Category Archives: nature

Wisdom wins the dance contest…Tuesday in Bird World

5 December 2023

Good Morning Everyone,

We must start with Wisdom, the oldest banded Laysan Albatross in the world. She is dancing again! On the Midway Atoll. Can you imagine? 72 years old and dancing. Tears rolled down my cheeks when I saw the message from Holly Parsons. Wisdom is incredible. Send positive wishes that this very special albatross will breed again this year!

Wisdom lost her long-time mate three fall breeding seasons ago. Hold on to your seats this year! It looks like she might have attracted a young male partner.

Wisdom is on the left with the red band, Z333.

And then for news in Cat World. The hunt for the male kitten has come up trumps. Let me introduce the youngest and last kitten I will ever adopt. Hugo. After Grayish turned out to be a female, I was about to give up and then the head coordinator asked me what I wanted in a kitten. A short time later she phoned and said she had the perfect match. Did I mind a Ginger?

Stories about Hugo and the girls will come on Wednesday morning!

When it comes to Ospreys, no one has all the answers. I am grateful to Bart, who has worked hard for Port Lincoln to get the observation board information up to date, work on fish delivery stats, and monitor the chat. Bart has now included those days with zero fish so that his findings will be accurate. It was a simple oversight, but having those figures in there and those days will change the final statistics while providing an accurate view of what happened. Bart’s efforts and those of the fairies have offered everyone an excellent educational and sharing experience.

I gave Port Lincoln a poke yesterday. They are in a tough situation because what they are doing is unique – supplying supplementary fish to a nest where siblicide is a known reality. Dad has never been a stellar performer. As Bart noted today, he is at best good for four fish, no more. (Most of the nests I have monitored average seven deliveries a day for 2 or 3 osplets.) The reasons for the low number of deliveries can only be speculated. This is not just my thinking. We have seen two instances on camera of what appears to be seizures. But how those impact his brain and his daily living is unknown. Then there is his age. Again, there is only speculation as to whether the sheer physicality of osprey fishing is hampered by age, but it leaves us to wonder. Does he lack motivation because of the fish fairies? Anything is a possibility.
At this juncture, using one nest to test whether ospreys will stop fishing if humans provide fish is insufficient for scientific proof. And with this nest having a high siblicide rate and Dad being a poor performer regardless, that makes it even more problematic. Testing this theory on a known superstar like Blue 33 at Rutland would be better. Yes, he has fish right at the nest site. Absolutely. Would he stop fishing if fish were provided? If he did, that would be very telling. Would he start fishing to keep his chicks alive once the fish fairies stopped? Well, that is the question. At Port Lincoln, they struggle with what to do as the fledge nears. They are attempting to motivate the adults to get out there and bring in the fish because they are concerned that the osplets will bolt off the nest if delivery is so close to ‘fledge’. Another intriguing question is: Are the osplets (and ducts) so used to having humans deliver fish that they would not bolt?

I am told that Port Lincoln is disinfecting the old barge to ready it to receive fish (Dad used to take the fish there) in case they need to provide fish after banding.

The issue is this. ‘H’ and I have monitored over 300 eggs in 2023 from being laid to fledge or death or not hatching. We know that relatively good condition osplets who had their crop full can live between 58-79 hours without fish. 79 is pushing it. ‘H’ is checking her data because, in the June deaths of Chesapeake Bay, some of those chicks were younger and did not live that many hours. I will include this information once we glean it from the data forms of the International Osprey Data Project.

So let us send Port Lincoln some real positive energy as they work towards getting these two fledged. That is the goal of the project – two fledglings. After fledge, the fairies should be able to toss all the fish they want on that nest, and the kids will need it. Do you remember Ervie and Falky? or the fights between Ervie and Bazza for fish after fledging? This is one of those dust-ups between Ervie and Bazza. It happened almost two years ago…aren’t we just so proud of our Ervie?

‘H’ reports that Dad brought in a half fish at 16:58. #2 grabbed it to self-feed but Mum took over and both ate with crops. Hoping Mum got some, too.

‘H’ and I will be publishing all of the data with complete explanations but these are the findings in the International Osprey Data Project so far. It will not be complete until I add the final details of Port Lincoln this year and the information from Iowa for their 2023 nests in January.

This is the current information for all the nests and the 335 eggs we monitored. Thank you, Claudio, for making our life easy with those forms!

My interest is in siblicide, specifically, the 3rd and 4th hatches that survive siblicide attempts. This has meant monitoring hours between an osplet getting any fish and counting bites of food when they do in comparison to the rest of the clutch. It is agonising research, but the triumphs are enormous. Think of the fourth hatch at Patchogue this year…imagine for a second that tenacious tiny little osplet whose drive to live was tremendous. Some called her Tiny Dancer. She was amazing.

The following information includes nests in North America, the UK, Europe, and Australia. This is the raw data and it is, as far as I know, one of the largest osprey behaviour studies that is ongoing.

We got some great close ups of Giliath and #2 as a few raindrops fell.

Cute little Dad. His crop is certainly not bulging.

Whole family lining up for the fish fairy! Or that is what it looks like. But…

Today is the odd day so no deliveries from the fairies. Will either adult deliver a fish? We wait to find out.

‘A’ sent us reports about the Sea Eaglets. Isn’t it wonderful to know that one is alive and well. Tears of joy:

“December 3: There was a storm last night with hail and heavy rain so the river is very muddy. Both parents were on River Roost around 8am and the juvenile was spotted on a low branch in the sun – all drying out. Later when the young one was seen near the adults, she was whining for food. At 10:30 when adults are on River Roost and she is on the island, she is quiet. In the afternoon around 4:30pm, both parents were on River Roost, with the juvenile out of sight again. A parent flew into the mangroves; the young one was probably there hidden away. Just after 5pm, she was seen low on a branch at River Roost again.

…Audio file December 4: down by the river 07:24 both parents on river roost and duetting. 08:04,  young one calling. Earlier, peewee swooping adults. 08:07 parents calling again, juvenile too. 08:13, the tide has turned. 08:35, a good shake by the juvenile, downy fluff flying, then moved to a different branch. Then a few minutes later, the juvenile flew closer to the adults. When parents duetted, she was listening and looking up. Then again , and juvenile on and off. The parents moved a little closer, but at 9:30 all were still there. Just after 10am an adult left, swooped over the river and caught a fish. Juvie flew down to the ground, and the fish was delivered. She ate on the ground out of sight. Around 11:15, the adult took off, circling overhead. No action then until 12:10, when  the juvie was flushed out by 4 ibis flying in to the mangroves. Then shortly after, it changed branches again, flying a short distance. At 12:30, neither adult was there. No more observations later.”

‘A’ sent the latest news from the Parramatta River in Sydney and the WBSE:

There have been no sightings of any juvenile activity at Orange since the 2nd of December Australian time. ‘H’ tells me that Cilla has checked the trees and there is no sign. This is so very sad. The huge effort put into their eggs, their survival in the scrape, ….heart breaking for Xavier and Diamond.

‘A’ provides the latest news though…perhaps there is a juvenile? There are reports that a juvenile might have been heard. There was no sighting. It was very hot in the area and the birds were staying in the shade of the trees to stay cool.

Gabby and V3 are taking a page out of Jackie and Shadow’s play book – gosh, they messed around with those sticks for such a time!

Everyone is cheering for this couple!

Our beautiful Jackie and Shadow.

Ron and Rose are busy, too.

We are so close at Superbeaks.

Liz Schwartz has posted romance over at the Centreport Eagle nest.

Released condors having a feast.

Overfishing. The decline of worldwide fish stocks. It is time to think about this as we enter the breeding season for many of our feathered friends who depend on the oceans for their food and, thus, their lives. It is estimated that the number of fish in the oceans has declined by 90% since 1900. There are many, many scientific articles about these catastrophic numbers – just a sampling of some of general interest and some more academic.

workshop2_robertsDownload
Fish-and-Overfishing-Our-World-in-DataDownload
How-overfishing-threatens-the-worlds-oceans—and-why-it-could-end-in-catastropheDownload
Human-impacts-on-fisheries-resources-and-abundance-in-the-Danish-Wadden-Sea-c1520-to-the-present-Download
The-effects-of-118-years-of-industrial-fishing-on-UK-bottom-trawl-fisheries-Nature-CommunicationsDownload
The-Issue-of-Overfishing-in-the-United-States-Department-of-EnglishDownload

The latest migration count from Hawk Mountain is in.

Maybe some ideas….I recall once when my children were quite little seeing someone hanging the thin orange slices on their spruce tree outdoors. Here we coat the pinecones with melted suet and roll them in bird seed and hang them throughout the lilacs during the winter.

