Tag Archives: Geemeff

Fish, Darvic rings, and death…Late Saturday in Bird World

4 July 2026

Greetings Everyone,

When I was a child, there was always a family picnic at the park or at my great-grandmother’s house to mark the 4th of July. They were all immigrants from Chur, Switzerland. The day meant a lot to them. The family had prospered and there was and still is family living in the farm and vinegard called ‘Hinterwald’ (Behind the Woods) outside of Chur. It was a wonderful day full of delicious summer food – fresh out of the various gardens – and always homemade ice cream. For those who are celebrating today, I hope that you had a fantastic time with loved ones and friends.

As a child, I loved the fireworks. Today, I know better and am a strong advocate for those funds to go to social programmes that help people, rather than money going up in smoke. I also wish that all the funds that will go into fireworks in the Big Bear Valley area and the nest of Shadow and Jackie had gone into the fund to purchase MoonCamp to safeguard this area for the eagles and all wildlife. Some States are outlawing fireworks altogether. I wish every State would take that enlightened stance.

SK Hideaways has a video of Sandy and Luna flying over this beautiful area – that does not need condos! https://youtu.be/PJYYeCH6kQM?

It was hot today. We had hoped that Toby would enjoy his sprinkler pad. Right now he is curious but a little frightened. We are not pushing him.

There is a heat dome over many parts of North America this weekend endangering the lives of the most vulnerable of the osplets on the nests.

At the nest of Big Red and Arthur, the fledglings are coming to the nest for prey deliveries by Arthur. https://youtu.be/ajyUBPXgxgs?

P1 and P3 are hanging out together on Bradley! Thanks Karel and BOGette. https://youtu.be/LCdQQA_Gv7Y?

A good news story for a change – from Geemeff. thank you.

https://www.quantico.marines.mil/News/Article/4530247/operation-homeward-bound-chesty-the-osprey-reunited-with-mother

One of the big news stories in Bird World is that Lady and Dad have their first egg at the White-bellied Sea Eagles nest in the Olympic Forest in Sydney, Australia. SK Hideaways celebrates this wonderful moment. https://youtu.be/7eusfpBt7ZY?

CJ7 feeds her four daughters at the Carey Secret Garden Osprey nest in Poole Harbour. Imagine – four girls. All requiring much more food to develop than four boys.

At the second osprey nest at Poole, the chicks were deemed to be all male.

Ringing also took place across the UK. The two chicks in the Usk Valley were also ringed.

Normal service has resumed on the Usk Valley nest. Here are some images of our osprey family taken from the live cameras this afternoon: Syfaddan, Clogwyn and their two chicks, Blue 0U0 and Blue 0U1, new rings clearly visible.

This morning (Saturday 4 July) the two UVO osprey chicks were ringed by a skilled team of experienced climbers and licensed ringers.

Chick 1, who is 37 day old, was ringed on its left leg with a BTO metal ring with unique no. 1087337 and on the right leg with a ‘Darvic’ ring, blue with white lettering with unique inscription W0U0.

Chick 2 who is 34 days old, was ringed on the left leg with a BTO metal ring with unique no. 1087338 and on the right leg with a ‘Darvic’ ring, blue with white lettering with unique inscription 0U1.

Young ospreys are ringed well before they fledge the nest to leave on their first migration to Africa. This allows for monitoring of the birds as they grow up, go on their migration journeys, return to the UK as two-year-olds and hopefully, pair up to breed successfully later in life. It will also contribute to the overall national monitoring of the species as they make their return to Britain and more recently Wales.

Take a look to see if you can spot their new rings on the live cameras: https://www.uskvalleyospreys.org/live-video-from-nest-both

UVO would like to thank all those involved with approvals in advance of, the support team during, and those on the ground (and up the tree!) directly contributing to the ringing operation.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Saturday 4th July 2026

Today was not nearly as wet as forecast, most of the day was dry with light winds, and Louis took advantage of that, delivering seven fish to Dorcha, raising the Nest Two tally to two hundred and twenty seven. It was a different situation over on Nest One – Garry LV0 was around, bringing moss and taking over when Aurora 536 flew off for a break, but didn’t bring any fish. An intruder was around, not seen on camera, perhaps that had an effect, or perhaps he delivered an early fish during the nest cam down time of approximately 6 hours from 03.15 to 09.10. His tally remains at one hundred and forty nine. Aurora didn’t go hungry though, as she had stashed a large piece of the previous evening’s third fish, and polished that off today. She continues to spend her nights on the nest covering the unviable egg. Tonight’s forecast is for light rain overnight with a low of 12°C, changing to heavy rain tomorrow with a high of 16°C.   

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/O7GV0nWmHvs N2 Early breakfast arrives, it won’t last long 05.27.05https://youtu.be/rVSW7cgdnzw N2 Louis brings a second trout much larger than the first 08.56.09https://youtu.be/IJiOqlpiedE  N2 Louis has a well filled crop when he delivers fish three 

10.01.30https://youtu.be/k6X-v-fhieM N2 Dorcha takes fish four and tells Louis to leave 16.03.00https://youtu.be/s45SuhCekX0 N2 Chick downs the tail – tiny fish five lasted 4 minutes 19.32.31https://youtu.be/NImFgvpp-1c N2 Dark chick downs the tail, number six lasted 2.5 minutes 21.14.59https://youtu.be/JoelSju3lTo N2 Goldie downs the tail, number seven lasted only 2 mins 45 secs! 21.39.17

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

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Chick number 2 died of starvation at the Chesapeake nest today.

Even though I continue to worry, Little Dewey did well today. Mum did not wait for Dad to show up – these females are really becoming titans! ‘PB’ gives us the low down of all the deliveries to our not so little Dewey.

Oyster Bay: They need food. I hope for three but…’PB’ comments on deliveries: “Oyster Bay 7/4/26….no fish all morning, then mom 12:42 finally delivered a large fish (Menhaden ?) #1 & #2 feeding. #3 could not get in there. Then Dad delivers a whole fish 12:59 and #3 rushes over to dad for food. Dad looked unsure what to do, he wanted to feed and tries one bite to #3. Unfortunately, #2 saw opportunity to get food from Dad and moves in. Dad only fed #2. #3 on Dads right was begging but no bites. Dad left with remaining fish 1:06. #2 gets a couple of scraps from mom. #1 Huge crop. Hope they can get more fish for #3.” And then a final great update from ‘PB’: “Great update to share: dad partial fish 13:37 & mom 13:58 fish, #3 ate well! “

Lamoine State Park: Late fish delivery by the female but the third hatch had nothing to eat. This is another sad nest that needs food. I even wondered if the adults had abandoned the nest.

Sandy Hook: Good deliveries.

Osoyoos: The only surviving osplet of the three has a huge crop.

Went back and caught another fish delivery from Dad at Osoyoos.

Santiam Canyon: Doing well with the fish deliveries.

Cowlitz PUD: Little crops.

OBX: Two lovely feathered osplets who need names. Go to the link at the bottom of the image.

Salmon Idaho: Lots of fish appear to have come in on Saturday.

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho: The two feathered chicks are doing well. Dad delivered a fish – their expressions really perked up when they knew a meal was coming!

Charlo, Montana: Chloe feeding C22.

Upper Newport Bay: Ripple and Robinson both had fish.

Boulder County: The trio look good!

Loch Doon: All is good. Heavy rain starts later and Angel returns to the nest to try and cover her chicks – who are large!

Smallwood: Looking good with lots of helicoptering by the osplets. We are close to fledge.

Rutland Manton Bay: Fledge window.

Minneapolis Landscape: Two chicks appear to be doing rather well. I had my doubts initially, but all is looking good.

Blackbush: Number 1 continues to peck on 4 – trying to deny food and injuring that already damaged head. This is one tough little 4 that so many are cheering on but this nest is going to need lots of fish if the dominance power moves by the big siblings on that tiny little one are to stop.

Ah, that’s it for me. Just a quick run-through. Son is coming over tomorrow to help me with a camera for outside – we have gone through two or three. None are perfect, and most require some kind of monthly subscription, which I am trying to avoid. What this means is that I am going to enjoy the day and not look at nests. I will see you on Monday. Take care, everyone.

Thank you so much to Geemeff, to all those who created videos, including SK Hideaways, Karel, and BOGette, to those who posted information on FB, and to PB for keeping me up to date on some nests I didn’t get a chance to check. Once again, thank you to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to watch these incredible birds.

Happiness…late, late Friday in Bird World

19 June 2026

Hello Everyone,

I should say that for some of you it will be good night and for others, good morning. My intention had been to take a break, but then something ‘magical and miraculous’ happened. After 29.5 hours without food, the female at the Dewey Beach nest flew off. The male has not been seen for a day and a half and I hope that no harm has come to him but that is a long time to be away. Perhaps he was unable to find food. I remember many being gone for several days especially if there had been a storm. Duke at Barneghat Light was one of those about three years ago. Or was it two?

At any rate around 1600 the female, utterly starving herself, flew off the nest. She returned with what I would call a large minnow. Baby Dewey was ravenous. Mum didn’t start there – she kept fishing. The last count I had was either 5 or 6 fish being delivered, once she flew in with two!

Heidi calls it at six.

A bird nest at Dewey Beach with an adult bird feeding its chick. The adult has a fish in its beak, while the chick stands nearby, appearing eager for food.
A close-up view of an osprey chick in a nest, with an adult osprey partially visible, on a sunny day by the water. In the background, a glimpse of a coastal area with buildings is visible.

Another female, Jill, at Achieva, has been fishing to feed her two osplets and that kept Little and Big alive to fledge. The male is being the way the male has always been – Jack is not reliable. I do not know why and it could honestly not be his fault. Gulls and eagles as well as other ospreys steal fish. He is not a youngster, etc.

Post detailing the capture of five spadefish by ospreys, with timestamps and observations about their feeding behavior.
Two ospreys standing on a nest made of sticks, with one osprey holding a fish in its claws.

