey nest note:

Wolf Bay osprey platform: The third baby for Josie and Bert hatched on 4/25. The three cuties are only three days apart in age.

Geemeff reminds us of a special day – Mark Your Calendars!

“Sunday 4 May marks International Dawn Chorus Day 2025. Here’s the top tips from the RSPB for enjoying it.’

https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/news/the-dawn-chorus-all-you-need-to-know-about-natures-big-show

Names were given and a memorial planned for the three eaglets of Scout and Bella that died when their nest was tossed out of the tree by high winds this week.

Glaslyn News: “It has been a dramatic season so far with KC6/Teifi and Aran fighting for their place on the Glaslyn nest. On Tuesday it became clear that Aran had started his campaign in earnest to recover his nest. He began aggressively divebombing KC6/Teifi on the nest and chased him through the valley, leading to spectacular views for visitors and volunteers who watched them in the air from the Visitor Centre.

On Wednesday morning he brought a large Mullet to Elen before chasing Teifi out of his territory once again. He has been present on the nest today, and this evening returned with another fish for Elen. We have not seen Teifi on the nest camera since Wednesday morning.

Is this the beginning of a fresh start for Aran and Elen?”

Here is that nest battle on video: https://youtu.be/MIcDcKGlwWo?

Big Bear Valley: I don’t know about you but I really don’t want Sunny and Gizmo to fledge for a long, long time! https://youtu.be/EHzKcNE3WG4?

Trempealeau Bald Eagles: T3 is 15 days old today. Mum is working hard to provide for herself and her only surviving eaglet. She came in with the big fish and fed T3 twice, brooding her eaglet inbetween so it could not get a chill. What a great Mum. Dad showed up today to feed a few bites of fish to little T3 and then flew off taking the fish to his other nest and chicks. (Don’t get me started!)

Peace caught it on video: https://youtu.be/yaubm2K6sAw? I really want this little one to survive. It is getting its thermal down, but the rain can cause Mum to not be able to fish, so Dad taking their food is not good.

Cromer Peregrine Falcons: Poppy and Henry have two chicks at the time I am writing. https://youtu.be/Q8E4xLgv55s?

Cal Falcons: Please read the post by Cal Falcons carefully. I hope you are as angry as I am at the changes that could make our beautiful raptors – endangered and extinct. What are you going to do to stop this

Cal Falcons

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Due to the use of DDT and other pesticides, there were fewer than 100 Peregrine Falcons in the lower 48 United States in the 1970s. Bald Eagles had dropped to fewer than 1000 individuals across the same area. Thanks to the effects of science-based environmental regulations such as the Endangered Species Act (ESA), Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), and Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), there are currently ~5,000 Peregrine Falcons and ~300,000 Bald Eagles in the lower 48!

The recovery of these two species is due almost entirely to legislation that is scheduled to be officially “sunset” by Executive Order dated 9 April 2025 (“Zero-based Regulatory Budgeting to Unleash American Energy). The damage that this could cause is immeasurable and could take decades of concerted effort to recover from. In some cases, the damage could be irreversible, as many endangered species could very quickly go extinct without protections.

Environmental regulations protect not only plant and animal species but every person on the planet through clean air and water, and it is estimated that the environment provides approximately 150 trillion dollars of economic benefit globally every year for free (Jiang et al. 2021). Recovery of the Peregrine Falcon and Bald Eagle are just two of many stories that demonstrate the power of regulation in conserving the natural world that we all live in, depend on, and enjoy.”

These orders impact birds in the United States and those that migrate to my country for their spring and summer breeding. They also impact the nests that we watch. We need help for our wildlife and the natural areas of our world, not hindrances and indifference.

Defenders of Wildlife, a US-based organization states, ““Rolling back these kinds of protections for migratory birds such as snowy owls, red-winged blackbirds, and white pelicans will undoubtedly result in the deaths of tens of thousands of birds,” said Daniel Moss, senior government relations representative at Defenders of Wildlife. “This action is particularly egregious as we approach the 15th anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon explosion which resulted in catastrophic mortality rates for sea birds. Only thanks to the MBTA, BP was forced to pay $100 million in fines. Weakening this law by giving businesses a free pass to do harm is the exact opposite of what our government should be doing.”