Thank you for being with me today. It is so nice to have you here with us. Take care. See you soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, videos, streaming cams, and articles that helped me to write my blog today: ‘A, H, HP, J, SP’, Holly Parsons, Friends of Midway Atoll, PLO, Bart M, Sydney Sea Eagle FB, Charles Sturt Falcon Cam, NEFL-AEF, Ventana Wildlife Society, C Roberts, Our World in Data, National Geographic, BMC, Nature Communications, US Dept of English, Helgoland Marine Research, Centreport and Liz Schwartz, Hawk Mountain, and Wildlife Watch.

Monday in Bird World

4 December 2023

Good Morning Everyone,

Ah, I slept in! A first in such a long time. It was a bit of a worrisome day yesterday watching Port Lincoln and trying to figure out their experiment’s goals. Then there was the problem with Grayish and the lingering question of whether we will add a fourth to the lovely and happy household. How would Grayish change that dynamic or good groove? Since ‘H’ alerted me yesterday, eyes have been on Anna at the Kistachie National Forest nest E1. She appears to be preparing for egg laying. That would be grand.

Well, Sunday turned out to be an interesting day. As you know, we expect to add a little boy temporarily named Grayish to ‘the girls’. The foster mother returned home today and called to make arrangements. Well, it turns out that Greyish’s information was lacking in two critical details. First, Grayish is not a little boy. She is most definitely a girl. Secondly, Grayish has only eaten raw food. I have had cats since I could crawl – actually before and my experience has been that the females are very sweet and allow you to cuddle with them when they want. It is the males that are the most friendly. Lewis loved to cuddle with Missey, but also with me. So I am not certain that I want another female or that having another female would be good for the mix that is current. They are now getting along splendidly. Calico and Hope have claimed the old cat tree in the conservatory and Missey has claimed the new one. The ownership of other items such as baskets and chairs doesn’t seem to be a problem. It switches constantly. Then there is the issue of the raw food which I have discovered the kitten adoption agency does not agree to – so what is going on? There are those that adhere to the notion that it is better because felines in the wild ate animals and the food was raw. It is, however, know to lack certain minerals and vitamins so I would have to research that. — But more so, is the fact that I don’t want to be feeding four cats different food; raw food is so expensive in my city that feeding it to four cats is prohibitive. It would be an issue for Grayish to switch and I don’t wish to compromise her and what she is used to. — So there we are. I continue to wonder if these are not signs that three perfectly happy female cats is enough.

Calico anticipating story time!

Hope is getting ready to jump on Mamma!

Missey looking down deciding if she is going to leap on Hope and start a race.

The most fun for me today in Bird World was watching Shadow and Jackie move a big stick around. These two work together, sometimes disagree, and are always amazing and give us a smile!

The couple became fixated on this one particular branch that was irking them.

There are continued concerns over V3 at the NEFlorida Eagle Nest. Last year ‘A’ wondered about his ability to father and this year that concern is growing amongst watchers as Gabby is clearly entering a fertile phase. Will she not have eaglets again this year? Do we need that threesome with A1? Why not? We wait!

We have our Royal Cam couple at Taiaroa Head! Oh, they are the parents of Taika and Karere, both Royal Cam chicks in past years. This is fantastic and it is so good to see both of them safely back to breed.

There is news coming about Flaco, the Eurasian Owl, that escaped from the Central Park Zoo. He resided in Central Park and has now moved into Manhattan. Why might this be the case? Have a read!

Eurasian-Eagle-Owl-Upper-West-Side-Urban-HawksDownload

There have been no sightings of Diamond and Xavier doing any flight training or prey deliveries. I hope when I wake up and check I can delete that sentence.

Is this one of the fledglings from the Olympic Park nest of Lady and Dad? It doesn’t say, but Rohan Geddes has taken images of one of the eaglets and posted it previously.

Waiting at Port Lincoln.

As I write, it is now more than 50 hours since either of the Osplets or Mum and Dad at Port Lincoln have had any fish – either caught by the adults or provided by the Fish Fairies.

Dad brought in a nice fish. It was headless so he had a meal. Looks like the time was around 15:32. Kids are famished. So is Mum. Way to go, Dad. Mum was good to make sure that both were fed.

Then Mum caught a fish around 16:14 and the Fairy arrived at 16:41. Before Dad’s delivery, I had written a tirade. 50 plus hours is a long time to let osplets wait to eat…there is a point where this becomes very unhealthy as all of you watching osplets die on nests know. So what was the goal of this experiment precisely? To get two osplets to fledge? or to see if adult ospreys would stop fishing if fish was delivered? and then start if it wasn’t? or was it both? Things began to feel very uneasy.

Why are the days without fish not being recorded? That would alter the calculations and be misleading. Days not reported on the Fish Chart that had zero fish:  8/20, 8/13, 9/12, 10/13, and 12/3.

Let us hope that there is more news today in Bird World. Thank you for being with me today. Please take care of yourself. We hope to have you with us again soon.

Thank you to the following for their notes, videos, articles, charts, and string cams that helped me to write my blog this morning: ‘H, J’, FOBBV, Royal Cam Albatross, Bruce Yolton and Urban Hawks, Rohan Geddes, and the Port Lincoln Ospreys.

Sunday in Bird World

3 December 2023

Hello Everyone,

I hope this blog finds you well. As I mentioned earlier in the week, news in Bird World is quite thin. Until we have eaglets hatching or are on fledge watch at PLO, things are pretty boring. I have mentioned a great book on ospreys at the end of this blog today. I highly recommend it and if you are looking for a super gift for a friend that loves ospreys, it would be a perfect present.

The trip to the pet was to get two big bags of dry cat food – one for the kittens and one for the group gathering food to give to those who cannot afford to feed their pets. Pet food has gone up around 32%. It is tragic if people have to dump or surrender their trusted friends, so finding several resources in my City that are helping has reassured me that humans can be generous. But the trip turned out to be more than that. I am trying to get the house ready for the little brother’s arrival. The latest addition to Cat World is a shorter cat tree for the girls and the new baby boy. There should now be enough perches and places to hide, look out over one’s territory, and to jump and play to maintain civility amongst the felines. Keep your fingers crossed!

Missey has been the only cat that has noticed the new piece of furniture. She made sure that she was all over it this afternoon. Hope just finished her chicken dinner, walked by it and didn’t even look. She is out to find Mamma and see if Calico left any food in her dish. Yes, Hope eats much more than Calico now. She is growing and is getting very long.

These Maine Coons are the sweetest and most calm cats. I wonder if Missey still misses Lewis as much as I do? She loves playing with Hope which has been a real blessing.

I guess she must have marked it as hers. Calico and Hope have not even gone near the new cat tree!

Some news from Bird world-.

‘A’ sends us a big report form the NE Florida nest:

“It’s early morning at NEFL (06:00) and both Gabby and V3 are in the nest tree. Gabby spent the night there. V3 flew off around 00:28, but is back in the nest tree now, perched on Wallenda. It seems both of them are protecting their territory. There has been no further sign of the intruder since he left late yesterday morning. Around 06:01, Gabby was in the nest bowl. C’mon V3, she still seems to be waiting for you, but she’s definitely willing to consider other options. 

Here is the description of the events from the log (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mpMqyoaEKIxztAg3s4m-cf95J79W6bV6JKYbdqS4eeg/edit#gid=1961113004). 

Morning Activity: Gabby arrived @ 8:12 am on Wallenda with a nice crop…she was doing her feaking. During morning chat @ 9:08 am a visitor arrived in the nest….and, well, during chat the visitor mated with Gabby…total surprise to everyone. Gabby moved to LOP @ 11:25 am…the visitor remained perched on Wallenda. They appeared to be watching someone overhead. The visitor returned to the nest and then flew off @ 11:36 am. Gabrielle remained at LOP. Then at 11:40 am V3 returned to the nest with vocals. He hopped up to Sunset Branch, while Gabby remained perched at LOP as of noontime. 