The news is not so good for the female that incubated her eggs and hatched three chicks all on her own. The male has shown up but too little, too late. Let’s hope that Mum and one chick can survive. Have a read:

A Facebook post from Twin Cities Metro Osprey Watch discussing the challenges faced by a female osprey raising her chicks after mating with a polygynous male, detailing the delivery of fish and the current survival status of the chicks.
A split image showing two bird nests. On the left, an osprey is standing over its chicks, holding nesting material against a blue sky. On the right, another osprey is perched on a nest with young chicks, set against a neutral background.

The first fledge for Irv and Stella at the US Steel nest. It was Sid! And, yes, he did return!

At Cornell, fledgling P1 made it back to the nest. Three gorgeous peachy breasts!!!!!

Two young red-tailed hawks nesting on a railing, with greenery and a street visible in the background.

At the Lesser Spotted Eagle nest of Milda and Madis, the two little eaglets seem to be doing alright. Remember – there could be obligate siblicide at this nest. That said, Madis is bringing in quite a bit of prey.

A majestic eagle standing over its fluffy chick in a natural nest, surrounded by greenery and trees.
A majestic bird of prey stands over its nest, which contains a small, fluffy chick. The nest is made of twigs and surrounded by greenery in a forested setting.

Iris is such a good Mum. She is so delicate feeding the baby. But she looks tired to me and thin – an I imagining this? I hope so. I think I am so used to her fishing for. herself and eating huge fish. Now she is focused on baby.

Close-up of an osprey on its nest, looking down at the ground among twigs and leaves.
An adult osprey interacts with a chick in a nest filled with twigs and dried grass.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Friday 19th June 2026

Today was all about fish! Despite the wet and windy conditions, magnificent fisherbird Louis just kept delivering fish, eight in all, this season’s daily total record. With the first arriving at 04.12 and the last arriving at 23.04, Louis certainly put in quite a long shift. The Nest Two total now stands at one hundred and sixty one, with one hundred and fifty nine brought by Louis and two by Dorcha. By contrast, Garry LV0 brought only one fish for Aurora, taking the Nest One tally to one hundred and twenty three. However, there are no chicks to feed, and with the nest cam going down for approximately four hours every morning, it’s neither possible to say what his actual total is, nor fair to compare him to Louis. Despite the constant supply of fish and bulging crops, the two chicks on Nest Two had a really vicious fight, started unwisely by one who then suffered swift retaliation, being pecked to the point that the other had feathers in its beak. Dorcha took no notice but did stop the fight when she sat on them. They will just have to work it out – hopefully Louis will keep bringing a constant supply of fish and the chicks will grow out of this stage soon. The weather was much wetter and windier than the light rain showers and gentle breezes forecast for today, and while more rain and wind is expected overnight and tomorrow with a low of 11°C and a high of 17°C, there should be sunny intervals tomorrow.

Today’s videos

https://youtu.be/vDIEbm8kKt4 N2 Early breakfast fish number one 04.12.16

https://youtu.be/0z5bnTmcWRk N2 Fish number two 08.09.56

https://youtu.be/Ff49SMJD_HQ N2 Fish number three 08.57.07

https://youtu.be/YZZMHmye6Tg N1 Fish number one and only 10.01.42

https://youtu.be/UMBHxaaZ3kc N2 Vicious chick fight, one starts, the other finishes 10.24.13

https://youtu.be/ypWDRcs6WYk N2 Fish number four 11.34.04

https://youtu.be/Eyx45dhh514 N2 Fish number five 15.09.46

https://youtu.be/58l8kPe1d_k N2 Fish number six 21.04.04

https://youtu.be/TPfTPsQ43Vc N2 Fish number seven 21.18.24

https://youtu.be/QUAHpWFWw8k N2 Fish number eight! 23.04.03

Blast from the past, this day in 2020:

The legendary queen of the mountain gave us an unforgettable moment on this day in 2020: Aila has a brain fade and decides to move an awkwardly shaped stick from one side of the nest to the other, apparently oblivious to the presence of her chicks. They duck this way and that trying to keep out of her destructive path, and when Aila finally leaves the nest, one of them delivers a parting shot with perfect emphasis.

Everyone’s invited to 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

I don’t like to end with saddness but tonight I am. Forsythe. Opal and Oscar have had two of their three chicks die from starvation. There is one adorable feathered chick on the nest. From my vantage point, the adults have abandoned this chick and will let it die on the nest. No one is there with it tonight and food has not come. Every once in awhile you hear a little cheep, cheep – calling for fish. It breaks your heart and this is what the ospreys are up against. So much better if there are no eggs or if the eggs do not hatch. No food for them. In two years, no food for the returnees even if they survived. The entire eco system is dead or dying.

A close-up view of a bird's nest made of twigs, with two chicks resting inside, situated on a platform above a grassy landscape and a small water body, captured by a surveillance camera.
A dimly lit camera view of a bird's nest made of twigs and branches, positioned on a wooden platform in an open field, with a pole-mounted camera in the background.

Please take care. I am going to take a break and I will be back with you on Monday. Please feel free to send me any news. I will definitely begin to put my blog together late Sunday after my friend Ruth goes home – I am looking forward to having a friend over. The Girls and Toby have a bit of a surprise for Don.

Thank you to Geemeff for her daily summary and videos, to Heidi and PB for their reports on fish and nests, and to all those who post on FB and to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to watch the beauty and the horror of the life events of our bird families.

Fledge watch at Cornell…late Wednesday in Bird World

17 June 2026

I am feeling very nostalgic. The very first time I visited Japan was in 1988. It was August. My friend, Ikuhiko, introduced me to the culture, the temples, the gardens, the pickles, and the food in a much condensed two-week period. It was the first of so many trips – most of which centred on Kyoto.

Tuesday night, I watched a gardening show from the UK, Monty Don’s Japanese Gardens on YouTube, that looked at Japanese gardens in both spring and fall. It is a strange thing, but I can close my eyes and walk from the JR Station to the little apartment where I stayed a few blocks from the Kamo River and the old area of Kyoto. The place that I found tranquillity, however, was in Ohara, a the Sanzen-in temple on the mountain. It is a very old site, sacred to the Tendai sect, and famous for its gardens. To get there, I had to take the #11 bus, if I recall correctly. At the beginning of the trek were two shops – one with delicious food and the other with textiles created in various techniques using Indigo. They seemed to specialise in Shibori. Away from the road and up the mountain, artists were drawing and painting at the edge of a field. It was the amazing moss gardens at the top that drew me there. I do not have the proper words for how peaceful it was away from the hussle and bussle of Kyoto.

Ironically, one of the other programmes on the telly that Don enjoys, Death in Paradise, is set in Deshaies, Guadeloupe. There are always one or more images we recognise, including Katherine’s restaurant, which is on the beach in the main town.

Wonderful memories.

Tuesday was a very beautiful day. There was a breeze, and the temperature remained mild. No rain, no hail, and dinner was on the deck with the birds singing their little hearts out. Beautiful. Oh, being outside just brightens one’s soul!

Wednesday is busy. We have Tolu; Toby will stay with Ann while Don goes to his psychiatrist’s appointment; and then there is the first day of our South Osborne Farmers’ Market. Think yummy Chinese dumplings and fresh local honey! So this report is shorter than normal.

The weather has been more than windy in Hellgate Canyon. Clark had trouble bringing in a minnow-sized fish. I became concerned for the little one. He stayed with Iris and his baby and finally came in with a good-sized fish around 1020. Relief

Two ospreys resting in their nest at night, with a dimly lit parking lot in the background.
An osprey standing on a nest made of twigs and branches, overlooking a parking lot in the background.
An adult osprey is feeding a young chick in a nest, surrounded by twigs and leaves.
Osprey feeding a chick in its nest, surrounded by twigs and dry leaves.

It is still very windy at Hellgate Canyon. Clark brought in another fish after 1500 (he might well have brought in more earlier).

An osprey nest with two ospreys, one perched and one standing, surrounded by a parking area and greenery in the background.

Iris feeds the baby while Clark keeps guard. Clark is so protective of his family!

Two ospreys perched on a nest made of sticks, with a parking lot and green areas visible in the background.
Close-up view of an osprey nest with a chick and surrounding twigs, leaves, and nest materials.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Wednesday 17th June 2026

Today was calm and routine, no upsets, not much in the way of chick aggression, and no intruders. Louis brought three fish for his family, taking the Nest Two tally to one hundred and fifty one, and Garry LV0 brought one fish for Aurora 536 taking the Nest One tally to one hundred and twenty one. It rained on and off today and rain will continue through the night with light winds and a low of 12°C, continuing tomorrow with light rain, a gentle breeze and a high of 17°C. 

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/AXFpJ8nfXoU N2 Louis brings his leftovers for breakfast 03.54.38https://youtu.be/Wet3grKylU8 N2 Dorcha’s dulcet tones summon a second fish 06.34.51https://youtu.be/C1actFs_pO8 N2 Louis’ third fish is a magnificent and lively big trout 12.49.59https://youtu.be/rnC3K-WuNTM N

1 Garry remains while Aurora flies off with her fish 17.17.46

Bonus watch – Classic Ospreys series, special moments over the years preserved and set to classical music, quite a few involve sticks!

https://www.youtube.com/@GeemeffGeemeff/playlists

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

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Tuesday 16th June 2026

The chicks threw a strop and fought each other, Dorcha took no notice, Louis got his toe nibbled, Aurora got a fish and Garry didn’t spend much time on the nest. He only brought one fish for Aurora, on camera anyway, he almost certainly is bringing fish during the approximately four hours daily cam down time, and his tally now stands at one hundred and twenty. Louis brought four fish for Dorcha and the Nest Two tally rises to one hundred and forty eight. The chicks fought with the eldest coming out on top but then looked ridiculous attacking the nest itself! The weather forecast for the Inver Mallie area is light rain and winds overnight with a low of 13°C, continuing tomorrow with light rain showers, a gentle breeze and scattered sunshine with a high of 17°C.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/boMblyAoBC4 N2 Louis’ first delivery is a large flapping fish 04.47.56https://youtu.be/4YvuTEwPFYs N2 Louis’ second fish is snack-sized 09.41.49 https://youtu.be/mCbfkDybVic N2 Older chick throws a strop, batters the younger then the nest! 11.33.30https://youtu.be/UIH0JbgLebs N1 Both Garry and Aurora leave when he brings a fish 15.48.25https://youtu.be/efCAsuesBwA N2 Is fish blood why C2 keeps nibbling Louis’ toe? 16.58.26https://youtu.be/WJY4sDQmPIE N2 Louis looks magnificent and well fed bringing a fourth fish 19.05.00

You’re invited to 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

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Fledge watchers are ready and signs will be going up on the Cornell Campus for Big Red and Arthur’s hawklets.