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

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Friday 25th April 2025

This day in 2021 saw the first appearance of Affric 152 on Nest One, and this day in 2023 saw the first appearance of Garry LV0 on Nest One, although he’d first appeared in 2022, intruding on Nest Two. This year things are looking different on Nest One – Affric has been chased off back to her own nest at Bunarkaig with her mate Prince, and Garry has definitely claimed the nest as his own and is fighting off all comers, while his relationship with new female Blue 536 goes from strength to strength. With mating attempts not being rejected and plenty of fish being offered, we can be cautiously optimistic that we finally have a bonded pair on Nest One, with the slim possibility of chicks this year, although it’s more likely to be next year assuming the pair return together. Garry brought three fish to the nest including the season’s first flatfish, and his tally rises to eighteen. Things are very settled over on Nest Two, with Louis taking turns to incubate the three eggs while Dorcha goes off to eat the fish he brings her. His two deliveries today take his tally to fifty one. The weather was settled today with the forecasted drizzle staying away, but rain is due tonight and all day tomorrow.

Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 21.51.59 (04.29.33); Nest Two 21.45.59 (04.48.50)

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/R8f0rZc_Ltc N2 Breakfast for Dorcha as the first fish arrives 06.56.43

https://youtu.be/nupk9f0MtmE N1 Breakfast for Blue 536 – Garry LV0 brings a whole trout 08.46.59

https://youtu.be/jGh2w8AI_WA N1 Garry LV0’s second fish is the season’s first flatfish 13.18.34

https://youtu.be/_pNEypf6mYU N1 A Hoodie arrives and flies off the perch to chase an Osprey 17.08.47 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/XHIsDRQ7YH4 N2 Louis delivers fish number two, a headless trout 17.21.46

https://youtu.be/8iv8nJJBeF8 N1 Blue 536 eventually comes for Garry LV0’s third fish 17.59.05

Bonus watch – how do Woodland Trust create a new woodland?

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/1_Sm9SEu0PI N1 Ringed female stranger visits 2021 (slo-mo, zoom)

https://youtu.be/F65FJe4xMHc N1 Louis visits the nest shortly after the ringed female 2021

https://youtu.be/0swlIF7VWuM N1 Woodpecker and Blue Tit visit 2021

https://youtu.be/6frCvYMt4a0 N2 Louis is too busy mating to notice Dorcha’s new egg 2022

https://youtu.be/OVCVE1wwydU N2 Louis sees his egg and takes over incubation for the first time 2022

https://youtu.be/15WD6z9hROg N1 It’s last year’s intruder from N2: LV0 visits N1 for the first time 2023 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/0-quAK2Ju1Y N1 He’s back! Garry LV0 arrives 2024

https://youtu.be/EQN51E_PIO4 N2 Unringed intruder Osprey seen off by Louis 2024 (real-time with slo-mo repeat)

https://youtu.be/1TGdaSB0t04 N2 Female Chaffinch looks tiny perching next to Dorcha 2024 (zoom)

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

If you missed the April Condor chat by the Ventana Wildlife Society, here it is: https://youtu.be/sCGnKrFcHcM? I highly recommend that you watch, and if you loved Iniko, there is a video of her journey over the five years, especially the time of the Dolan Fire of 2020 that killed her Dad, Kingpin.

Iniko (Born during Troubled Times) is getting some orange/red on her head! Remember, she rose from the ashes as they mention in the video blog.

The Ventana Wildlife Society continues to work hard to protect these amazing birds from HPAI.

All I can say is I am glad the individual was caught. Unbelievable.

Vengeful shooter laid poisoned baits in attempt to frame a Scottish estate for raptor persecution –Download

Fraser Point: Both eaglets have names – Blue and Kaimani. Many of you have noticed the number of eels showing up at nests. Dr Sharpe was on the chat today and said this: “I wonder if wolf eels are especially susceptible to domoic acid poisoning. They must be turning up dead a lot along the western coast of Santa Cruz.” He went on to say, “We had two chicks die at the Pelican Harbor nest at about 1 week old one year. The red tide often seems to peak around the time the eagle chicks hatch.” “That’s probably what is killing the pelicans that are showing up at some nests. I saw a pelican spiral into the ocean and die a few weeks ago.” [Dr Sharpe is referring to Red Tide]. Dr Sharpe was asked about the Fraser Point eagles being older and would it impact them. He remarked, “Only if they eat a lot of fish and the red tide is still around. I’m in Colorado, so I don’t know the current conditions there.”