Afternoon Activity: As of noontime, Gabby and V3 were both perched, Gabby at LOP and V3 on Sunset Branch. They were both doing some preening and there were vocals @ 12:48 pm. V3 moved to another branch by the cams @ 1:05 pm and both he and Gabby let out more vocals. @ 1:32 pm V3 moved over high on LOP branch to join Gabby. More vocals by both @ 1:46 pm…V3 flew off @ 1:49 pm and returned on Wallenda @ 1:52 pm with vocals. Nice rouse by V3 @ 2:09 pm….more vocals by both. V3 flew off @ 2:47 pm and came right back @ 2:48 pm…he landed on LOP and moved up higher above Gabby. Gabby flew and V3 flew off right behind her @ 3:09 pm. V3 was back again on Wallenda @ 3:54 pm. He moved to LOP. He flew off @ 5:13 pm in the direction of the Lumber Yard. Gretchen’s tuck report: “Whew…..a turn of events in the Hamlet today! But no aggression and all is calm. Surprise #1 was the visitor returned again, and a BIG Surprise #2 when he and Gabby mated! (video posted above). V3 doesn’t seem to engage in any chase on cam, but he often returns to the nest right after the visitor flies, as he did today…..a mystery. We’ve all accepted and favor V3 for many reasons, but we go with the flow and have no control. It’s proven to be Gabby’s nest! When I left the LY tonight V3 was still perched there solo, and it was getting fairly dark. He arrived there about 5:15pm, after leaving the nest tree. We all stay tuned and TTE (Trust The Eagles)”.

Evening Activity: Gabrielle and V3 arrived back at the nest together on Wallenda @ 9:17 pm….Gretchen said to scrap her tuck report from earlier! 

“V3 and Gabby are constantly together, on the nest tree, in the lumber yard. They fly in to the nest tree, usually Gabby first immediately followed by V3. They work together on the nest (as they were doing around 17:30 last night (2 December), before heading off to perch together in the lumber yard. They are deeply bonded. All that remains is for V3 to gain confidence and practice. Gabby can be intimidating! 

The visitor the other day literally landed on Gabby’s back with little or no warning. She appeared a little surprised. Certainly, she did not initiate or encourage it, as she has tried to do with V3 on more than one occasion (he’s nervous of her, and usually moves away up the branch or even moves to a nearby branch). He has made one clumsy attempt that I have witnessed, and although it was not successful, it was at least a step in the right direction. He knows what he SHOULD be doing. He just finds Gabby a wee bit intimidating and he lacks both confidence and experience. Hopefully, he will gain both over the coming weeks. 

I have checked the laying dates at this nest, and it is noteworthy that the most recent clutch from Gabby and Sampson was laid in December 2021 – the first egg arriving on 17 December. The year before that, she laid on 31 December 2020. And the year before that, she laid in mid-January – 13 January 2020. So that’s a pretty wide range – from 17 December, which is exactly a fortnight away, to mid-January, which of course is six weeks away. That’s a pretty lengthy window, but were Gabby to lay an egg fertilised by the recent visitor, it would be significantly earlier than she usually lays. “

Thanks, A.

Ron was at the WRDC nest this afternoon checking on what needs to be done.

Rita was there, too, working away.

There are intruder eagles wanting the food M15 is delivering to the nest.

There was an owl strike on M15 and I missed it. Oh, dear.

Harriet will always be loved and remembered.

Meanwhile, there are two eggs for Alex and Andria at the KNF E-3 nest and we still wait for Louis and Anna at E-1. Personally, I think it is great that they did not lay the eggs at the same time. We will certainly get a good lesson eagle development.

Anna is a big girl!

Smitty has not been seen since the 21-22 of September. The new male and Bella have bonded. He was at the nest in the evening on Saturday.

We are five days away from hatch at Superbeaks and Pepe and Muhlady might be listening to their beautiful babies this morning. Mark your calendars for 8 December hatch watch.

They are waiting for some fish at Port Lincoln.

These two are working on those wings! This nest seems to get smaller!

There was no good on the nest yesterday. It did not trigger a fishing response by either parent.

Beautiful Diamond looking out of the scrape at Orange that she shares with Xavier.

Xavier was on the MW. Can you see him?

The Three Bridges eagles are certainly anxious for eggs.

Bobby Horvath is one of our heroes. He was ready and willing to go and help the fourth hatch at Patchogue. Thankfully his services were not needed. It is wonderful to see the community reach out and help WINOOR. A great cheque was presented to help with rehab events! Thanks, ‘J’ for sending us the news from Long Island.– This holiday season, if you can, add a little to the ‘kitty’ of your local wildlife rehabber. They will appreciate it.

Tim Mackrill’s new book will be released in the UK in February.

Tim’s book for the RSPB is excellent and very reasonably priced. It is highly recommended. In fact, I think it is one of the best books on Ospreys published.

AI is being used to count birds.

AI-employed-to-count-Chinese-waterbirds-BirdGuidesDownload

Oh, the news in Bird World is thin this time of year. Take care everyone. Will try and get some new photos of the girls today for you. See you soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, articles, videos, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog this morning.

‘A, H, J’, NEFL-AEF, WRDC, Androcat, Marti Lord, Tonya Irwin, KNF-E3 and E1, Superbeaks, Deb Stecyk, PLO, HeidiMc, Charles Sturt Falcon Cam, Trudi Kron, WINORR, Amazon, and Severson Dells Nature Centre.

Oh, Gabby, oh…Saturday in Bird World

2 December 2023

Good Morning!

I had a couple of conversations with an individual from the Bay Area in California on Friday. Our weather in Winnipeg is -1, with a low of -7 C. It is warm compared to when I moved to the Canadian Prairies – or that is my memory. Having far too many -30 or -35 C days was not unusual then. To stay warm, we dress for the cold, and our houses usually have double (double glazing) and triple-pane windows (triple glazing) with good insulation. I was asked what is the average temperature in December and I had to go and check. It is -8 for a high and -15 C for a low currently.

Dyson was in the table feeder eating yesterday. Oh, how I love that squirrel. I often miss her. She was really enjoying the solid nut block. And that nice thick fur for winter. Fantastic.

Little Red was back in the lilacs foraging on the ground along with eons of Sparrows. The European Starlings are here and I heard the Pileated Woodpecker but did not see it. What amazes me are the Chickadees that flit back and forth from a spruce tree across the road to the feeders in the coldest of weather. Each girl loves to watch them from the conservatory. Hope also jumps up and down trying to catch the birds on her bird TV programmes. It is so funny. She is a clone of Mamma.

When Calico came into our lives, I dismantled my old office for her. This meant that about three thousand books (yes, academics are book collectors) got put on temporary bookcases. Lately I have been wondering why the glass of the Japanese prints was so dirty and why the frames were always crooked in the morning. Now, I have my answer. Hope likes to walk and leap at them during the late night partying. I will be so glad to have those books back in their right spot.

Hope. Everything starts to happen around 2130 at night!

Missey continues to work on the twinkle tree. It is looking a little bedraggled with the branches pulled this way and that, too.

The girls are great. They have been doing their usual thing – Hope wants to watch the bird videos but sometimes excepts an old BritBox mystery. Calico eats and sleeps waking up around 2130 to wrestle with Hope and run over the house. Missey loves to play with Hope and both have once again, been around the twinkle tree.

I sound like a broken record, but every time I scratch Calico under her chin and she begins to purr or rolls over on her back for more, I melt. Cannot imagine her out in the cold.

Hope is very long. You can just see that little scab that is bothering me at the site of her incision. Talk about being a worried human Mamma!

I caught Missey as she came leaping to the top of a chair to get away form Hope.

The girls do not know it, but we are on the countdown to the little brother’s arrival. Like the eggs at Superbeaks, it is less than a week away. Will his name be Duncan after so many people, including my dad? Or Duncan Lewis, whose empathy saved the chimps? There are many more environmentalists. Or will it wind up being Hugo? All I know is that he must love people and want to snuggle! And not let these three older sisters intimidate him. He should be OK on that front. He was one of 7 kittens, all female, but he was born to a very tiny little kitten named Eva, young like Calico. I wish I could take her, too, but four is the maximum along with the outdoor kitties.

I am happy to say that ‘A’ is back with us. She kept good eyes on the Australian nests for me today while I spoke with folks in California about a podcast interview. I’ll let you know more about that at a later date. It is so nice to have ‘A’ back and to hear that things are going well in Melbourne.

‘A’ brings us really good news from Sydney and the Parramatta River: “December 1: both adults were at River Roost early, on separate branches, grooming then duetting. Juvenile was behind in the mangroves, out of sight but heard. The adults then moved together, duetting, with juvenile still noisy too. Later around 11am, parent delivered a fish at RR, eaten by juvenile. There was some disturbance over the wetlands with helicopter circling for mosquito control. Later in the afternoon around 5pm our juvenile was seen flying around & behind Mangrove Island Wonderful to see her flying so strongly and coping with a few chasers.