I love Big Red. She knows when her babies are about ready to fly, and she often chooses to feed them. She is an incredible RTH. The number of chicks she has fledged is unknown, as she has only been on camera with her mate, Ezra, since 2012. She hatched in 2003 and was probably raising babies in 2006. She glows when she has chicks. Positively glows.

Four red-tailed hawk chicks huddled together in a nest on a balcony, with a view of a tree-lined street and buildings in the background.

On the rails.

A red-tailed hawk perched on a nest near the edge of a building, overlooking a tree-lined street below.

This one decided to check out the camera! https://youtu.be/x3kee2NoBCc?

A close-up of a young red-tailed hawk perched on a railing, with a nest visible in the background and trees and a road below.

Big and Little fledged, and Jill, with some help from Jack, is still feeding these two at the Achieva nest. What a wonderful nest this turned out to be this year, thanks to Jill.

A post featuring ospreys Jack and Jill engaging in fishing activities, with Jill holding a headless spadefish and siblings fighting over the catch in their nest.

Big and Little waiting for Mum to deliver an evening meal. They ‘trust’ that she will being food back. What an incredible nest.

Two ospreys are perched in their nest, surrounded by greenery and a view of a residential area in the background.

Mum never disappoints. ‘PB’ thinks it could be a mackerel.

A bird holding a fish in its talons near a nest made of twigs and branches, set against a green background.

Hatch at Sandpoint!

An osprey sits in a nest with a visible egg, surrounded by twigs and branches, overlooking a parking lot with trees and buildings in the background.

Not quite sure what is going on with Bety and Bukachek this year. Will keep monitoring. Gosh, that nest is full of human debris.

A stork standing on a nest filled with twigs and grass, with a village and mountains in the background under a blue sky.

Baby being fed at Cowlitz.

An aerial view of an eagle sitting in its nest made of twigs and branches beside a road.

The trio at Dyfi are fantastic. Telyn and Idris are exceptional.

An adult osprey is perched on a nest surrounded by three young chicks. The nest is made of twigs and is situated in a green, grassy area.

We have a second hatch at Ilomantsin sääkset #2. It is rainy and wet, and I hate that when there are babies in the nest. They get cold and die – let’s hope for sunshine.

An osprey in a nest made of sticks and moss, feeding its chicks near a body of water.

Storks being banded: https://youtu.be/xI-AJgtA6Fc?

A person in a safety harness is interacting with young storks in a nest on top of a structure, with a scenic landscape in the background.
A person in a safety harness is working on a large stork nest on a rooftop, with several chicks visible in the nest. The background shows a lush green landscape and houses.

Boys being boys at San Jose City Hall. https://youtu.be/u0dIuFbxwBs?

It is really raining in Estonia at the nests of the Golden Eagle and Lesser Spotted Eagle. Both Lesser Spotted chicks have eaten, with the oldest having more – a rat that came in later. Wish them better weather.

Some have been worried about Little Bob at Poole Harbour. He was in a food coma earlier and gets up and eats when he is hungry. Everything looks fine to me.

A bird nest containing three chicks and one adult bird, surrounded by twigs and greenery in a forested area.
An aerial view of an osprey nest, featuring several young chicks and one adult osprey, surrounded by twigs and greenery.

Family portrait at Rutland with swans. Chicks will be ringed soon.

A nest of osprey chicks surrounded by adult ospreys near a body of water, showcasing the birds in their natural habitat.
A group of ducklings resting in a nest made of twigs and branches by a body of water.

Smile. Little Dewey at Dewey Beach has had seven fish so far today.

An adult osprey stands in a nest with two chicks, surrounded by twigs and foliage, overlooking a waterway.

Thank you so much for being with us – there is so much happening, fledges, hatches, and sadly, what looks like pending deaths at some nests. Will try to catch everyone up on the latest tomorrow or Friday. I may take tomorrow off -. Need to enjoy some time with Don in the country! In the meantime, take care! See you soon.

Thank you to Geemeff for those two great reports on Loch Arkaig, PB for alerting me to some nest news, SK Hideaways for their wonderful videos. I am grateful to everyone who posted information and images on FB and to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to watch these incredible bird families. Thank you.

Late, late Monday edition of Bird World

15 June 2026

Hello Everyone,

It’s the end of the day and I have two great offerings for you.

We have SK Hideaways video of all of Clark’s fish deliveries the other day. My mailbox thought it was ‘Junk’ Mail – geez, what do they know!!!!!!! Ugh.

Clark Answers Iris’s Fish Calls ~ Chick #1 Gets Its First Meal ~ 2026 Jun 11

Hellgate Canyon Ospreys ~ Missoula, MT ~ Iris, Clark, Chick #1

Iris and Clark’s first chick hatched today, but Iris waited some 48 hours for Clark to bring fish. No one knows why he was delayed, but he certainly made up for it with 4 fish deliveries (as of this video). Once Iris refueled, she fed chick #1. Congratulations, Iris and Clark, and welcome to the world #1.

Video: https://youtu.be/Jkv-aKoTUBk

Courtesy CornellLab | Hellgate Osprey Cam | Montana Osprey

Nest cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qvYCbvbeN8

So sorry I missed it but I know that each of you won’t want to miss seeing Clark and all those fish again!!!!!!!!

Clark just keeps bringing those big fish in.

An adult osprey feeds a chick in a nest, with another chick visible nearby. The adult is holding a piece of fish with its beak while the chick eagerly looks up.

Louis delivered a late fish at Loch Arkaig. It is included in the daily summary.

Geemeff Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch ArkaigMonday 15th June 2026

There was the odd chick fight today but not much, and not too serious so perhaps as both begin to develop the oily look of the reptilian phase, and with Louis bringing plenty of fish, the aggression will taper off completely. It was an otherwise calm day – Garry LV0 delivered two fish taking the Nest One tally to one hundred and nineteen, and he and Aurora continue to incubate their unviable egg. Louis delivered five fish, the first arrived as this season’s earliest shortly after day cam came on, and the last arrived as this season’s latest, with night cam coming on as he landed.The chicks lined up squeaking and will go to bed with full crops. The Nest Two tally rises to one hundred and forty four. The weather today was dry and warm as forecast, but also as forecast, is set to change back to wet with a 70% chance of rain overnight and a low of 11°C, and light rain, light winds, and a high of 18°C tomorrow. Actually, change that 70% to 100% because at the time of filing this report (midnight) it’s started raining and both females are pearled with raindrops.

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/SICO1fO_G6U N2 Season’s earliest fish arrives, a feebly flapping trout 03.45.00https://youtu.be/tRcC-7CQYvs N2 Louis brings another lively trout 04.12.32https://youtu.be/1I4mu5_gtoA N1 Garry brings a large trout for Aurora 10.41.48https://youtu.be/ns1e7EHoVBM N2 Louis’ third fish is another frantically flapping trout 12.29.53https://youtu.be/05W6xEO7yfQ N2 Louis’ fourth fish is another whole trouthttps://youtu.be/g64K0qXZQEA N1 Aurora departs as soon as Garry brings fish two 19.11.41https://youtu.be/DyxghGADNlI

N2 Louis’ fifth fish arrives as night cam comes on, and is this season’s latest 23.10.26

You’re invited to 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

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Thanks so much for being with us! The rain and hail have stopped. The sun is out. Cats are fed along with Toby, and Don is fast asleep. I have a new bird book that I am going to start, but to my shock, it doesn’t contain anything about ospreys. What a disappointment. I was hoping it would be a gem so that it could be the book I donate to the final raffle for the Loch Arkaig group.

See you soon!

Thank you to SK Hideaways and Geemeff for their incredible work documenting the lives of our raptors through video and summaries.

Hatches and deaths…Late Monday in Bird World

14 June 2026

Hello Everyone,

Oh, what a day. We are chilly and it has rained heavily with hail! There was even thunder and Toby got to wear his thunder jacket. He did not react to the weather events – not once. He was calm and sleeping. So, thunder or anxiety jackets work for him.

I took videos. WP won’t let me attach them. Says they are private. Really? Missey was scared and her eyes got really big. The hail was not large but it continued to cover the deck and garden.

A fluffy cat sitting on a black table with a window in the background showing a rainy view.
A wooden patio table and chairs covered with hailstones on a rainy day, with a deck and greenery in the background.

Of course, no one believes me when I say this might be the new normal. Geez.

Sadly, the only remaining eaglet out of two has died at the White-tailed eagle nest in Scotland. Its body is being retrieved, and the camera will be down. They want to determine the COD. This is so sad. Each adult and chick is precious. They are being reintroduced to Scotland.

The White-tailed Eagle (also known as the sea eagle) was driven to extinction in the UK by 1918 due to human persecution and habitat loss. Thanks to landmark, multi-phase reintroduction programs that began in 1975, this apex predator has made a remarkable recovery and is now an established breeding species in Scotland.