Decorah Goose Cam: Waiting for hatch!

Golden Eagle Cam in Romania: The new mother at this nest, Pausa, has never had eaglets before or so it appears. She has absolutely no idea what to do and when the eaglet hatched on day 43 she kept picking it up and moving it out of the egg bowl causing it to get cold. She stepped on it. Picked it up and moved it again. Eventually the poor little thing died. The third egg could hatch in 3-4 days time but I doubt if the eaglet will are any better than this one. Being parents is not always instinctual.

Cromer Falcons: Dad, Henry, watches Mum, Poppy, feed the chicks! They are such little darlings and such an attentive Dad!

https://youtu.be/aaC4hjDnOkg?

It is free and it is fun. Guess the day of the first hatch at Rutland Water’s nest of Blue 33 and Maya at Manton Bay! Put your choice in the chat and Bart M will tabulate everything.

The Bald Eagle, Majestic, arrived at Wildlife Haven in 2014. She was dehydrated and emaciated and had an old wing injury that had did not heal properly. She is a great ambassador and loves her new cage. She did some loud chortles as we walked up to say hello.

So cute. Ducklingham Palace.

Fort St Vrain: Wet days and a damp nest. The eaglets have their thermal down and are looking good despite the weather. Keep sending this family good vibes.

Newfoundland Ospreys have returned. We wait for the Snow Lane camera to come live to see Beaumont and Hope.

Why on earth are koalas being culled? (I asked the same question when authorities in New Zealand were going to cull Canada Geese).

Why were hundreds of koalas shot in an aerial cull in Victoria?https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/apr/25/why-were-hundreds-of-koalas-shot-in-an-aerial-cull-in-victoria?CMP=share_btn_url

Thank you for being with us today. Please take care. We will 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: ‘Geemeff, Heidi, PB’, Wolf Bay, RSPB, Deb Stecyk/NCTC Eagles, Bywyd Gwyllt Glaslyn, FOBBV, Trempealeau Eagle nest, Cal Falcons, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust, Ventana Wildlife Society, Raptor Persecution UK, IWS/Explore, Wild Bucovina Association, Cromer Falcons, Defenders of Wildlife, Wildlife Haven, LRWT and Bart M, Xcel Energy, The Guardian, Ian Winter and Snow Lane Osprey Nest with Beaumont and Hope

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:

Peregrine falcons reach sexual maturity at 2-3 years of age, says the Alberta Conservation Association.
They establish territories and breed, laying eggs and raising their own young.

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 Ospreys Download

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

Wednesday in Bird World

23 April 2025

Good Morning Everyone,

Yesterday was Earth Day. While we should, each day, try to protect our planet, did you do anything special? In Winnipeg, we will be having the opening of the new Buffalo Crossing at Fort Whyte on Sunday the 27th. It will mark the end of a week of events celebrating Earth Day. https://youtu.be/DQPIdqPi3TI?

Do you know the history of Earth Day? It is always on the 22nd of April.

Here’s are some facts:

1969:John McConnell proposed a day to honor the Earth and peace, later sanctioned by the United Nations.
1970:Senator Nelson organized the first Earth Day, focusing on the United States.
April 22, 1970:The first Earth Day took place, with an estimated 20 million Americans participating.
Late 1970:The Environmental Protection Agency was created, and other environmental laws like the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act were passed.
1990:Earth Day went global, with over 140 countries participating, significantly expanding its reach and influence.
Present:Earth Day continues to be an international event, advocating for a cleaner, more sustainable world.

Morning Update: Kielder Forest: At 11.40 today KF13 laid egg 3 in nest 1A.