As I keep saying, this must be a joy to Lady and Dad as well – the very first time they have had the chance to do this with one of their eaglets. I am incredibly sad, and to be honest a little surprised, that only one of our juveniles appears to have made it, but considering the sad history of this nest, this is truly an achievement to celebrate.”

‘A’ reflects on Port Lincoln – its official report and her thoughts: “Breakfast is currently underway at Port Lincoln (10:30am local time) – the fish fairies arrived early this morning. Fran says mum picks the boat up from a mile away and goes to her ‘fish fairy perch’ and escorts them in. I wonder whether the osplets will be so familiar with the fish fairies that they see them as sources of food and are more likely to approach them than fludge! That would be interesting. But of course they won’t risk that and will cease the fish deliveries after they band the osplets.I remain extremely worried about what happens then. Two fully feathered osplets, not quite ready to fledge, on a nest where the parents bring in perhaps one fish a day, two at most. Imagine the incredible tragedy of losing them at that stage. We have about a week, 10 days at most probably, before we find out. I am apprehensive in the extreme.”

This was a really early delivery. Will we hope that Mum or Dad go out fishing later? Looks as if nothing is left on the nest for a bedtime snack.

Both osplets are working on their self-feeding, two different styles. Giliath stands up and #2 likes to eat duckling style.

Ervie has found a very special place to go fishing…he has progressed from those early puff fish to abalone! Do you wonder if either of the osplets from this season will fish for puffers? And don’t you just miss seeing Ervie on that nest. If I close my eyes, I can still see him flying in with a puffer stuck to his talons – a talon missing – and him munching away. What a wonderful osprey he is!

At Orange, ‘A’ remarks: “The sole surviving juvenile at Orange is doing well this morning. It has been spotted chasing its parents and on the tower roof. Cilla has taken a video – I will send it as soon as it is uploaded to the info section below the live stream. The weather has cleared up in Orange today and it looks like a lovely day. “

The biggest news with the Bald Eagles is what is going on at NorthEast Florida. V3 was a little late to come to the nest. In flew, A1 and him and Gabby got a little friendly. Will this turn out to be a threesome like the Trio on the Minneapolis Flyway? Does Gabby mate with A1 and has his eaglets raised by V3? Is Gabby not fertile yet? Will V3 get the boot? It really is ‘As the Nest Turns’ and I thought things had quieted down this year.

Wow. What an expression. It reminds me of individuals who ride bucking horses in the American and Canadian rodeos. You can tell A1 from V3 if you can get a chance to look at their talons. A1 has quite a number of black lesions just like one of the females after M15 last year.

V3 flies in a few minutes later to his branch and Gabby doesn’t say a word. “Oh, it has been a very quiet morning, dear.”

Bella and the new young male are still together.

Finally some Osprey action at Captiva!

A juvenile at the Osprey House nest enjoying its fish.

Missed the California Condor Rookie Release? Here you go!

News coming from Kahui and Hob Osterlund and the Laysan Albatross. Thanks, Holly!

When I continue to talk about how much politics is mixed up with the health of raptors in the grouse moor estates, here is a good read for those who do not understand why this issue is not going away. Why it is important to get a sound law and why it is important to make sure that unbiased individuals enforce it. Unbelievable.

A-Scottish-grouse-moor-owning-baron-an-illegally-pole-trapped-peregrine-and-a-Ministerial-post-in-DDownload

Last, please do not purchase any bird seed this season in the mesh holders. You can help stop their use by refusing to purchasing and telling the shop owners to stop buying them for sale. You can also tell them why. Our nature centre had these monstrous things last year! At the same time, it is just as dangerous to purchase fruit and veg in these bags. They go to the landfill and it is there that all manner of birds get tangled in them. You must cut them up finely.

Thank you so much for being with me this morning as we wait…to see what will happen at the NEFlorida, for the eggs to hatch at Superbeaks and then elsewhere. Take care. See you soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, comments, videos, articles, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog this morning: ‘A’, Sydney Sea Eagles, Charles Sturt Falcon Cam, Cilla Kinross, NEFL-AEF Deb Stecyk, HeidiMc Osprey House, Holly Parsons, Ventana Wildlife, Raptor Persecution UK, and Robin Sitka.

Friday in Bird World

1 December 2023

Good Morning Everyone,

It is going to be another -1 day tomorrow. It is not 00:39 and is only -5C. Wow. We have had some lovely weather albeit damp to the bone. That I do not like. It reminds me of my first December living in the UK. Frozen. Wet.

The girls were not impressed with the electrician working on the thermostat for the floor heating in the conservatory. It meant that they could not be in their favourite room for part of the day. Wish I could have understood the ‘cat’ talk! They all found places to sleep to wait it out.

Precious Hope aka ‘Bushy Tail’. Oh, I thought something had happened to her incision. It looked like dried blood. Geemeff calmed me down by mentioning a ‘scab’. Hope is ravenous and back to herself in terms of eating and playing. She has been batting at my hands this evening wanting more treats. She has now learned to eat fast so that Mamma will not come and eat her food and goodies. What a girl. Oh, do I adore her. Feeling blessed every day having them in my life. It is now 15 days after her surgery.

Mamma on her favourite hard chair – she beat Missey to get to it. Missey found a really secret spot and I could not find her for a photo.

‘The Boyfriend’ came around for some dinner. The deck is getting a good cleaning this weekend, and he will have a permanent feeding station with a nice roof – big enough that he can go in and out and his food will stay dry.

There is not much going on in Bird World. When those eaglets start hatching, things will pick up, but that is a few weeks away. (I am looking forward to Osprey season, which is even further away….grrrrr). Until then, my blog will likely be shorter than normal. I will try to hit on the new events or changes with comments on the Australian nests until we have some eagle hatches. Superbeaks is a week away.

At the NTCT nest of Bella, the new young male and her have bonded and are working on the nest. Smitty has not been seen since 21 September. That is now two months and a week. Bella has moved on.

What will happen at the NE Florida Bald Eagle nest of Gabby and V3 is entirely unclear. There were no eggs last year and this was believed to be because of the turmoil surrounding the territorial dispute and which male would take Samson’s place. So far, we have not seen V3 and Gabby bond on camera, but this does not mean they haven’t. I do find it a bit unusual, however.

Don’t begin to think of eaglets at SW Florida til after the 24th/25th of December. We are a ways away. Superbeaks is first with Muhlady and Pepe, then we have Alex and Andria at KNF-E3, and Connie and Clive at Captiva.

As far as I know, no new eggs have been laid at the other Bald Eagle nests. Please feel free to send me any news!

At Port Lincoln, Mum had the Trevally out and fed the chicks and herself early in the morning. Then, as I understand it, Dad came and took the fish and appeared to have lost it. It was a huge, beautiful fish. It would have kept them going for the morning and spread out the feedings. Remember that ringing is less than a week away – December 8. #2 will get its name, and we will hear the measurements. Remember. Measurements are not a firm determinant of gender. Calypso was deemed to be a female. Calypso turns out to be a female!

Gosh, these two are gorgeous. Imagine. We are nearing fledge.

The fish fairy arrived at 16:30. Everyone was hungry! (What impact, if any, does having only one meal a day or two have on feather development etc? Will there be stress lines? There has been no indication of the birds being stressed and their plumage looks good but, we often think of osplets having 5 or 6 meals a day -).

There are still fish left for later. This is fantastic.

Look at those wings.

This video of the juvenile from two days ago. ‘H’ found Cilla’s response, “FalconCam: Regarding the identification of the peregrine fledgling that landed on the tower roof next to the lightning rod on 11/30, Cilla stated:  “I’m not convinced either way. We are hoping it will come to the box where it is easy to measure it.”  She added:  “It is a very frequent occurrence that fledglings don’t make it past the first few weeks while learning to fly.  They are prone to crashes into telegraph wires, windows, buildings, treetops, etc”

A mystery at The Campanile is solved – our two favourite falcons on the UC-Berkeley Campus, Annie and Lou.

There is good news coming from various countries and agencies about the moves to protect wildlife and try and stop human destruction in all its forms.

Flamingos are receiving protection, “On their long-striving strolls through the wide wetlands of the Doñana, the flamingos can hopefully take their bath in peace again. The Spanish and Andalucian governments finally came to terms and signed a joint agreement to abolish destructive agriculture methods, as well as to invest 1.4 billion Euros to support sustainable farming in the region of Doñana.”

The-rebirth-of-the-Donana-BirdLife-InternationalDownload

The Grouse Moor licensing bill in Scotland has passed its first reading.

Grouse-moor-licensing-bill-passes-Stage-1-–-Raptor-Persecution-UKDownload

Gannets ‘ foraging patterns indicate changes due to climate. What other birds might use adaptive techniques?