The successful return of the White-tailed Eagle to Scotland occurred in three distinct phases involving the translocation of young eagles from Norway: 

  • Phase 1 (1975–1985): A partnership between the RSPB and Nature Conservancy Council began translocating Norwegian eaglets to the Isle of Rùm in the Inner Hebrides. This resulted in the first successful wild breeding pair on the Isle of Mull in 1983. 
  • Phase 2 (1993–1998): A second phase of releases took place in Wester Ross to expand the eagle’s geographic distribution across the west coast.
  • Phase 3 (2007–2012): A final set of birds was released on the east coast of Scotland in Fife, successfully establishing a population there. 

Current Status and Ecology

  • Population: There are currently around 150 to 300 breeding pairs established in Scotland. 
  • Habitat: They primarily inhabit coastal areas, sea lochs, and large inland bodies of water, which provide ample fish, waterbirds, and nesting cliffs/tall trees. 
  • Source for England: The Scottish population has been so successful that conservationists have utilized Scottish chicks to help repopulate the species in England (such as on the Isle of Wight).

Ongoing Challenges and Conflicts

While celebrated as a major conservation success, the reintroduction has caused friction with local communities. 

  • Livestock Predation: Farmers and crofters, particularly in Argyll and the West Highlands, have reported significant losses of vulnerable lambs to the eagles.
  • Management Plans: NatureScot has implemented Sea Eagle Management Schemes to help mitigate these impacts, including financial support and scaring tactics for farmers in designated areas. 

The Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation became actively involved in the reintroduction of the White-tail eagle. The following is taken from the RDWF Website:

PROJECT START: 2019
EAGLES RELEASED: 45
PAIRS BREEDING IN ENGLAND: 2
CHICKS FLEDGED FROM BREEDING PAIRS IN ENGLAND IN 2025: 3

White-tailed Eagles were once widespread along the whole of the South Coast of England, from Cornwall to Kent, before being driven to extinction by relentless persecution that began in the Middle Ages. The last pair bred on Culver Cliff on the Isle of Wight in 1780. Many parts of southern England remain highly suitable for the species, and following the reintroduction of White-tailed Eagles to Scotland – where there are now approximately 180 breeding pairs – we were granted licences by Natural England and Nature Scot to begin an English reintroduction in partnership with Forestry England, based on the Isle of Wight. A feasibility report was submitted to both Natural England and Nature Scot as part of the licence applications. The initial licence permitted the release of up to 60 young eagles on the Isle of Wight over a five year period, beginning in 2019. It is hoped that a small population of 6-8 breeding pairs will become established within 60km of the Isle of Wight, with birds spreading east and west along the South Coast. In 2026, Natural England issued a further license to release up to 20 White-tailed Eagles over 3 years from Exmoor National Park, to support the expanding population in Southern England.”

Every chick is precious. I hope to have news of the necroscopy for you when it is released. This could take weeks.

More great images from Seattle by Ping Shen of Harry, Sally, and their ‘Only Bob’. Thanks so much, Ping, for sharing these with us. Ping notes, “from the looks of things, an only child. Quite adorable, peeking at mom, and then sleeping at the foot of dad’s talon…”

An osprey perched on a nest made of sticks, looking down at a chick in the nest while surrounded by greenery.
Two ospreys sitting on their nest, with one looking directly at the camera while the other is feeding on a fish.

A beautiful sunset with Clark, Iris, and what might be another ‘Only Bob’. We are on pip/hatch watch for that second egg. We will see if Only has a sibling. I sure hope it is strong as Big Bob is a smart survivor – it has sure been beaten around by fish and nest materials.

Two ospreys are perched on a nest made of twigs and branches, with one parent bird standing close to a chick in the nest. The background shows a parking lot with trees and streetlights.

Make sure to check out the summary – what was it that frightened Louis?

Geemeff Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Sunday 14th June 2026

Daily summary Sunday 14th June 2026

Today was mainly about fish – there were many deliveries and both females rejected a fish at the first time of offering then accepted gladly when the male returned with it a bit later. Garry LV0 brought two fish on cam for Aurora 536 and his tally now stands at one hundred and seventeen, while Louis excelled with five deliveries, including his first flatfish this season, taking the Nest Two tally to one hundred and thirty nine. The chicks did a bit of fighting but nothing serious, and both decided mum was taking too long dishing up so tried a nibble at the fish she was holding – they’re healthy and developing as expected. There were some intruder alerts, no intruders seen on nest cam apart from a pair of Wood Pigeons who perched on Nest Two for a few moments, but local resident LizB saw two Golden Eagles flying near an Osprey around the time Dorcha was on high alert and shortly before Louis arrived with the flatfish. Later Garry and Aurora were also on alert, perhaps the pair of eagles were still in the area. Only one Eagle has ever been seen on a nest – a juvenile Golden Eagle who touched down for a nano second on Nest Two in April 2023 – but distant eagles have been caught on nest cam on a couple of occasions and Dorcha returned once with a blood injury from an eagle encounter. Both White-tailed Eagles and Golden Eagles share the forest with the Ospreys so perhaps it’s fortunate we haven’t seen them close up too often. The weather was much more settled today and the promised sunshine did materialise. It should continue dry overnight and partly cloudy with a low of 9°C, continuing with a high of 20°C tomorrow and no rain before midnight.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/w7zZRXu3pZ0 N2 Louis’ first fish is small and doesn’t last long 05.29.41

https://youtu.be/XYllXMRX7vA N2 A pair of Wood Pigeons pay a visit in Dorcha’s absence 08.27.59

https://youtu.be/BecPV01-e_E N2 Both chicks don’t wait for Dorcha and have a nibble at fish two 11.22.47 

https://youtu.be/MoOhTnm6YZo N2 Louis’ third fish is his first flatfish 14.39.15

https://youtu.be/grrb8lfBmMs N1 Aurora takes fish one from Garry and they both leave 14.14.51

https://youtu.be/Gmec-mfvgPI N2 Chick2 gets impatient and tries to take bits of fish four from C1’s beak 16.05.00

https://youtu.be/IK7rPRrh6-w N1 Aurora takes fish two the second time Garry brings it 19.13.05

https://youtu.be/VpjzqTKFTYc N2 Dorcha takes fish five the second time Louis brings it 20.36.58

Bonus guide to rapid growth of young Osprey chicks – our two are 13 and 11 days old today (thanks Dyfi)

https://www.dyfiospreyproject.com/blog/emyr-mwt/rapid-growth-phase-young-osprey-chicks


Everyone’s invited to 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

Buddy’s Mum catches D4 at Decorah fledging. https://youtu.be/pFLwncKkHH0?

‘L’ sent me the link to remind us that the Port Lincoln Osprey barge is now back online for the season !!!!!!!!!! https://www.youtube.com/live/47K1i7qCzaI?

‘L’ also sent me another link. A video of Wisdom’s grand chick getting banded. Oh, have a look!!!!!!!!! Isn’t it adorable?!!!!!! https://youtu.be/ZW8gHzCVBwU?

A young bird standing on sandy ground, surrounded by sparse vegetation and dried branches.
Close-up of a grand-chick with a red identification band on its leg, standing on sandy ground with some grass and strands of dried vegetation around.

I learned something. Maybe you will, too. ‘R’ sent an article on Aquaculture and shorelines. https://sercblog.si.edu/imani-black-sustainable-aquaculture-and-misconceptions/#more-13282

How big a fish can Ospreys bring in? And why can females catch bigger fish?

An osprey perched on a branch holds a mullet fish in its talons, with a lush green landscape in the background.

Is there an Osprey fishing contest going on right now? Louis brought in a whopper to Dorcha and the two surviving chicks.

A mature bird of prey stands over its nest, where several chicks are visible. The adult is holding a fish, preparing to feed the chicks in a natural setting surrounded by greenery.

Two osprey chicks have been observed at Loch Inish.

We wait to see how many chicks Aran fathered this year with his new mate. At least one! Next year, Friends of the Osprey will put a streaming camera on Aran’s nest. This is fabulous news.

It looks like donations to SaveMoonCamp, the land near Jackie and Shadow’s nest, have reached the 1/3 mark. They will need lots more funding by the deadline of 31 July 2026. It is unclear to me the precise amount of funds the group needs to get a loan to continue their fundraising. If you intend to help, please do it now! Go to SaveMoonCamp.org

The baby at Poole Harbour is just starting to get its feathers while the others are really being camouflaged now. CJ7 and Blue 022 making raising four osplets look effortless — and we know, for certain, that it isn’t.

An adult osprey stands near its nest, which contains three young chicks, surrounded by trees and foliage.
An adult osprey feeding its chicks in a nest made of branches, surrounded by a natural forest environment.

Syfadden and Clogwyn are doing fantastic with their two chicks in the Usk Valley in Wales.

A bird sitting in a nest made of twigs and branches, with a scenic landscape of fields and hills in the background.

Little Bob is trying to get under Elen at the Glaslyn Osprey nest she shares with her mate, Teifi. The two Big Bobs are napping.

An osprey standing over three fluffy chicks in a nest made of sticks, surrounded by a green landscape.

Closeby at the Friends of the Osprey Nest of Aeron Z2 and Blue 014, there are another three. They have been enjoying some trout today!

An osprey chick sitting in a nest made of sticks, overlooking a scenic landscape with hills and trees in the background.
A bird's nest made of twigs with two chicks and an adult bird on a hillside, overlooking a landscape with mountains and greenery in the background.

The single surviving osplet at Loch of the Lowes seems to be doing alright.

An osprey sitting on a nest made of twigs and branches, with greenery in the background.

This is incredibly compassionate. One of the major killers of chicks/storklets/hawklets/osplets etc in the nest is damp. These two good samaritans are blow drying the storklets so that they will hopefully survive the storms that have come to Europe.

Two people care for four stork chicks in a large nest on a rooftop, using a hairdryer to warm them.