It is a heavy overcast day on the Canadian prairies. The birds flit in and out of the garden while a gentle rain descends. It doesn’t feel like spring. Much more like the end of autumn, but we need some good rain, so let it pour! That will help everything turn green. Still, the heaviest snows seen all year are falling in parts of northern Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

There really is not a lot going on with the ospreys right now. Many are incubating while others are fighting off intruders and trying to hold on to their nests. Some have simply not returned.

Tweed Valley Osprey Project: Well, this is marvellous. I hoped we would have a trio – two females and a male. Wouldn’t this be nice for Iris?

It is that age-old question—do we cooperate and thrive or compete and fail? Unfortunately, failure seems to be the order of the day for 2025 breeding osprey nests that have intruders.

Iris, Hellgate Canyon: Some are starting to look at that osprey that delivered the fish as if it could have been Finnegan. There was a more than 90% chance that it was due to the plumage and the fish gift. Thankfully, there continues to be no egg in the nest. The most we can hope for is that Louis gets busy helping with Star and their chicks, that Finnegan returns if Louis disappears to the baseball park, or that Iris does not lay a single egg this year. It is hard on her body, and for what? For Crow food?

Poor Iris was fish calling and calling. When you read that raptors ‘bond’ for life, after this year, I hope you don’t believe it! Male arrives with a stick. It looks like Louis to me. Brings a stick, not a fish and then wants to mate.

Here is the video of the encounter: https://youtu.be/pqB1cowWUO4?

Iris did quiet little cheeps looking over to the owl pole and flew off the nest late Tuesday afternoon.

Rumour has it that a male was sky dancing. I would love it to be Finn or another young one willing to tackle Louis.

Glaslyn: Aran continues to try for his nest, but Teifi is there or about, and, quite honestly, I think this much-loved older male osprey, mate of Mrs G and then Elen, is losing his hold.

Elen in the rain.

Duke Farms: I honestly did not believe all three would survive to fledge, but here they are. Just look at those beautiful juveniles.

Redding Eagles: On Tuesday, Liberty and Guardian were working on their new nest, bringing in soft grasses.

Eagle Country: Blaze and his new mate, Skye, did not have any eaglets this year, but the couple continue to come to the nest with prey items.

Little Miami Conservancy: LM 8 and LM 9 are getting their thick thermal down, and those pin feathers appear. Sadly, there are problems with not having enough food. LM 8 from a small fish, and LM 9 got some scraps.

USS Steel: USS8 has had nothing but big crops. There is something extraordinary about being an only eaglet.

Port Tobacco: Riley and Teo appear to be doing well.

Golden Eagle Cam, Romania: Pip Watch. If you are queasy and the second egg hatches, please be advised that golden eagles practice ‘Cainism’. The older will kill the younger unless there is an extraordinary amount of food, and even then, the life of the second is not guaranteed.

Denton Farms: ‘PB’ writes: “Denton Farms little one is too cute…look at that crop!”

Kielder Forest: Musical Nests!

First 2025 view of a regular intruder _ Kielder Ospreys Download

San Jose City Hall: 4th chick hatches two days after the oldest ones. https://youtu.be/sm1TK10KdyQ?

Raptor Resource Project reports on our single Mum and the only surviving eaglet and ‘PB’ adds: “Trempealeau mom just had her huge fish stolen from Mr T…this mom is trying so hard. Good thing the baby ate well. Now she needs to fish tomorrow before the rain starts.”

‘PB’ reports that Mum was up early for food for the two of them. The little T3 has a nice crop. They also report that huge storms with tornades are moving into the central area of the US. Stay safe everyone.

Fort St Vrain: The two surviving eaglets are getting their thick thermal down. They remain way too curious about the outside world, and those crib rails could use some reinforcement: they appear to be doing well.

Saaksilivie #1, Finland: It is located on the edge of a swamp in Satakunta, in the top of a pine tree about eight meters high. It is the home of Eura and Eve who fledged two chicks in 2024, Lumme and Utu.

Saaksilvie Satakunna, #2, Finland: No information on any occupancy or hatches since 2019. It is currently empty.

Saaksilivie Satakunnan, #3, Finland (Wind and Magic): This is the nest of Tuulos and Taika. They had three eggs in 2024. One did not hatch, one chick died right after hatching, and another was taken by an Eagle Owl.