Finding-food-deciphering-the-foraging-‘fingerprints-of-Gannets-BTO-British-Trust-for-OrnitholoDownload

Wow. Just had to post this. An osprey light!!!! Goodness. Someone was talented.

Thank you so much for being with me today. Take care. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, comments, videos, articles, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog today: ‘H’, Superbeaks, NCTC, Deb Stecyk, NEFL-AEF, SWFlorida Eagle Cam, PLO, Liznm, SK Hideaways, Birdlife International, Raptor Persecution UK, BTO, and Marisa Macfarlane.

Marri or Barru?…Thursday in Bird World

30 November 2023

Good Morning Everyone,

It is the last day of November and only another month til we officially enter 2024. It flew by.

It was only -1 C on the Canadian Prairies on Wednesday. The sun was shining. The sky was bright. It was pretty unbelievable. It was the day for my flu shot, and, as a treat, I had a very, very light lunch looking out over the duck pond at the zoo. The Black-capped Chickadees were flitting about while the pond had open water in the deeper areas with very thin ice at the edges. I dream of the day the geese come flying in, honking and pooping everywhere. After I gathered up a few things to add to some pine branches for the front door. Missey was right in there helping put things together!

She was rolling in the paper, and only later I caught her with a tiny bell that had been on one of the little blue birds. Calico slept in the chair by the table. She did not mind Missey getting all the attention and could care less about crafts. We decided to go with a blue and white theme this year with birds and a few things from different cultures for all the festivities in December.

Bird news is pretty scarce right now but there are a number of running jokes about trees and cats!

One for the girls – thanks ‘auntie’.

The latest news from Sydney sent by ‘A’:

“November 29: both adults and juvenile were at the River Roost early in the morning. Light rain and the juvenile was heard whining. Around 9am, one adult flew into the mangroves and towards the west, up- river. Around 2pm the juvenile was seen low on a mangrove branch at the juvenile roost. Neither adult was seen then by our observer. Later in the afternoon, a storm was approaching and cameras were then both down. No feeding has been reported. More rain in the evening.”

Look closely. The juvenile is in the centre of the image – a slight diagonal line between the adults and up a tad. This is fantastic.

‘A’ has the latest at Sydney: “November 30: early morning both adults were at Goat Island. At 8:44, the juvenile flew out from River Roost area, low over the water and in front of Mangrove Island, where she landed. Then she flew back to River Roost. At 12:30, the juvenile was at River Roost, where it was seen yesterday. Again, between 1230 and 1:30, juvenile was making low flights over the water and from branch to branch. 2:10 adult was at River Roost and juvenile as well, given away by its raspy squeeing. At 3:30 the adult flew off, returning with prey around 4pm – greeted with eager squeeing by the juvenile. She ate, with the adult watching close by.”

‘H’ has the up to date information at Orange as of this morning: “At 162308 a Juvenile landed on the corner of the roof next to the LR (lightning rod).  A few minutes later, Xavier landed on the MW (microwave).  Diamond was in the nest box at the time. Even though the tower camera is slightly closer to the MW than the corner of the roof, the juvenile on the roof still appears to be larger than Xavier (to my eyes).  We know that Marri was larger than Xavier.  Food for thought.”

“Cilla is going to check photos of Diamond and Xavier standing next to the LR for a size comparison to this juvenile.”

‘A’ writes about Orange: “At Orange, I’m sure you’ve seen the most recent (21 November, so 8 days ago) footage of the falcon juvenile we believe to be Barru (at least I do, for several reasons, though we are still unsure due to Barru’s long toes in one shot): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAeCZRh9k4Q&t=0s Since then, it has been raining for days around Orange (ditto here in Melbourne, where it’s been raining for a couple of days, including pretty much all day today, and the rain is forecast to continue). I do wonder what happened to poor Marri. who was strong and who flew with great control when fledging, so I am genuinely very surprised that she has not survived. I really did think she was the more prepared of the two, but when you watch the pics of this juvenile (both the footage in the above clip and the footage of him on the roof with Xavier, dropping the prey dad had brought), you can see that he is more than a little clumsy, both in relation to flying in and around that tree and in regard to keeping his balance on that rooftop, especially trying to turn around at one stage. To me, the slightly ragged plumage is also more like Barru than Marri, whose constant wingercising had removed pretty much all her down before she fledged. “

At Port Lincoln, Dad was on the nest with Mum waiting for the Fairy. Dad must be really hungry and he is thinking he wants to be in line, too.

Wings are getting bigger.

Waiting for fish. Dad has moved to the shed.

Fish delivery was late. Wonder if it was due to bad weather? 17:18.

A lot of disinformation and speculation is happening on some of the chats. It is one of the reasons that many of the streaming cams do not have a chat feature or others who post videos do not allow comments. I usually do not say anything, but sometimes, we have to ask ourselves many questions and explore the whole situation, and even then, we might be missing a critical piece of evidence. So before I get on my soapbox, to be transparent, I am almost always in favour of intervention to help wildlife. It is important to me because humans have destroyed the world for our feathered friends. We can no longer sit back and ‘let nature take its course’ because we have altered nature to the point it is hard to recognise. We have taken the habitat or our wildlife and continue to do so at an alarming rate. We dump our sewage into their water. We overfish. We poison. We burn. Need I say more?

We do not know why the PLO Dad is not fishing more. Some believe it is because of the fish brought to the nest by the fairies. But is this the case? We know that Dad had at least two seizures last year on camera. Did he have more off-camera and off-season? Does he have neurological issues caused by an accident or disease? We would only know this with an examination and necroscopy. What is happening with El Niño? With the warming of the water? With the commercial fishing in the area? With the tides and the lousy weather? Pollutants? The list of human-caused issues in any specific region, including South Australia, can be endless.

The PLO nest has suffered significant siblicide compared to other nests in other geographical regions. The individuals on the board running Port Lincoln Ospreys/Friends of Sth Australia fought hard and are determined to see if supplying fish will alter those statistics. It looks like we already have our answer in two strong osplets. As viewers, we will never know the ‘gestalt’ – the ‘whole’ situation at Port Lincoln. If you get the chance, encourage others to show respect and applaud the efforts of Fran, Janet, and Bazz to run this research project. It has saved the lives of at least one of the chicks, if not both. And the health of Mum and Dad. Those fish are lifesavers.

The fight for fish at Osprey House.

A gorgeous sub-adult spent some time on the natal tree on the Pritchett Property on Wednesday. Former fledgling coming to check out what is happening?

M15 gives F23 a break!

We are waiting for eggs at KNF-E1, the home of Louis and Anna in Louisiana.

What a gorgeous fall day at Barnegat Light. The geese are there along with a stunning sunset and mind-shattering colour!

At least one adult was on the Achieva Osprey platform in St Petersburg, Florida.

At the Captiva Osprey platform, it looked like someone had given the entire landscape a pink watercolour wash. Will we have occupants this year?

They are not falcons but Bald Eagles of various ages near Newmann’s scrape at Great Spirit Bluff.

We have Common Goldeneye that come to breed in Manitoba during the spring and summer. They are incredibly beautiful – just look at those glowing yellow eyes! I still remember the first time I saw one at the pond in the St Boniface Industrial Park. Research indicates that if left undisturbed by humans, they are more successful during the breeding season. ——– This seems obvious. Did I miss something?

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Kelly Sorenson and his team at Ventana Wildlife Foundation rank right up there in terms of dedication. What they have done for wildlife in California is phenomenal. If you would like to learn more about the triumphs and challenges of reintroducing nearly extinct species, listen to the discussion with Kelly. (The link should take you to the podcast).

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The latest migration count by Hawk Mountain.

Your inbox has undoubtedly been full of calls for donations or fundraising. It is the time of year when our nature centres and wildlife rehabbers do their final push for much-needed funds. I am just going to use the following promotion as an example. Today I noticed that someone wished to purchase some of the merch from Glaslyn but felt that they couldn’t because they lived elsewhere. My experience is that almost every centre will make an effort to get items shipped anywhere in the world. Glaslyn is no exception. Dyfi ships also…many now have fixed their forms to include out-of-the-way places. The Royal Albatross Centre has sent me possum hats (they are so soft) and books over the years, and it takes about 18 days for parcels from New Zealand to arrive in Canada. So, if there are things that you wish for yourself or to gift to someone else, and you cannot see a way to have the items shipped to your location, find the contact information and ask them!

Take care everyone! Thank you for being with me today. We hope to have you with us soon.