Much better!

A stork stands on a large nest made of sticks and hay, with several baby storks resting inside. The background features a residential area with rooftops and solar panels.

What I wouldn’t give to see this at our osprey nests in North America. The kindness to stork families across Europe warms my heart every year and brings tears to my eyes.

No hatch as yet at Mlade Buky White Stork nest.

A stork standing in its nest, surrounded by sticks and grass, with a scenic view of houses and hills in the background.
Two storks nesting in a large bird's nest on a rooftop, overlooking a residential area with green hills in the background.

UK Parliament has recognized the persecution of raptors – should I add the word ‘finally’.

Parliamentary motion recognises ongoing illegal killing of raptors in Scotland – Raptor PersecutionDownload

Second hatch at The Lesser Spotted Eagle nest in Estonia. While this might be cause for celebration, Lesser Spotted Eagles practice obligate siblicide whereby the eldest chick always kills the second. There are rare exceptions.

The following comes from Animal Diversity Web:

A majestic eagle perched on a tree branch, showcasing its brown feathers and sharp beak against a clear blue sky.

Lesser spotted eagles live primarily in patchy woodland areas, meadows, fields, and natural grasslands, often in moist environments. Although forests are not used as primary habitat, they often build nests near forest edges. Lesser spotted eagles have been found in African dry mountain and grassland savanna habitats during their winter migration. Within these dry mountain habitats, their range typically extends to a maximum elevation of 2,200 meters.

Lesser spotted eagles generally hunt by walking along the ground. However, they typically nest and perch in the branches of forest trees. When nesting and perching, lesser spotted eagles often use branches closer to the ground rather than higher in the trees.

Adult lesser spotted eagles also are distinguished by their yellow eyes, whereas adult steppe eagles and greater spotted eagles have brown eyes. Juveniles of all three species have brown eyes. The head and wings of lesser spotted eagles are a lighter shade of brown compared to the rest of its body; in steppe eagles and greater spotted eagles, the entire body is a dark shade of brown. Lesser spotted eagles also have a small head and beak for an eagle. Like other eagles in the genus Aquila , lesser spotted eagles have a white V mark on their rump. Finally, differences in the shape of the wings cause lesser spotted eagles to appear to have a longer tail (96.6 to 123.75 cm) than other closely related species. Lesser spotted eagles have narrower wingspans (145 to 165 cm), whereas greater spotted eagles have broader wingspans.

Lesser spotted eagles are considered monogamous birds. Currently there is no clear evidence of partner fidelity, however most birds return to the same nest every year.

Lesser spotted eagles breed once per year. The pair builds a platform nest, generally in a tall tree. Egg laying begins after the nest is complete in late April to early May. It is believed that males are responsible for defending the immediate vicinity around the nest. Lesser spotted eagles lay one to two eggs, but typically only one survives. The older or stronger sibling usually attacks the weaker one. Eggs are laid in the second half of April and between May 23 and 27. The egg incubation period ranges from 36 to 41 days. Fledglings have been observed in the middle of July, with a fledging period up to eight weeks. Juvenile lesser spotted eagles do not reach reproductive age until they are 3 to 4 years old.

The new babies. In rare cases, when prey is very plentiful, both have survived, but if you are watching this nest, please be advised that when I say rare, I do mean rare. Adults will often withhold prey to get the stronger eaglet to attack the other weaker one. When the kill is done, the prey returns.

A golden eagle parent standing over two fluffy chicks in a nest, surrounded by greenery and tree branches.

Two beauties at nest #5 in Finland.

A pair of ospreys tending to their nest, which contains several fluffy chicks. The nest is built from twigs and branches, with a natural landscape in the background.

At the NCTC nest, Susie fledged this afternoon. Congratulations to Bella and Scout.

I hope that Little Dewey’s crop continues to be filled.

Some fish came to the Santiam Canyon Osprey nest for Mum and the trio. They don’t get much fish. It was nice to see their crops filling.

An osprey stands next to its chicks in a nest made of twigs and moss, with a backdrop of trees and a road.
A mother bird feeding her chicks in a nest made of twigs and moss, with a residential area visible in the background.

Thank you so much for being with us today. Please take care and wish for fish at all nests!

Thank you to ‘R’ for that article on aquaculture. Thank you to ‘L’ for the links to Wisdom’s grandchick and a shout-out to Ping Shen for those great images of Harry and Sally and their baby. To Geemeff, we are always grateful for your daily summaries of all news at Loch Arkaig and your videos. To everyone who posted information on FB and images, to Raptor Persecution UK for telling it the way it is, and to the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation and the owners of the streaming cams – we are always thankful to you.

Late, late Saturday in Bird World, and it’s all good!

13 June 2026

Greetings,

I wanted you to have SK Hideaways videos for the week. They are cute and special and please watch them. I am so grateful that they are sent as a list each week to share with you.

SK Hideaways Videos Week of 7 June 2026

FOBBVCAM Eagles Big Bear, CA ~ Jackie, Shadow, Sandy (hatched 4/4/26), Luna (hatched 4/5/26)

Courtesy FOBBVCAM | Friends of Big Bear Valley

Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE

Wide View Cam (Cam 2): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41eq4VzCYc4

Live Recap & Observations: https://bit.ly/3Md8TSz

Luna Gets Big Lift ~ Fledge Fever Nears (2026 Jun 11 )

Luna got a burst of energy that triggered some big wingers, creating a lot of wind and lifting him quite high. He gave us a really good show! Sandy seemed impressed with her brother’s performance, but really just wanted to chill out for the night.

Video: https://youtu.be/W1TSYPxDU_I

Fraser Point Eagles ~ Santa Cruz Island, CA ~ Cruz, Andor, Sasha, Zuma, and Ryder

Courtesy Institute for Wildlife Studies | explore.org | Fraser Point Eagles Cam Ops

Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OY4V_AppZ6s

Sasha Fledges ~ Waiting and Watching for Her Return (2026 Jun 9)

It appears that the eldest eaglet, Sasha, has fledged, having branched two days ago. While we don’t get a clear view of the flight, we do see the launch, which does look convincing. Sooo, we wait, watch, and wish Sasha all the best in this new adventure. 

UPDATE: Sasha returned to the nest at 18:10:03! No question about this successful fledge. Congrats, Sasha!

Video: https://youtu.be/TGfNgOd13wg

Cruz Lunches on Nest Till Eaglets Squee for Theirs ~ Family Time on the Zen Nest (2026 Jun 8)

Cruz and Andor spent their lunch hour with the 3 eaglets. Between allopreening the eaglets, Cruz enjoyed some fish while also answering to the loud squees of eaglets who still enjoy being fed. A multi-tasker extraordinaire. Sasha has branched and enjoyed her perch till that juicy Blacksmith fish lured her back to the nest. Very special to see the whole family together for an extended time. (2026 Jun 8)

Video: https://youtu.be/-xuk4F-09Vk

Hellgate Canyon Ospreys ~ Missoula, MT ~ Iris, Clark, Chick #1

Courtesy CornellLab | Hellgate Osprey Cam | Montana Osprey

Nest cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qvYCbvbeN8

Clark Answers Iris’s Fish Calls ~ Chick #1 Gets Its First Meal (2026 Jun 11)

Iris and Clark’s first chick hatched today, but Iris waited some 48 hours for Clark to bring fish. No one knows why he was delayed, but he certainly made up for it with 4 fish deliveries (as of this video). Once Iris refueled, she fed chick #1. Congratulations, Iris and Clark, and welcome to the world #1.

Video: https://youtu.be/Jkv-aKoTUBk

Two Harbors Eagles ~ Catalina Island, CA ~ Cholyn & Chase

Courtesy Institute for Wildlife Studies | explore.org | Two Harbors Eagles Cam Ops 

Overlook Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yx7RKxpyzQ

Two Harbors Eagle Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5T2eHM8tcI

Cholyn & Chase Bond at Dusk & Dawn ~ Perfect Pairing for 23+ Years (2026 Jun 9-10)

As the Queen and King of the Channel Islands approach their 29th birthdays and 24th anniversary, Cholyn and Chase continue to bond year-round. In addition to bonding, they are ensuring a continuous presence in their seaside territorial paradise. Here we saw them bonding at dusk and dawn at their Two Harbors nest, then transitioning to the salt-water “jacuzzi” and bunker to enjoy a roiling Pacific Ocean. 

Video: https://youtu.be/J0Cg2O0mUgI

San Jose City Hall Falcons ~ San Jose, CA ~ Hartley, Monty, Jet, Scout, Stewart, Walton (hatched 4/21)

Courtesy San Jose City Hall Peregrine Falcon Cam | Predatory Bird Research Group

Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBSxPjy5sow

Ledge Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pp9TisLmLU

Roof Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQLhmV6bP6o

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SanJoseCityHallFalcons/

Wiki https://sanjoseperegrines.editme.com/

Where the Boys Are ~ Eyes on Jet, Scout, Stewart & Walton (2026 Jun 12)

Thanks to the work of our tireless cam ops team, we are able to see all four rascals in the morning, in the evening (ain’t we got fun?). Here we’re treated to morning shenanigans, including some wild and wonderful aerobatics. Bonus sighting of Hartley and Monty with lightning quick bonding.

Video: https://youtu.be/YYo8HrvKVxM

Jet Flies Home with Prey! Everyone Else Follows (2026 Jun 8)

We see 3 juvies fly west, then east ~ in normal and slo-motion. Ultimately, Jet arrives on the nest ledge with prey in his talons. A major accomplishment as Hartley and Monty teach the boys to hunt. Eventually all four chicks visit the ledge, but only Walton seriously challenges Jet for the food. Jet emerges victorious.  While I cheer on their accomplishments, I know that each one inches them closer to dispersing to their new life adventures. Grateful for the remaining days we have to watch them.