Information on Nest #3: Nest #3 is located in the Satakunta region in Western Finland. Ospreys have nested there in 1997 and from 2002 to 2009. The man-made nest was rebuilt in 2016 but it wasn’t until 2019 when the current male, Ahti, discovered the nest and was soon joined by a female who was called Helmi. The young pair spent the summer in the vicinity of the nest but Helmi didn’t lay any eggs. The following year the pair returned and in the spring of 2020 Helmi laid 3 eggs. The first successful nesting at the site in 11 years resulted in two fledglings. In the spring of 2021 Ahti returned but Helmi didn’t. By the time Ahti returned the nest had been taken over by a new pair, but Ahti reclaimed his nest site and the female eventually stayed with him. The new female, who was named Nuppu, had a ring on her right leg. She was ringed as a nestling in 2018. In 2022, Tuulos and Tiuku were a new pair. They were there in 2024.

Saaksilivie #4, Finland: This is the nest of Nemo and Nuppu. In 2024, they had three eggs hatch. Chicks were URA, USU, and UPU. Upu was taken from the nest by a White-tail Eagle. Ura escaped from the nest when the White-tail eagle tried to take it. Usu fell from the nest and was rescued. USU was taken to the Pyhtää Bird Sanctuary for care but died later.

Saaksilivie #5 LS nest in Southwest Finland: Home of Sara and Roni who laid two eggs in 2024. Both were taken from the nest by Ravens when the nest was empty. They had two chicks fledge in 2023.

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

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Tuesday 22nd April 2025
Plenty of excitement today after a quiet day yesterday! Dorcha laid her third and final egg this morning, and a few hours later was seeing off an intruder Osprey who buzzed her on the nest. Unfortunately the intruder didn’t allow us a proper look but s/he was wearing a Blue Darvic ring on the left leg, therefore a Scottish Osprey. Blue 536 and Garry LV0 are candidates, or it might have been an unknown newcomer to the area. It probably wasn’t

Affric 152, as Chaddie reports the Bunarkaig nest has a sitting Osprey on incubation duty, and we know that is Affric’s nest after LizB confirmed it via her long lens camera last year. Louis brought two fish to the nest, taking his tally to forty five. Over on Nest One, Garry LV0 brought Blue 536 an early afternoon fish but she wasn’t around when he brought a second fish at supper time. Perhaps he’s supplying her with fish off-nest, as their relationship seems to be building nicely. His fish tally rises to twelve. After a soggy night, today was dry and will remain so overnight and tomorrow morning, but rain is forecast for the afternoon.
Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 21.58.56 (05.03.55); Nest Two 22.17.01 (05.07.23)

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/VVo-U1M7_To N2 Another early breakfast for Dorcha 05.55.09

https://youtu.be/F-c8ExCby2Y N2 Egg number three! Congratulations Dorcha! 10.30.10https://youtu.be/zG281Jn64sg N2 Louis gets a good look and takes over egg duty12.28.18https://youtu.be/ikIcnpBI7Kg N2 Intruder Osprey buzzes Dorcha 14:16 05https://youtu.be/2uVh32TZTaE N1 Blue 536 grabs the fish and leaves Garry LV0 to tidy up 14.25.59https://youtu.be/ir0pxb4jEZ8 N2 Louis hands over a second fish and settles down to egg duty 15.09.20https://youtu.be/pdZDKN8z3vU N1 Garry LV0 brings a second fish but no one’s there 20.43.20Bonus words of wisdom from George WTS about how to handle differing reactions around the possible outcomes for the three eggs:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam/?ht-comment-id=24624233