Thank you to the following for their notes, fun graphics, videos, articles, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog today: ‘A, H’, Sydney Sea Eagles, Penny Albright, Metzger, PLO, Osprey House, Lady Hawk, Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ, KNF-E1, Bird Guides, Achieva, Explore.org, SOS, and Hawk Mountain.

Connick will go to the Smithsonian…Wednesday in Bird World

29 November 2023

Good Morning Everyone,

Everything is just fine in Cat World. The girls had to be separated because the electrician came to work on the heating in the conservatory. Calico had been snippy yesterday, and I wondered how she would be after I opened the door. The three had their chicken dinner, and Missey settled in Calico’s chair for a nice after-supper nap. Calico went over and noticed where Missey was, and I held my breath. Then Calico proceeded to go to another chair, which was softer actually. Hope went on her little placemat, and the world smiled. I felt proud of my girls and much relieved.

Everyone says it is making sure there are enough places to nap, enough places to get up high, enough spots to hide, toys, cuddles and food – oh, yes, and litter boxes. Well, the three have lots of choices. Anyone visiting me would notice two things – an enormous amount of books and the house being more or less a kitty daycare. So, hopefully, that will do it.

Geemeff came through for me when Calico had her surgery with the suggestion of an antiseptic cream and using olive oil to keep the area moist enough so that the skin did not get taut while healing. It sure worked. Calico never licked, and she healed up nicely. Today, Geemeff suggested Omega 3 oil for Calico and her arthritis. We are going to go for it and see if it will help. So reluctant to put any of them through a visit to the vet after seeing how traumatised Hope was.

Tonight, the profile of a rabbit eating under the feeders was seen. Thank goodness for a nearly full moon. Oh, it is terrific. Not all of them have been killed by cars or cats.

There is not much time to sit! And we saw the rabbit when we were getting ready for storytime. These girls know everything that happens in the garden. Nothing slips past them! They are enjoying The Meaning of Geese the second time around. Like a good film or book, what you miss the first time is often revealed the second. I would love to be on a bicycle going around Norfolk looking for Pink-footed geese.

A few seconds before, Hope was trying to get in the basket with Calico. She does not realise how big she is! On Saturday, Hope will be 5 months old.

Oh, and one last thing. Remember I purchased some bird seed specific for Blue Jays (Sparrows eat anything)? Junior, the Dad, had been the only one at the table feeder. It seemed that all the others had migrated as many do. Well, I looked out this morning, and there was Junior and the baby of the summer’s clutch! That baby nestled with the two little clay bird figurines on the deck looks the same, just bigger. So happy to see it, along with over 35 Starlings and possibly 100 Sparrows. I did not get a photograph of the two jays…maybe today. But it was priceless to see the two.

‘H’ was busy keeping me up to date today. Thank you! She sent the first item. The big news of the day comes out of Audubon Centre for Birds of Prey. Our friend, Lisa, mentioned earlier in the year that it was planned that Connick would be released in the summer. Then there were issues with a couple of his feathers. It turns out that Connick would not have been able to live in the wild – he will always have feather growth problems. So, Connie and Clive’s 2022 hatch from Captiva will spend the rest of his life as an ambassador at the Smithsonian.

A-Patriotic-New-Chapter-for-Connick-Popular-Captiva-Island-Nest-Cam-Eaglet-Audubon-Center-for-BirDownload

Secondly, ‘H’ solved my riddle of what the acronym MW at Orange stood for – and then SP sent me an entire listing of acronyms used at Orange. I know she will not mind my sharing! Perhaps some of you are as baffled as I am – and do not have time to spend on chat sorting these out. So grateful. Thanks, H and SP!

Acronyms from SP:

“SP = short pole on the slant of the roof by the hatch window

LR = lightning rod

MW = round microwave communications dish

MWB = MW bracket

LHC = left-hand corner of roof top”

Photo of MW with explanations and falcon from ‘H’:

Gris grabbed a screen capture of a juvenile on the LHC (?).

Holly Parsons grabbed a screen capture of a juvenile flying by Xavier sitting on the ledge. We know there is one juvenile still in the territory. It is believed to be Barru. There have not been two juveniles seen ‘together’. Because banding has never been approved for this research project, it is impossible to tell if there is only one or two. That said, it is reassuring to see one flying so well. That is a feat getting to the top of that tower. Perhaps soon they will be in the scrape. Wouldn’t that be grand? Screaming for prey like Izzi?

It is nearing noon and Mum and Giliath and #2 (gosh, it will be exciting to find out its name) are waiting for some fish.

It is nearing 1530 and still no fish. Janet Forster has just posted on chat that the fish are being weighed. It won’t be long Mum!

The weather has not been good for some days with wind and choppy water making it difficult for Dad to fish – and maybe even the fairies.

The fairy arrives! Will promise not to mention it too many more times, but I would like you to contemplate what would have happened to these two beautifully feathered and unique osplets without the supplemental fish.

Chicks pancaked as the fairy approaches.

V3 and Gabby were working away at their nest. They are a gorgeous couple. Let’s hope there are well fed eaglets on this nest for our darling Gabby this year.

M15 is taking very good care of F23. We would expect nothing less.

Tired F23.

So, so tired from laying that second egg. Dear F23. I have been busy with many things the last few days, but I have heard no news of GHOs. I shouldn’t say anything, but did I miss something?

At the WRDC, Rose is getting serious.

Pepe and Muhlady were the first to lay their eggs and today, we are only 8 days away from hatch!

The rangers at the Kisatchie National Forest are getting excited as are all the fans. Waiting for Louis and Anna to provide some eggs for that nest – Alex and Andria thankfully laid theirs early so that we will be able to completely enjoy and learn as we watch the eaglets develop.

Thunder and Akecheta were at there nest today working away!

Wow. Liberty and Guardian were both at the Redding, California Bald Eagle nest on Tuesday.

Jackie and Shadow visited the nest to move some sticks and then went to perch together on the Roost Tree. Jackie appears to have a full crop, while Shadow seems to have some prey blood on his beak. It could be the camera angle and my poor eyes – still hoping they both had a lovely meal before settling down for the night.

For Royal Cam Watchers, if you missed the news, here it is again. Video below.

Tumanako is home and looking for a mate. Will this former Royal Cam chick become a dad this season?

Kakapo might not be able to fly, but they are sure causing issues for those trying to contain them in the nature area in New Zealand! We are always reading about how smart our feathered friends are. This is very interesting – figuring out how to evade the fence!

When thinking about end-of-the-year donations, do not overlook some of those rehabbers who depend on donations and volunteers to save our wildlife, including many of the raptors that we grow to love.

A recent rescue form one of my favourite rehabbers in the US, A Place Called Hope.

If I were that squirrel, I would have been terrified.

https://outdoors.com/watch-worlds-fastest-bird-dive-bombs-after-it-drops-its-lunch/

This monstrous thing is a pole trap that was baited. There are times that I simply cannot stop fantasising about using them on the people who set them. They cause such harm (mental and physical) and death to our beloved wildlife in them.

One person commented, “The use of the pole trap was prohibited ONE HUNDRED and NINETEEN years ago. There’s absolutely no reason for anyone to possess one and as we clearly cannot trust those who do, it’s time their possession became a crime.”

The problem is complex. These hunting estates are enormous. Even if not on a hunting estate, the natural areas are vast and difficult to monitor. Then there is a judicial system that is often part of the group that frequents the hunting parties on some of the estates. At what point will killing animals stop? In the last series of The Crown, Prince William bags his buck and gets bloodied. Everyone is proud and pleased. It is those hunting traditions traced back hundreds and hundreds of years that need to come tumbling down. Will the Scottish government pass the necessary legislation? Are people sick to their stomachs about reading about another endangered species being killed? (Here I am thinking of the recent Golden Eagle…it is time to stop.)

The whole story.

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How are nature and our beloved wildlife and the climate crisis linked together?

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/nov/29/10-ways-in-which-climate-crisis-and-nature-are-linked-aoe?CMP=share_btn_link

I stare at nests around my neighbourhood. Maybe this will help me figure out who made them!

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Thank you so much for being with me today. Please take care. We hope to have you with us again soon!

Thank you to the following for their notes, posts, articles, videos, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog today: ‘EJ, Geemeff, H, SP’, Audubon Centre for Birds of Prey, Charles Sturt Falcon Cam, Gris Adriana, PLO, NEFL-AEF, Trish Rawlings, HeidiMc, Superbeaks, US Forestry Service, FORE, FOBBV, Gracie Shepherd, Lady Hawk, Holly Parsons, Kakapo Recovery, APCH, Outdoors.com, Raptor Persecution UK, The Guardian, and Audubon Vermont.