Video: https://youtu.be/fLh1sQlYR6g

Where Are the Chicks? Where There’s Food!  PLUS Hartley & Monty Are Chased Away (2026 Jun 7)

The chicks have been zooming around the skies of downtown San Jose for over a week. Their days consist of eating, sleeping, chasing their parents, and eating and sleeping some more. We are so fortunate to be able to watch this formative time in their lives.

Video: https://youtu.be/htZQHY9KYeE

I also have Geemeff’s daily summary:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Saturday 13th June 2026

Today was fairly quiet, an intruder or intruders were about but didn’t come close enough to get caught on nest cam. What was caught by the camera was the two chicks taking lumps out of each other when Dorcha left them alone, and not even her return stopped them, she eventually broke up the fairly evenly matched fight by sitting on one of them. Louis delivered two fish taking the Nest Two tally to one hundred and thirty four, and Garry delivered one fish during cam up-time taking his tally to one hundred and fifteen. Sadly the deadline appears to have passed for Aurora’s egg to hatch and it’s almost certainly time to wish them better luck next year – meantime it will be interesting to see what happens to the egg, and for how long the pair will continue to brood it. Steve Quinn produced his usual thorough fishing stats analysis but while Nest One deliveries will continue to be recorded, they will not be included in future analyses as without chicks and with the cam going down in the morning they aren’t meaningful. Info on where to find his reports in the bonus section. After days of rain, there’s a break in the weather for the next couple of days – it’s be cloudy and dry overnight with a low of 9°C followed by sunshine with gentle breezes and a high of 20°C tomorrow. Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/e4Uuq-3RPV0 N2 Louis brings breakfast – fish one is a big trout 08.56.44https://youtu.be/66YKfKgWRxc

N2 Bonkers! The chicks fight viciously 17.52.09https://youtu.be/qy4rmt6y99E N2 Louis brings a second trout for an early supper 18.28.53https://youtu.be/5ziBMr9mqEw N1 Aurora departs with fish one as soon as Garry brings it 18.30.34

Bonus info – Steve Quinn’s excellent analysis of Louis’ fish deliveries to date: copy & paste Nest 2 fish summary to week 8into the search field (click on the magnifying glass symbol on the right directly above George WTS’ featured comment).

You’re invited to 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

And some brief nest news:

Jill and Jack each brought in a Spadefish this evening for Big and Little!

Screenshot of a social media post by Pam Breci detailing a fishing trip on June 13, 2026, involving Jack, Jill, and Little, highlighting events like catching headless Spadefish and sibling competitions.
A nest with two young birds and an adult bird, surrounded by twigs and leaves.
Two young ospreys feeding in a nest made of sticks and twigs, with one parent osprey nearby, surrounded by greenery.

About two months ago, I realised that my life now is very similar to what all our lives were like during Covid. I am mostly at home, or we walk Toby in the parks and go to a couple of outdoor markets. Mostly we enjoy the garden. It is easier for Don (and thus me), and a few places are dog-friendly, as they are in many parts of Europe. Oh, how I wish! So I have started making little tweaks inside and out to make our lives more beautiful and our spaces safer and more useful to all of us, especially Don.

I purchased our little Bistro set at a shop called Pier 1 approximately 22 or 23 years ago. It is nice for a quick coffee or tea, but uncomfortable for long periods, and there is no way for Don to raise his legs. The picnic table is perfect for a huge group, but not for a leisurely evening. So I found a little teak loveseat with two chairs and a coffee table that can easily double as a footstool! The young man came to assemble it this evening. We just need a few outdoor toss cushions.

Toby approved.

A cozy outdoor seating area featuring two wooden chairs and a bench with white cushions, arranged around a wooden coffee table on a patterned rug. A pink flowering plant is nearby, against a backdrop of a wooden wall and a window.

Inside, I have been decluttering for a good year. One of my long-term readers cum friend in Berlin has joined me in the quest to donate and clean out. It has been fun to see how each of us is progressing. Inside the goal is to create a calm, easy-to-navigate space if and when Don ever needs a walker or a wheelchair. At the same time, I want it to be a beautiful space with things that mean something to me, not just ornaments picked up at the shop. It is coming!

I am just smiling. Clark has had some whoppers come on the nest. There is fish and fish. Oh, please let it continue.

A pair of ospreys on their nest, featuring a fish lying on the nest floor, surrounded by twigs and greenery.
Close-up of an osprey chick peeking out from a nest with eggs and nesting material.
Two ospreys standing on their nest made of sticks, with a view of a parking lot and trees in the background.
An osprey standing on a nest with a chick in a parking lot setting, with trees and a train on a track in the background.

Cornell Bird Lab’s video of Iris feeding the little one. It is precious. https://youtu.be/Xcxl0Q8AIw4?

At Charlo, Charlie has been providing plenty of fish for his new mate and their two chicks, too.

Close-up of a bird nest with a speckled egg and two fuzzy chicks resting on a bed of dried grass and twigs.
An osprey perched on a wooden pole above a nest with another osprey resting inside, set against a backdrop of green fields and mountains.
A live view of an osprey nest in Charlo, Montana, featuring an adult osprey perched on a post and another adult tending to its chicks in the nest, with green fields and mountains in the background.

Here is an update on Snow and it looks all good!https://youtu.be/UIJbRtVy2SU?

A young bald eagle named Snow eating breakfast on Day 10, with food placed in front of it.

At Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, there are at least two osplets on the South nest. One appears to be much larger than the other with the small one in the Reptile phase and the other getting some juvenile feathering. I wish Mum would move for a second so I could verify this!

Mum is anxiously looking around for her mate for their evening meal and maybe a break. If there are only two and there is such a huge size difference, were there three eggs? Did one not hatch? Did all three hatch, and the middle one died? Or are there three under there??? I wonder.

A bird nest made of twigs on a tree branch, situated above a park with a colorful playground in the background.

Anyone know about this nest? Shoot me a note!

As the sun fully sets, Toby and I want to wish each of you a wonderful end of the weekend. We are so thankful for your notes and comments, and the news and images that you send. Take good care. We will see you soon!

Thank you to ‘PB’, SK Hideaways, for their great videos and Geemeff for their daily summary with videos. To all the owners of the streaming cams, we are so appreciative of being able to see these amazing birds and their families. We could not do that without you!

Golden Eagle female missing and chick cannot self-feed…late Friday in Bird World

12 June 2026

The female at the Golden Eagle 2 nest in Estonia has been missing since the 11 June. Dad continues to supply food to the eaglet but as his role is hunting and protecting, he is not feeding. The chick has tried to eat but just can’t. This could quickly turn into a very sad situation where we lose both a healthy bouncy eaglet and its Mum.

A nest in a tree with a chick resting among twigs and greenery, surrounded by lush foliage.

“The Bald Eagle 2 nest camera is located in the extended danger area near the Estonian Defence Forces Central Training Area in Northern Estonia. Defence Forces training involves quite noisy activities or a large number of equipment and people moving around the training area. In order to clarify the impact of these activities on eagles nesting in the vicinity of the training areas, the State Defence Investment Centre has commissioned a study, which is being carried out by the Eagle Club. During the study, we installed a nest camera on a bald eagle nest, among other activities.

Kaljukotkas 2 is a native territory of golden eagles – one of those located south of Lahemaa National Park in Põhja-Kõrvemaa. The nests have been located in this territory over time on different bog islands or on the edge of the bog; the generations of golden eagles have changed there, but the territory has remained the same. The eagles have been nesting in this nest at the end of a large stump since 2016. In recent years, the chick here has become capable of flying, although at a later time than average. This indicates that the laying of eggs is later than average. The chick of 2023 also got a companion with the help of our German colleague Oliver Krone. It flew from the breeding territory to Latvia in early November, returned to Estonia in early December and spent the winter here. We have not added the monitored golden eagles to the migration map, because they tend to be quite sedentary. However, some of the young birds hatched in Estonia move as far as Poland and Ukraine for the winter.

Both adult birds are here without rings, so we do not know their age or origin. The first egg appeared in the nest this year on March 26 at 2:46 p.m. We can expect the chick to hatch at the end of April.”

Clark brought the first fish right after 0900 but immediately an intruder was in the area. He flew off with the fish and returned it to Iris at 0931 so that her and the baby could eat.

Two ospreys are standing on their nest made of sticks and branches, with one chick visible among the nesting material. In the background, a green space and a parking lot can be seen.
Two ospreys are nesting on a large nest made of sticks and greenery, with a parking lot and trees visible in the background.
A pair of ospreys in their nest, with one chick visible among twigs and greenery, set against a background of an empty parking lot and trees.

Baby has had at least one other feeding before noon! Things look good for Iris and Clark who has been bringing in nesting materials, too.

Heidi reports that Miles and Hennie now have three babies. Wish them well.

An osprey nest containing three chicks, with one chick being fed by the parent osprey. The nest is made of twigs and is located in a grassy area.

There is a baby at nest 12 at Kielder Forest!

Nest 12 hatch news

Dani Connor saved a plantation forest in Sweden near her home in the north through a GoFundMe. She was determined that the red squirrels and other wildlife would not lose their home. Just look at what is happening in Norway. Our wildlife need trees and it isn’t just the birds. Our planet needs trees. I know the plantation trees were planted to be cut down but perhaps with the climate heating up so much, it is time to find a way to purchase these lands.

A view of a logging site in Gudbrandsdalen, Norway, showing cleared land with fallen trees and stumps, reflecting deforestation efforts. The background features a green landscape and cloudy sky.

This reminds me. It appears to me that the fundraising for Moon Camp to protect the land around Jackie and Shadow’s nest has stalled at about 3.3 million. That is a huge amount of funds donated by fundraising by viewers and local school children. They are posting that they need 6 million by the end of the month. If you are intending to donate but haven’t yet, please check in and do so. Help them save this land where other wildlife also live. Go to SaveMoonCamp.org

A plea for donations to save Jackie and Shadow's home, mentioning a fundraising goal of over 6 million by July 31.