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:
https://youtu.be/uPIkehlZIXw N1 Aila gives chase 2020 (slo-mo)
https://youtu.be/-YjzEre5Ex8 N2 Midnight owl strike 2022 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/olQdCvN9Vj4 N2 Another owl strike an hour after the first 2022 (slo-mo)https://youtu.be/odF55TOSvUY N2 Louis chases an intruder osprey off the nest 2022
https://youtu.be/iOH80Okm7ZY N2 Yet another intruder Osprey on the nest 2022
https://youtu.be/uOeWEzk6yos N2 Cheeky Hoodie intrudes on Louis 2023
https://youtu.be/U17pKvmqkcw N2 Golden Eagle touches down on Nest Two 2023 (slo-mo)https://youtu.be/nQJirIJiue4 N1 Garry stops coy-mantling and unsuccessfully attempts mating with Affric 2024
https://youtu.be/bVMPL7NSoN4 N1 Ill-tempered mating encounter between Affric & Prince 2024
https://youtu.be/GomhIEZ_2mE N1 Garry brings another fish and leaves with a squirt 2024
https://youtu.be/dXwt2HSZ1fk N2 A fish supper arrives during a colourful sunset 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

Farmer Derek’s Owl Cam: Bonnie and Clyde’s Starr is growing and getting those gorgeous GHO feathers. Soon she will be hunting with her parents, practising on the ground. The adults will provide her with lots of food so she can thrive and teaching movements. Her initial hunting will be on the ground – after she fledges.

MN-DNR: Not an eagle! Look carefully and you will see the nesting duck.

Geemeff has found a new nest cam for a Great Gray Owl! “A new nest cam from explore.org: A Great Grey Owl

https://explore.org/livecams/owl-research-institute/great-gray-owl-nest

Geemeff has sent us some good information from Cornell’s Nestwatch about building bird houses and what to provide for birds when they are nesting. Enjoy!

All About Birdhouses – NestWatch Download

Good night everyone! I moved the smaller light coloured cat tree into the conservatory. Hugo Yugo is the Queen of her castle!

Baby Hope likes the edge of the sofa. She has already created a bit of a dent!

Thank you so much for being with me. Please take care. See you soon.

Thank you to the following for their notes, posts, comments, videos, articles, and streaming cams: ‘Geemeff, PB’, Tweed Valley Osprey Project, Montana Osprey Project/Cornell Bird Lab, Bywyd Gwylld Glaslyn, Duke Farms, FORE, Eagle Country, Little Miami Conservancy, Pix Cams, Port Tobacco, Wild Bucovina Association, Denton Farms, SK Hideaways, Saaksilvie #1, Explore.org, Farmer Derek’s Owl Cam, Cornell Nestwatch, Xcel Energy, Saaksilivie Nesting Information, MN-DNR, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust

Tragedy at NCTC nest…late Saturday in Bird World

20 April 2025

Good Morning Everyone,

I am sending this out early instead of Sunday morning. A huge storm has hit the NCTC nest of Bella and Scout and the nest has collapsed. I believe all three of those gorgeous healthy eaglets who were sleeping at the time will have passed. There were strong winds. Tragic. More than sad for this amazing and beautiful family. I am at a complete loss for words. https://youtu.be/7PTxwKogiVg?

I do not know the status of Bella. Help was to go out and check. Oh, I am hoping for a miracle for all our of them but preparing for the worst. Send your positive thoughts.

Saturday turned out to be a really beautiful day on the Canadian prairies with the temperature climbing to 10 C and the grey clouds have disappeared! Today, we are going to check out the American White Pelicans that have now arrived in Manitoba! Pictures tomorrow.

Iris: It feels like Louis is stalking her. Has Finnegan returned and been chased away? is he on his way? We wait.

Brock made his presence known this morning, choosing to sit on the outdoor dining table, staring into the house through the garden doors! When he finished his big bowl of tasty salmon, he walked right over to the garden door and stared inside at ‘The Girls’ who were busy watching him.

Squishy came later. The Girls tolerate Brock but do not like the other cats that come to the feeder. The plan is to move it away from the doors so they don’t see who else comes calling.

Loch Arkaig: Geemeff writes: “Egg number two! 12.55 Dorcha is on the nest and it looks like she’s getting ready to lay her second egg 12.56.16 She gives a shake of her tail 12.56.18 She stands and the second egg is seen. She fusses them for a little while, turning and positioning them to her satisfaction before settling down and aligning her brood patch over the two eggs. (More later in the post)

Glaslyn: Elen laid her third egg!

RSPB Loch Garten: The nest continues to be unsettled and more so with the arrival of KL5.