SW Florida gets its second egg…Tuesday in Bird World

28 November 2023

Hello Everyone,

It was a crisp -15 this morning and has warmed to a balmy -10 C. The sky is ‘baby blue’, and the European Starlings have filled the bare branches of the lilacs. A new seed – especially for Jays – has massively attracted the Starlings.

The girls are napping after lunch. They have a pattern. Eat. Sleep. Eat. Sleep. Then 2130 comes, and it is ‘party’ time.

I am going to put this right up front. Many of you are living in areas where it is getting cold. The mice are coming in. Lots will decide to poison them. Please don’t. There are many reasons, and here is one recent study that might help you convince others not to use poison. I had a darling, sweet three-year-old cat that I had raised on a bottle die from eating a mouse that had consumed poison in one of my neighbour’s houses or sheds. It is a tragic way for any animal to die.

New-Study-is-First-to-Find-Exposure-to-Neurotoxic-Rodenticide-Bromethalin-in-Birds-of-Prey-Tufts-NDownload

SW Florida’s M15 and his new mate F23 have their second egg right on schedule. Now the two can begin hard incubation and we might be expecting a New Year’s baby!

The Pritchett’s will post the official time.

SK Hideaways caught the joyous occasion on video.

Checking the nest at Pittsburgh-Hays, Mum and the new male.

V3 delivered a food gift to Gabby. Well done you! But, if you were watching, V3 finally ate the squirrel.

Too funny not to include!

Eagle at Redding bringing in sticks….

Meanwhile in Louisiana, eggs are being rolled at the KNF-E3 nest of Alex and Andria.

Nine more days til hatch at Superbeaks. Gosh don’t you wish that cam was fixed just a little different for that side view? I can’t imagine only watching the tops of their heads.

It was a warm day for Connie and Clive at Captiva.

It was a bright day in Iowa with the snow still clinging to the ground and the nest at Decorah North.

It is chucking down rain in Port Lincoln, South Australia.

The rain appears to have stopped or slowed down at Port Lincoln.

Getting stronger on those legs, and look at how much those tail feathers have grown. 959 people watching. Fish fairies can be lucrative in the sense that any funds generated go directly back into the project which is fantastic – new platforms, satellite trackers, and fish!

At Orange, chat mentioned that a juvenile was seen flying at 08:32:51 to the MW (I haven’t got a clue what that refers to).

Diamond watching from the scrape.

Cilla made a video with music of a juvenile chasing Diamond at the tower. Oh, how grand.

Rohan Geddes got some shots of our White-bellied Sea Eagle juvie yesterday. Nice flying.

The two osplets at Osprey House really go after the fish when Dad arrives. It is a wonder he has any talons left.

Raising condors to save the species.

Looking at this lovely Condor baby! A little bit bigger than Hope but doing the same thing – following Mamma and copying her.

Ospreys in Spain in the winter. The Biosphere at Urdaibai.

Golden Eagle believed to have come to harm — another beaten grouse hunting estate. It is time this stopped. Can a bill – the Wildlife Management and Muirburn Bill – be passed in Scotland and not be watered down so that the culprits continue to get by with this senseless killing? Or will the bill get passed, and then the penalties for continuing to kill the birds be so small that it is laughable, and the gamekeepers will continue to stomp on chicks and shoot these beautiful adult raptors? Despicable. While leaf blowers get my friend ‘R’ really worked up, the stomping of chicks in a ground nest and the unnecessary shooting of raptors or the mass killing of ducks and geese at ponds makes my blood boil.

Just look at that beautiful eagle.

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That missing Golden Eagle was discovered to be from a very important estate in Scotland.

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Sharon Dunne brings us news from the Royal Albatross Colony.

Looking for some new nature books? Mark Avery just published Stephen Moss’s list for 2023. Have a look. You might find something interesting. Many of the books that I love have been recommended by Avery. This is my first time to see Moss’s list.

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These are the 47 books and their reviews of Avery during 2023. The Meaning of Geese continues to be one of my all-time favourite reads of this year, alongside The Comfort of Crows.

Pink-footed geese are part of the flocks that Nick Acheson so desperately wants to see in Norfolk. And just look at this:

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How many of you have that ‘bucket list’? Or do you have a Copy of 1000 places to visit before you die? I have only two events on my bucket list – to see the ospreys fly over Cuba near Manzanillo in the mountains during migration and to travel to Norfolk and see the geese before the climate changes so much. They stop spending the winter in the UK. Perhaps next year for both!

Thank you so very much for being with me today. Take care. Look forward to having you with me again soon.

I wish to thank the following for their notes, articles, photographs, videos, and streaming cams that helped me to write my blog today: ‘H’, Tufts Now, Carol Martucci Smith, SK Hideaways, PIX Cams, NEFL-AEF, FORE, KNF-E3, Superbeaks, Window to Wildlife, Raptor Resource Project, PLO, Charles Sturt Falcon Cam, Cilla Kinross, Osprey House, USFWS, Tim Huntington, Alan Petrie, Geemeff, Sharon Dunne, Rohan Geddes, Carol Shores Rifkin, Mark Avery, and Jake Fiennes.

Eagles are busy…Sunday in Bird World

26 November 2023

Good Morning Everyone,

I hope that you had a chance to get out for some time and enjoy yourself. Breathe in the fresh air and listen to some birds! It was nippy in Winnipeg. No snow but a crisp wind. So, keeping the vow to continue ‘moving’, I headed off to Assiniboine Park to the recently opened Leaf.

But before we get to the Leaf, awhile ago, I mentioned leaf blowers. My friend ‘R’ explained to me – the choir – how much he dislikes them. ‘R’, you are not alone! As the girls and I neared the end of The Comfort of Crows, Renkl’s chapter ‘How to Rake Leaves On a Windy Day’, reminded me of that conversation with R. She says, “Leaf blowers are like giant whining insects that have moved into your skull. They are swarming behind your eyes, drilling down Ito your teeth. Leaf blowers have ruined autumn with their Insistent drone and their noxious fumes, and they are everywhere. You may believe it is futile to resist then, but you can resist them. In almost every situation where something is loud, obnoxious, and seemingly ubiquitous, resistance is an option. Head to the toolshed in your backyard and fiddle with the rusty padlock until it finally yields. Reach into the corner where you keep the shovel and the posthole digger and the pruning shears. From that jumble of wonderful tools requiring no gasoline, pull out a rake…Leave the leaves lie everywhere it is possible to let the leaves lie. You aren’t trying for clean lines; you are trying only to pacify the angry neighbour who complained because some of your leaves blew into their yard. Leave the leaves in the flower beds. Leave them close to the house…When the birds return in springtime, these insects will be a feast for their nestlings. Whatever it might feel like on a damp November day, remind yourself that spring is coming.” She continues, “The leaves you let sit today will colder and rot through the winter, generating their own heat and protecting large trees and small creatures alike. Think of your desultory raking as a way to feed the trees, as an investment in an urban forest. If your neighbour complains again, tell them that you are feeding their trees.”…”Before you go inside, take a leaf into your head. Put it on your desk or next to your bed. Keep it nearby, through whatever troubles the long winter brings. It will help you remember that nothing is truly over. It will help you remember what the wind always teaches us in autumn: that just because you can’t see something doesn’t mean it isn’t there”. (241-43)

Moving to another Leaf.

So, today we are going to start off with something different. I am going to take you for a walk around The Leaf. It is at our zoo!

This is the Parks Department description of the four areas inside the glass building with some commentary running through by yours truly.

Hartley and Heather Richardson Tropical Biome

Visitors become immersed in the warmth and vibrancy of the Hartley and Heather Richardson Tropical Biome, where exotic plants and a balmy environment creates an oasis, particularly during the winter months. This rainforest-like paradise is brimming with tropical plants, bold textures and lush green colours. The largest of The Leaf’s planted spaces; it is home to Canada’s tallest indoor waterfall, a peaceful koi pond, and lush plant material from tropical regions of the world.

It was hot! Thank goodness the reception area recommended that everyone remove their heavy winter coats, hats, scarves, and gloves! People were happy, enjoying themselves. Looking at wonderful or sitting in quiet contemplation.

There was a time when everyone seemed to have a Prayer Plant in their collection of house plants.

Some of the very best Cacao I have ever tasted comes from the island of Grenada where my son lives. Deep, rich, and earthy chocolate.

The Chinese Hat Plant.

The Koi seem to have a wondrous pond.