It looks like SK Hideaways has caught Jackie and Shadow’s Luna getting lift, and believe me, everyone is concerned about fireworks with Luna and Sandy. They are in a fledge window. https://youtu.be/W1TSYPxDU_I?

I love this family tree from Big Bear that was posted on FB.

Infographic detailing the Eagle family tree associated with Big Bear, featuring images of eagles and their names, from the founders Ricky and Lucy to current generation Sandy and Luna with 2026 eaglets.

SW Florida’s Bald Eagle nest in Fort Myers on the Pritchett Property M15 has a new female to replace F23 who was killed during the 2026 season. Check out Photos by Donna Lee on FB to see all of the images of M15 with his new mate.

A Facebook post dated June 10, 2026, describing the author's encounter with a bird named Mighty M15 and his new companion, the Lady Eagle, including a narrative of their behaviors and a photo opportunity.
A collage of several images featuring a Bald Eagle perched on a metal structure, showcasing its feathers and silhouette against a cloudy sky.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch ArkaigThursday 11th June 2026

Sadly, there’s only one talking point today and that’s the loss of little Chick3. Hatched on 6th June shortly after midnight, the little chick was five days old today and didn’t really have a chance against its two big siblings. Despite Louis delivering plenty of food, Dorcha keeping the chicks warm and dry, and the older pair mainly taking out their aggression on each other, the youngest chick was too weak to survive on a reduced diet. Comfort can be found in that Chick3’s death was as peaceful as is possible on a lively Osprey nest. In other news, Dorcha furiously saw off an intruding Osprey who first perched on the camera pole and then on the nearby Scots Pine – she kept it so well away that it was impossible to see if it was yesterday’s intruder JJ4 returning, or a stranger. Louis delivered four fish taking the Nest Two tally to one hundred and twenty nine, and Garry LV0 delivered three fish to Aurora 536, taking the Nest One tally to one hundred and twelve. Aurora’s egg is now forty two days old and the possibility of hatching is improbable but not yet impossible. The weather was a repeat of yesterday’s, wet and windy, and tonight’s overnight forecast is light rain and light winds with a low of 11°C overnight, continuing with thundery showers, a moderate breeze and a high of 15°C tomorrow.

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/000FxooDYzw N2 All three chicks are up and begging when fish one arrives 04.21.29https://youtu.be/yMsFcwb3ydo N1 Dorcha furiously sees off an intruder Osprey 08.34.16 (zoom)https://youtu.be/I8khzUqtd8I N2 Mum blocks the view when fish two is dished up 09.06.53https://youtu.be/XhHOcGuOSM0 N2 A little life has ended: RIP Chick3 10.00+https://youtu.be/i7VWDUd6J0k N1 Is Garry’s first fish a Silver Tourist? 10.53.39https://youtu.be/gRTAjaxD40k N2 Fish three is huge but there are only two chicks 14.15.26https://youtu.be/fVKuNTE9nDo N1 Aurora’s very quiet but does take fish two 18.45.22https://youtu.be/fn1jj9Oh-4w N1 Aurora takes fish three and stumbles on a loose bit of bark 21.36.09https://youtu.be/u3rJzYfaS1M N2 Fish number four is tiny and is quickly demolished 21.51.01

Bonus read: Toby Carvery apologise for cutting down one of the important trees on Woodland Trust’s Ancient Tree Register and will plant 1,000 new trees (Ed: as if that could replace the 500 year old oak!) 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c05yz89jrleo

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

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

I am happy to say that our garden animals are thriving. We now have four European Starling fledglings! And I have discovered that Crows like large raw minnows – the ones that were in the freezer that Toby decided were not ‘dehydrated’. So there you go – have large minnows in your freezer, and you don’t go fishing, well, feed the crows. Their babies need mushy protein.

Thank you so much for being with us today. I am signing off. Toby and I are going to relax a little while Don is out with Ann. We wish you a lovely weekend with a lot of ice cream. And watch Iris and Clark with their new baby – . Might there be others? I promise you that unless there is another weather event there, this nest is going to be one to watch and I was a huge skeptic.

Toby loves strawberry ice cream.

A close-up of a bowl of pink ice cream on a colorful patterned tablecloth, with a small dog resting its paws on the owner's leg, eagerly looking at the ice cream.

Thank you to everyone who contributed information and images to FB, to SK Hideaways for their video, Geemeff for their daily summary, and Donna Lee for those great images of M15 and his new lady. Always great to have news from Heidi and Keilder Forest. hank you to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to watch these amazing bird families.

Iris leaves eggs for fish, Little Bob Dies…Thursday in Bird World

11 June 2026

Hello Everyone,

It is a heavily overcast morning with light rain that is making the garden appear to be the most gorgeous emerald green. Dyson has already been for food and so have the Crows, the Blue Jays, and the Starlings. The foliage is so thick I can only see them on the table feeder or if they go in the bird bath. Otherwise they fly in and out so fast. Mr Blue Jay and Mr Crow have babies to feed. The Starlings appear to have at least one fledgling. They will leave soon – when the fledglings can adequately fly and they will return in the fall.

A blue bird perched on a feeder filled with peanuts, surrounded by lush green foliage.

Well, I don’t know what anyone else thinks but Iris left the nest yesterday three times – she is hungry! The weather and the absence of Clark for long periods is concerning. It is not clear to me what is happening where they fish and I wish Dr Green would post us some information. At any rate, there is a rumour that the first pip is happening. Please pray for Iris and these babies. She has been so devoted and so was Clark that it is hard to believe that there won’t be food for them. Iris has been at this rodeo before…please give us a miracle.

A view from an osprey nest positioned atop a platform, showing a mostly empty parking lot with lined spaces and trees in the background. The nest is made of sticks and contains some greenery.

It breaks my heart to hear Iris fish calling and Clark not flying in with a big one. Is the noise on the camera the river rushing? Does anyone know?

An osprey resting in its nest made of twigs, with a partially empty parking lot and trees in the background during early morning light.

The first chick has hatched at Charlo Montana.

Fru Rauer has three beautiful babies at the Fru Rauer nest in Norway.

An osprey feeding its chicks in a nest surrounded by sticks and branches.

Little Bob at Loch Arkaig 2, the nest of Louis and Dorcha, has been struggling and died early this morning. Condolences to all.

Little Dewey was tucking into a really nice big fish so him and Mum will eat well.

A young bird sitting in a nest surrounded by twigs, with a large fish nearby, likely being fed by a parent.

There will be two hatches at Osoyoos in British Columbia by the time you read this. It is another problem nest where you get heat domes and the fish disappear. Thanks, Heidi.

A bird standing in a nest with several eggs and newly hatched chicks visible.

Geemeff’s summary from the 10th of June:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Wednesday 10th June 2026Plenty of fish were delivered today, two to Nest One taking Garry LV0’s tally to one hundred and nine, and Louis’ four fish take the Nest Two tally to one hundred and twenty five.However, that didn’t stop chick aggression which was on show at mealtimes and whenever Dorcha left the nest, and there were concerns about Chick3, but the little chick had a really good meal from the second delivery, and seems to have the good sense to duck down when older siblings C1&2 are fighting each other. There were a few intruder alarms, some seen, some not – a Buzzard was heard near Nest Two and handsome JJ4 from the western Arkaig nest landed on Nest One but only for a few seconds before a furious Aurora got rid of him. It rained on and off today, and more rain forecast: light rain and a gentle breeze with a low of 9°C overnight, continuing with light wind and light rain and a high of 14°C tomorrow.

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/byWNjhyHNU8 N1 Aurora arrives with the remains of an offline delivery 07.51.35 (zoom)https://youtu.be/VvSrSnztF60 N2 Late breakfast finally arrives 09.23.08https://youtu.be/wbVDZeqzlpU N2 Chick3 struggles to get any of fish two 10.33.35https://youtu.be/2McuL8yMtw4  N1 Western Arkaig male JJ4 intrudes on Aurora 11.50.52 (+screenshots)https://youtu.be/IY8Lo9kRGoM N2 Louis returns fish two, and the littlest chick gets a very good share 13.06.15https://youtu.be/M_v_knfLaWQ N2 Fish number three is a really tiny trout 17.13.06https://youtu.be/z9S7WEdiHao N1 Garry brings a fish supper for Aurora 19.12.22https://youtu.be/hiPksYDW890 N2 Fish number four arrives with Dorcha on high alert 20.54.06

You’re invited to 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

Please send your good wish to Iris. I had hoped these eggs would not hatch after the delivery of fish fell so dramatically.

Take care, everyone. I need a wee break from all of this…it is a tragic year, and we all need to take a breath sometimes.

Thank you to Heidi, PB, Geemeff, and all those who posted information on FB. Please follow Iris and send her good energy, and if you can, drop a fish – wish for fish!!!!!!! Hugo Yugo is fine this morning, and I am going to enjoy the birds in the garden today, even if it is raining. I know they are well fed and alive, and even Dyson is coming out, so I can see her! Thank you to the cam owners so that we can witness the lives, the good and the bad, at these nests.

A squirrel sitting on a wooden feeder, holding a piece of food, with green foliage in the background.

First hatch for Winnie and Swoop and Sasha fledges…Late Tuesday in Bird World

9 June 2026

Hello Everyone,

We are in the direct path of a series of supercells forming south of us and moving slowly north, so this post is going to be short and sweet. We are under a severe tornado watch and have had ping-pong-ball-sized hail. Toby has been very upset by the storm and the heavy, heavy downpours. We are fine. I grew up in Oklahoma, so I am familiar with those big F4S tornadoes, and we know what to do.

Image on FB by Katie Powell in St Anne Manitoba:

A dark, ominous sky with a large, swirling funnel cloud forming above a building, indicating a severe storm or tornado.