Big Bear Valley: The kids are learning to be self-sufficient! https://youtu.be/Qk4HCIlPZek?

San Jose Falcons: Monty and Hartley had their first hatch on Saturday! Oh, they have two! SK Hideaways has the video: https://youtu.be/_9jZtIHqat4?

Goitzsche-Wildnis: ‘JC’ comments on her video: “Zeus is doing his homework by brooding in the nest while Fjona has taken a break. He seems to be comfortable with the incubation tasks. But his companion returns and, with very little delicacy and screaming, pushes Zeus out of the nest. The girl has character… and a bit of bad drool, even.” https://youtu.be/N4cIKfZ0DpA?

Loch of the Lowes: Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve says: “Grab a cuppa and settle down for a full review of the comings and goings so far! It’s been a complex start to the season with no fewer than four combinations of osprey pairings appearing on the nest ; *NC0 (resident breeding female 2020-2024, not seen since 2nd April) & a New Male *The New Male and an Unringed Female (with the ‘Cluedo’ marking on the back of her head) *LM24 (aka The Dark Intruder, who held territory in second half of 2024 with NC0) & the same Unringed Female, and finally… *LM24 & the Dark Female (with the ‘Bandit’ eye mask who intruded in 2024, and possibly 2023)! Confused !? It’s taken a lot of careful reviewing and analysing to pick apart the rapidly changing dynamic, but it looks like LM24 and the Dark Female have finally become ‘top ospreys’ at the Lowes nest, appearing to be settled as a pair and dominant for a week! Talons crossed for eggs in the next 7-10 days! [Note: The osprey which attacked and knocked the Dark Female off the nest was thought to originally be the Unringed Female (with the ‘Cluedo piece’ marking on the back of her head) – however, thanks to some excellent photos by Scott Duncan from the hide, we were able to spy a silver BTO ring on the right leg of the osprey!!

Yes, we got excited too thinking it might be the return of NC0, but this osprey had no white break in her brown mask behind her eye, and the underwing markings did not match those of NC0. We have had at least 3 different BTO-only ringed osprey intruding in the last few years, so it could easily be the return of these individuals, or new ones who have lost their Darvic colour rings, which can be prone to cracking and falling off due to the impact of repeatedly hitting the water. If we get any sightings of NC0 we will let folks know.]”

The season so far in video! https://youtu.be/6Pd-LufRSgM?

Kielder Forest’s latest news: Egg 3 for Nest 7 arrived at 14.13 yesterday. KX7 was making the usual squeaks and grunts pre-laying. She had a final push at 14.13 and a few seconds later stood. Nest 11, the first time two ospreys have been seen at this nest. Hoping they stay.

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

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Saturday 19th April 2025

Today delivered the anticipated excitement: with a quick shake of her tail feathers, Dorcha produced the second egg at 12.55.16, and the new female Blue 536 turned up again today, saw Affric 152 off Nest One, and got a fish from Garry LV0, to much jubilation from their fans. Very early days, but at the risk of jinxing things, Blue 536 does seem to be showing an interest in the nest and in Garry for more than just a few free fish on her journey elsewhere. Along with the fish came a few mating attempts, none have been successful, but Blue 536 isn’t rebuffing him, and looks at home on Nest One. Cautiously optimistic! Garry’s single fish takes his tally to six, and Louis also brought one fish, taking his tally to forty. In other news, Louis chased a Hoodie away from Nest Two, Garry LV0 dealt with a pronged stick, and Dorcha can have a little rest, if the owls continue to stay away, before her next and probably final egg is due on Tuesday. The weather forecast is for light cloud and light winds overnight and into tomorrow, and a few sunny spells.