Mediterranean Biome

The Mediterranean Biome is home to plants from regions known for their superb fruits, fine wines and abundant crops. Visitors are surrounded by plant life from climatic zones characterized by moist, cool winters and hot, dry summers including Greece and Italy, as well as South Africa, South West Australia, Central Chile and California. This biome hosts a memorable mosaic of colour, texture and fragrance that reaches its peak during the winter months. A welcoming seating area invites visitors to relax and enjoy the sights and smells of these fascinating plants. 

This area turned out to be my favourite because it was cooler than the Tropical area and also because they had the plants identified more clearly. As you enter, there was a long area (see below) of the herbs that grew so well in my garden this past summer – thyme, rosemary, mint.

What a gorgeous hibiscus this was. The one I have in the house – that goes in and out during the seasons – is pink. You can collect the flowers and make a very nice Hibiscus syrup or I have often added them to cakes – tiny chopped up bits of Hibiscus.

There are two other areas. One is a place for special floral displays and the other is the butterfly garden.

No one saw a single butterfly in the Butterly Garden. There are rumours that they flew out of the building by accident in the early fall. Perhaps, the call of migration was powerful.

The flower area was small but pretty. Would love to see it lit up at night!

It was a very nice afternoon.

We continue to wait to hear if little Greyish is available. We are approved for adoption but…the girls have slept most of the day. I caught Hope licking her incision. That is bad but, there is no way that she will wear a cone and unlike her Mamma, Calico, she will not let me get near enough to put antiseptic cream on the incision and olive oil. The trip to the vet caused her to go back weeks in terms of socialisation. It really did scare the wits out of her. Next time, when she needs her booster shots (in 3 weeks), the mobile vet will come to the house. The need for some cream on that tummy might mean that I have to toss the blanket on her and grab…I try not to do that because it is also stressful but, there is no way she is going to get an infection!!!!!!!!!

M15 got to see the first egg for him and F23. Today, he was caught bringing in a huge stick. He is going to make sure these babies do not fall out of that nest!

I know that each and every one of you is thrilled that M15 is going to get a chance to be a Dad again.

Pa Berry and Missey are working hard on their nest. Is it possible they could be next?

Gabby and V3 seem to have lined the entire nest with Spanish Moss. Just look at it. Think comfy. Now…let’s talk eggs.

There is good news coming from ND-LEEF. Lovely to see both Dad and the new female at the nest!

Looking for treats at Eagle Country…

Happy to see some stick moving at the nest of Jackie and Shadow at Big Bear on Saturday. Always good to see one or both at the nest.

Good night, Anna, and your two precious eggs at Kisatchie National Forest E-3.

Good night, Connie, at Captiva.

Good night, Muhlady. Just think. We are 12 days away from hatch!

At the NCTC nest of Bella and Smitty, Smitty has not been seen on the nest for 66 days – since 21 September. Feeling so sad for Bella. This nest has attracted many intruders with physical injuries over the past few years.

The Hancock Wildlife Foundation held its eagle count and the total was 1066 Bald Eagles. Wow.

Just look at the geese in New Jersey near the Barnegat Light Osprey nest! Oh, goodness. I would love to be there to listen to all their honking – or just to see them. I miss all the migrants once they leave Canada for their warmer winter homes.

Kestrels renewing their pair bonds in Germany.

The water at Port Lincoln looks quite calm. Mum and chicks are waiting for fish! Sometimes it seems that the life of a raptor is simply that – a life of waiting. Waiting for eggs to be laid, incubation, waiting for fish deliveries…waiting for it all to begin again.

The Fish Fairy arrives and saves the day with three fish. We get to see Giliath self feeding! They are growing up fast. Remember 8 December (that is Australian calendar/time) will be ringing, weighing, and putting on trackers. #2 will get its name.

Heidi Mc caught the fledgling/juvenile of Diamond and Xavier and its aborted landing in the scrape yesterday for us in video.

Falco, the Eurasian owl who escaped from the Central Park Zoo nine months ago, has made The Guardian in a story questioning whether or not the owl can survive in the Big Apple.

Freedom-has-been-a-hoot-but-can-Flaco-the-owl-survive-New-York-City-New-York-The-GuardianDownload

Sadly, Glaslyn has lost one of its oldest female Ospreys. Blue 8C was the daughter of Ochre 11 (98), the last chick from the original male of the translocation project. Blue 8C fledged from Rutland at 53 days on the 8th of July 2014. She was almost ten years old when Jean-Marie Dupart found her injured, and when he returned to the beach area where she was to retrieve her, she had died. Condolences. She knew her route well between the UK and Senegal…so sad to hear of her passing.

One lucky falcon. So many injuries, rescues, and will be free again soon. Magnificent.

The crimes against raptors in the UK are largely linked to the large land estates associated with shooting parties. Will a younger generation turn on this medieval tradition amongst the aristocratic classes?

Channel-4-News-reports-two-thirds-of-raptor-persecution-crimes-in-2022-linked-to-shooting-estates-–-Download

A fun bird fact from ‘J’ today:

Roger Tory Peterson’s first painting was of a Blue Jay! And it was his favourite bird.
His seventh grade teacher brought a portfolio of The Birds of New York State by bird painter Louis Agassiz Fuertes. Each kid was given a small box of water colors and a color plate to copy. Peterson got the Blue Jay.

Thank you so much for being with me today. Please take care of yourself. Enjoy your Sunday — or whatever day it feels like. When you are retired, the days roll into one another! See you soon.

Thank you to the following for the comments, notes, videos, articles, screen captures, and posts that helped me to write my blog this morning: “J”, Margaret Renkl and her book, The Comfort of Crows, The Leaf, Janet Gray, Nancy Babineau, Berry College Eagle Cam, NEFL-AEF, Philippe Josse, Eagle Country, FOBBV, KNF-E3, Window to Wildlife, Superbeaks, Hancock Wildlife Foundation, Wildlife Conservancy of NJ, Michael Raege, The Guardian, Mary Cheadle and Jean-marie Dupart, Robin Stockfelt, and Raptor Persecution UK.

M15 and F23 – their first egg together!…Saturday in Bird World

25 November 2022

Good Morning Everyone,

So it is Superbeaks, Captiva, KNF-E3, and SWFlorida. Now that M15 and F23 have their first egg it might be that there will be a flurry of egg laying. Let’s see!

It was one of those coolish days on the Canadian Prairies – I did not venture much beyond the feeders and doing some much needed clean up around the woodbox and deck. The usual suspects showed up at the feeders including Dyson who spent much time munching away at Black Oil Seed.

It was so good to see Dyson.

One of Dyson’s kits came to the table feeder earlier. So cute.

It is always nice to see Junior. He will probably stay for the entire winter.

The girls are doing fine. Hope has started eating. She was always ravenous so to see her not excited about food bothered me. That said, she had to be eating as I saw her at the litter box so, the assumption is she ate when I was not looking, probably when it was dark. Always wondered what living in a dark place might do to her and Calico…at any rate, she had some White Fish just like the osplets and some roast chicken and all is right with the world. Must admit I shed a couple of tears of joy.

Sleepy head Hope.

And, oh. Do I see the reason that Hope was not tearing up the food dish?

The girls have applied to adopt a little brother. He was the only boy in a litter of seven! He was fostered in a home with children, older cats, and a dog. Fingers crossed. He is a cutie, and there could be many applications for him! (It took a while for us to decide, as Greyish will be the 4th and last addition to the brood. There are so many kittens needing homes….). Will keep you posted!

Now for some nests…

Many are spending their Friday night staring at the female, F23, on the SW Florida Bald Eagle nest.

There it is! I was not going to make the mistake of announcing an egg without seeing it!

M15 sees the egg.

I don’t know about you, but I teared up. After losing Harriet and raising 21 and 22 from the time they were a month old alone – a single dad – it is glorious to see that M15 will get to be a dad again with a new mate. Bravo. F23 is one lucky lady.

Many of the tributes to Samson came in after I posted my Friday blog. He was an amazing eagle and it is nice to remember him, even a day late.

We do know that some eagles just leave the nest without explanation. I often think of Ma Berry. She flew away from the nest with Pa and was seen with her distinctive leg at a lake in Alabama. My old falconer friend tells me all the time that the raptors are much more intelligent and communicate in ways that are ‘higher’ than humans. She says we ‘lost that ability’ – like telepathy. Some believe that Samson is still alive. Some stay until their chicks are old enough to be cared for by a single parent before they fly away. Harriet would have stayed if she could but many understand she waited, knowing she was sick, and left when she knew M15 could keep those kids of theirs alive – and he did. We will never know but if Samson is out there, he had his reasons for leaving. Gabby is moving on with V3.