Sasha has fledged at the Fraser Point Bald Eagle nest of Andor and Cruz. Congratulations! SK Hideaways has it on video: https://youtu.be/TGfNgOd13wg?

Clark brought in two fish yesterday. Some of the local fisherpeople believe that he had to go to the Rattlesnake River to get them – one came late at night also. That was incredible. It is difficult enough for ospreys to see in rushing muddy water, but at night?

A pair of ospreys perched on a nest made of branches and twigs, with one osprey sitting while the other stands nearby. The background shows a parking lot and trees.
Close-up image of an osprey sitting in its nest, showcasing its distinct brown and white plumage and sharp beak.
A close-up of an osprey nest, showcasing a young osprey interacting with three eggs on a bed of twigs and grass.
Close-up view of an osprey's talons resting near two eggs on a nest, surrounded by pine needles and greenery.

It is just past 1500 on the Canadian Prairies. It is one hour earlier at Iris’s nest. I have seen no fish deliveries today, but it has been raining periodically. I wish we could find out more about the status of the river near the nest. This issue with getting fish is going to seriously impact these chicks!

Clark came in with a small fish that Iris quickly snatched.

Two ospreys near their nest, one holding a fish while the other stands nearby, with a blurred parking lot in the background.

‘PB’ alerted me to Jill’s big fish for the kids. This nest is doing so well and those fledglings are getting big and strong so they can survive on their own. She has been an outstanding mother.

A close-up of a dog holding a fish in its mouth while standing on a pile of sticks and debris.

Geemeff – thank you for following what is happening with that natural material or twine or whatever it is that Dorcha worked hard to try and get off that chick! We will appreciate any updates.

Geemeff Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Tuesday 9th June 2026

It rained on and off today but more concerning than the weather was something wrapped tightly around the leg of one of the chicks, Chick2, it seems, but a closer look is needed to confirm. It appears to be organic rather than man made but it will be a relief when it’s off, Dorcha tried and failed to remove it today. Another, minor, concern is the attitude of the chicks – not yet in the reptilian phase, but their aggressive instinct to dominate and ensure priority on the feeding line has kicked in early. Chick3 does its best to keep out of the way of its older siblings but doesn’t always succeed. However, this is all perfectly natural and seen every season in varying degrees. Even a season with a solo chick had aggression – lacking siblings, the chick constantly attacked Dorcha! Louis ensures there’s a steady supply of food and each chick got fed from every fish so this season is proceeding along the usual lines, including the inevitable arrival of unsuitable sticks which cause mayhem, it was Dorcha’s turn today. Louis brought two fish, taking the Nest Two tally to one hundred and twenty one, and Garry’s single fish for Aurora takes the Nest One tally to one hundred and seven. Day forty for Aurora’s egg ended with no sign of a pip yet, but there are still a couple more days in the hatching time frame, perhaps we’ll have a surprise in the morning – fingers and talons firmly crossed for Garry and Aurora. Light rain forecast for overnight with a low of 7°C, changing to thundery showers with a high of 13°C tomorrow.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/1ZJd_MubgFo N2 Two eldest chicks prefer fighting to fish! 07.44.17
https://youtu.be/jbhaZwjRscs N2 Not good! One of the chicks has something tight around its leg 14.23.01 (zoom)https://youtu.be/xD5vP8wcEUI N1 Garry arrives covered in fish blood, Aurora grabs the fish and goes 18.01.11

https://youtu.be/spH0oa8uJRI N2 Youngest chick doesn’t get much of fish two 19.15.39

You’re invited to 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

At Dunrovin, the first hatch for Swoop and Winnie! That is one strong-necked chick.

An adult bird feeding a chick in a nest surrounded by eggs and natural debris.

It appears that the Little Tiny Bob at Steelscape did not survive the sibling rivalry.

Dewey Beach, on the other hand, is doing well. Love Baby Dewey. There are issues with fish deliveries at many of the nests that sadly might continue. Send good wishes. So far, Dewey isn’t one of them. Look at that chubby osplet chick. That is what they should all look like – fat.

An osprey standing on a nest with a chick and two eggs, overlooking a waterfront area with buildings in the background.

I am going to say good night. It looks like the storms are now east of the City of Winnipeg, so I am going to relax. We still have some lightning, but I hope no more hail or wind, but oh, there is thunder again. So far, only one tree fell on a car on our street (not mine).

Take care everyone.

Thank you to Geemeff for their daily summary and for keeping an eye on that material on nest 2, to SK Hideaways thank you for the videos, and to all who posted information and images on FB, I am very grateful.

Jill does it again! Two whoppers…Late, late Sunday in Bird World

7 June 2026

Hello Everyone,

It is the end of the weekend as I write this, and now the beginning of the week. We hope that you have a wonderful one.

Look at these two sweethearts. I melted when I saw them together.

Missey and Hugo Yugo.

Two cats lying close together on a patterned rug, one tabby and one long-haired, both appearing relaxed and content.

Whether it is sitting outside listening to the birdsong or just looking at the four cats and Toby that share my life inside, they make me a better person. They also make me so happy. It is something that I cannot fully explain but I also know that most of you know what I am trying to say!

What bothers me is that there are individuals who care nothing for animals, believing humans to be far superior. My son said once that ‘humans are a failed experiment’ compared to animals. My late mentor, Laura Culley, would agree. How do we get people to care? Could it be that we need to get them to understand the benefits of birdwatching?

Thanks Mustafa for sending me this:

https://www.cbc.ca/radio/quirks/bird-watching-brain-9.7108469

I worry about the raptors that lose their children or their mate. In this case, Seren has been on my mind so much.

Beautiful Seren was on her nest on a wet Sunday evening in Wales. I wonder where she thinks her babies are?

A close-up of an osprey standing in its nest, surrounded by twigs and greenery, with a blurred background of rolling hills and trees.
An osprey is perched in a nest made of sticks and branches, with a blurry view caused by moisture on the camera lens. The background features a green landscape with trees and hills.

Dorcha and her three babies are waiting for Louis and a fish. That fish came, and Dorcha gave a huge piece to three who appeared to be choking on it. Dorcha began to brood, and we do not know the status of little three as I write.

A young eagle chick sits in a nest made of twigs and branches, while an adult eagle stands nearby, both positioned against a blurred landscape in the background.
A hawk tending to three chicks in a nest made of sticks on a tree, with a green landscape in the background.

It’s pitching down. We may not know what happened to little 3 til tomorrow.

A night vision image of a bird nest made of twigs and branches, with a bird possibly resting or hidden among the materials. The scene is dark with minimal visible light.

Aeron Z2 and Blue 014 on their Pont Cresor nest.

An osprey standing on a nest made of sticks, with another osprey sitting nearby, surrounded by a lush green landscape and mountains in the background.

Little 4 at Poole Harbour has a much better change with the great parenting and all the fish than some of the US nests that are struggling.

An adult osprey sits in a nest, surrounded by three fluffy chicks, with a fish in the foreground.

If you would like to guess the gender of Maya and Blue 33’s trio, please go to the chat associated with the streaming cam and put your guess in the comments.

A bird nest containing two chicks and an egg, with a parent bird standing nearby, overlooking a body of water.
An osprey nest containing three chicks and one adult bird, situated by a body of water, surrounded by branches and twigs.

What a relief. Big and Little showed up at the Achieva nest in the afternoon together.

Two young birds sitting in a nest made of twigs and branches, surrounded by greenery.

Jill brought in a huge freshwter fish and Big took it. Later she went out and caught another one, both waiting. I wonder if Little got some?

PB: Jill did it again!!! 18:30 huge speckled trout. Big got it but Little was hungry and as PB said, got bold and took it from Big.

Two ospreys interacting in their nest, one holding a fish while the other approaches.

At the US Steel nest, Sid has branched. SPO wrote, “On June 5, 2026, Sid the eaglet hopped onto its first branch at the U.S. Steel eagle nest in Pennsylvania, turning a quick, wobbly move into a milestone moment as Hutch, Sid, and Maz move closer to fledging.

At 65 days old, Sid made a short but meaningful first trip onto a branch. 

It was not a dramatic long perch or a polished eagle pose yet. It was better than that. It was honest, wobbly, determined, and full of young-eagle energy.

This was not just a few seconds on a branch. It was Sid’s first real step beyond the nest bowl, a small move that showed just how quickly the U.S. Steel eaglets are growing.”

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Sunday 7th June 2026

Today was wet and mainly uneventful – no pip yet in Aurora and Garry’s single egg yet although at one stage Aurora looked like she was listening to the egg. It’s Day 38 and eggs can hatch right up to Day 42 so the wait goes on. Over on Nest Two, Dorcha has been stuffing the three chicks full of fish, perhaps too much so as the almost-two day old youngest chick appeared to get a large morsel stuck in its throat. Dorcha then covered the chicks – subsequent glimpses appear to show movement but it will be a relief to get a proper look. However, Louis may have something to say about that as he’s brought a stick with lichen pom poms, and plopped it down right where it obscures our view! He brought three fish today and the Nest Two tally rises to one hundred and seventeen, while Garry’s single fish takes the Nest One tally to one hundred and four. The wet weather continues with more light rain overnight and a low of 9°C, and light rain showers with a high of 14°C tomorrow.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/KlCD25fRD0Y N2 Louis stays to watch as Dorcha tears into the first fish 05.21.23

https://youtu.be/S8Y6TDKMoqk N2 Dorcha eschews fish two in favour of keeping the chicks warm and dry 09.51.06

https://youtu.be/DW1_cq0Ztlo N1 Garry brings a good size trout and settles on the egg 11.37.08

You’re invited to 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

Thank you for being with us as we sit and wait to see how the baby is at Loch Arkaig and for one of Iris’s eggs to pip.

Take care.

Thank you to Geemeff for their daily summary, to PB and Heidi for information on nests and fish ID, and to all others who post information on FB and elsewhere or own streaming cams that allow us to see the lives of our birds.