Night cam switches on (day cam): Nest One 21.34.32 (05.25.05); Nest Two 21.31.17 (05.35.12)

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/psJLabACO1U N2 Early breakfast for Dorcha 05.44.34

https://youtu.be/r3HwBnSxQFg N2 Hoodie chased away by Louis 06.20.59

https://youtu.be/fk9QLXJ5oA0 N1 Blue 536 arrives, waits an hour but Garry doesn’t appear 06.37.25

https://youtu.be/JZ4karhsVMo N1 Affric touches down and is chased away 11.42.53 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/gnysQoRM6G8 N2 Egg number two! 12.56.16 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/EzmggXArZEQ N1 Blue 536 gets a fish from Garry LV0 15.03.31

https://youtu.be/n4Y8mwMyZuI N1 Garry deals competently with a large forked stick 17.23.30

Bonus news item: in the wake of the illegal felling of the 500 year old Whitewebbs Oak, Woodland Trust explain the value of our ancient trees:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/czjnv448110o

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/eLQgDi2VKIA N1 A stranger follows Louis to the nest 2021 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/xm-qPYjLLnE N1&2 Typhoon jets do a flypast of both nests 2022

https://youtu.be/Pt6-35zGrZw N1 Prince takes a very long mating run-up 2022

https://youtu.be/GLChgTeSpiA N2 Louis chases Prince away from Nest Two 2022

https://youtu.be/9O8JWeQEXeE N2 Dorcha uses her crow voice on a Hoodie 2023

https://youtu.be/kZJTfoKO6GY N2 Dorcha is very vocal when supper arrives 2023

https://youtu.be/EwONgG-jTWI N1 No takers for Garry LV0’s travelling fish 2024

https://youtu.be/BCOPgYVTB5s N2 Drama as Dorcha fights with an eagle 2024 (slo-mo repeat with zoom)

https://youtu.be/nHPwQ5xDs5U N2 Fish number one, large headless trout, Dorcha’s injury visible as she takes it 2024 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/G6MmnbWYf90 N2 Affric waits on Nest One but Garry is a no-show 2024

https://youtu.be/dVOw0D9-zaU N2 Louis arrives chased by a Hoodie as Dorcha rests quietly 2024 (zoom

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

Heidi sent me this link. If you like Leonard Cohen and Canada Geese, this is for you!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48AJBXs5dNc

Heidi sends us some osprey news, too!

Seaside osprey nest: Congratulations to Naha and Bruce on their first egg, laid 4/18 at 17:01. Naha has laid her first egg on the same date for three straight years.

Lake Murray ospreys: Lucy and Kenny had three eggs (laid 3/14, 3/17, 3/20). Around the 26^th of March, they started to have intruder issues. On 3/28 there was a serious altercation between Kenny and a male intruder. It is thought that was the last time Kenny was seen. The new male took over, and has since been named ‘Newman’. But, for awhile Newman was not bringing fish to Lucy, so Lucy was having to catch her own fish. The eggs were unattended for long periods of time. One egg broke on 3/29. Newman was also seen trying to kick the eggs out of the nest. One egg was thrown from the bowl, and Lucy was able to roll it back. Well, the cam owner and chatters say that apparently Newman has matured over the past couple of weeks, and he has been bringing large fish to Lucy. And not only that, he has been incubating the eggs at times. We have all seen peregrine falcon males do this. Some peregrine males have been known to fully assume ‘Dad’ responsibilities, and will assist the female with her clutch and chicks, if the father is missing. At the Exshaw osprey nest, Mr. O helped Louise in 2023 with her two chicks after Jasper disappeared, but Little had already died. Has anyone ever known of another case where a male osprey has done the same thing? If egg #1 at Lake Murray is still remaining, it will be 37 days old on 4/20.

Crooked Lake osprey nest: Congrats to Mom and Noble on their second egg, laid on 4/19 at 10:41.

Ospreys continue to arrive in Finland. https://www.youtube.com/live/IVx9nEX0afs?

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

Thank you to the following for their notes, posts, comments, videos, and streaming cams that helped me to write my post today: ‘Geemeff, Heidi’, Bywyd Gwylld Glaslyn, RSPB Loch Garten, Jeff Kear and UK Osprey Information, LOTL, Geemeff and The Woodland Trust, FOBBV, SK Hideaways, San Jose City Hall, Goitzsche-Wildness and Joan Castmyer, Kielder Forest, Seaside Ospreys, Lake Murray Ospreys, Crooked Lake Osprey Cam, Kuopio Finland Osprey Cam/Kaala Saaski

Category Archives: UK ospreys

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Tragedy at NCTC nest…late Saturday in Bird World

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