Tag Archives: Manton Bay

Snow’s nest is still holding by a miracle….late Wednesday in Bird World

27 May 2026

Hello everyone, from a very hot Canadian Prairie that is due to get hotter. Ann kept Don and Toby inside. Friday is to be 34. I think that sounds like a walk at the mall!!!!!!!!

Allow me to take a deep breath, and before we get into the lawsuit in Florida about Scrub Jays, I want to say that by some miracle, the branch that broke on the Traverse City Bald Eagle nest in Michigan, fell and caught itself on the tree adjacent, and is supporting that tilted nest. How long it will hold, we do not know. I hope it is long enough for Snow to fly. We need a good three weeks. The average is 10-14 weeks. So, right now, Snow is 6.5 weeks old.

A bald eagle and a younger eagle perched on a nest surrounded by pine trees, with the sky in the background. The timestamp shows 9:42 AM on May 27, 2026.
A close-up view of a large eagle's nest located on a tree branch, with an eagle standing inside the nest. The background features a calm body of water and partly cloudy skies.
An osprey sits on its nest, which is located high in a tree near a body of water. The nest contains young chicks, and the scene is set in a partly cloudy sky.
Two eagles, one adult and one juvenile, perched on a nest surrounded by trees near a body of water.
A large bird resting on a nest made of twigs and grass, surrounded by a natural setting. The scene captures a partly cloudy day, with a view of a blue sky in the background.
A young bird sitting in a nest made of twigs and grass, overlooking a body of water. The setting is partly cloudy with visible weather information displayed in the corner.

Now, back to the Endangered Florida Scrub Jays. We have a detective in our midst, and ‘R’ was able to find out the following information which should really bring a light to the threat to the birds!

“I searched for this, and got the following: 

Yes, it appears Colosi knew (or should have known) about the protected status before buying.
Key facts:
• Purchase date: March 2024. 
• Habitat plan: Charlotte County’s Scrub-Jay Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) was approved in 2014 — a full 10 years earlier. It’s been public policy since then, with clear rules and fees for building in designated areas. 
• Public records: The county’s property records for his specific parcel note that “Land value may be adjusted due to scrub jay habitat.” It’s also visible on the county’s GIS maps (a public online tool)

Did he actually know?
• Colosi and his lawyers (Pacific Legal Foundation) have not directly said whether he was aware of the restrictions when he bought it. When journalists asked, they avoided answering.
• Critics and local observers point out it’s hard to miss: the restrictions are on maps, in public records, and part of standard real estate due diligence in the area. Many people assume he bought it anyway, possibly betting on a legal challenge.
This is a classic “buyer beware” (caveat emptor) situation. The restrictions were already in place long before he purchased the 5 acres. He’s now challenging the fee system as unconstitutional rather than claiming he was blindsided.”

I love this type of deep digging and finding the true facts. Thank you, ‘R’. I hope that there are lawyers representing Scrub Jays. They have represented ‘trees’ why not birds and rivers? I must look into this. Gosh I wish I had the time I had before Don’s dementia entered my world.

A respected scientist recognized.

Email announcement from BirdLife International regarding Dr. Stuart Butchart's election as a Fellow of the Royal Society, highlighting his contributions to conservation science.

We are all pulling for Dewey Beach. Last year, the only surviving osplet died on day 50, five days from fledging, due to starvation. This year only one egg hatched and this little sweetheart has woven itself into our hearts. Dad is finding little fish, sometimes a nice sized Menhaden. Please keep sending positive wishes that this single osplet survives and flies. Now the question I have is this: When does Omega Protein start taking out all the fish?

Found out: Omega Protein’s menhaden reduction fishing in the Chesapeake Bay typically begins in May. For the 2026 season, operations are set to ramp up significantly in June. 

An osprey nest with a parent osprey feeding its chick, with an adult bird visible in the background. There are two eggs in the nest among twigs and grass.
An osprey is feeding its chick in a nest containing two eggs, with a waterfront restaurant in the background.

Chick 3 has arrived at Kielder 1A nest.

Full complement at Nest 1A

Fundraising at Poole Harbour. Looking for a beautiful osprey print?

Artwork featuring a detailed illustration of ospreys in their natural habitat, created by wildlife artist Bruce Pearson to celebrate the nesting of the Carey Ospreys.

Myrtle, the female whose five eggs were destroyed by two different males, has returned to Loch Garten and is being courted by a pale male.

An osprey nest with one bird perched and another flying above, showcasing a natural environment at Loch Garten.

‘PB’ reports that there are four osplets at Steelscape in WA. They note that the older two are already fighting! Send them positive wishes. Mum is trying her best to feed all including little 4.

Please be sure to go and vote for the name for NewGuy2 at Hellgate Canyon. Iris’s great mate needs a name!

​​Help name Iris’s mate! Vote on your favorite name by June 2, and you could win free enrollment in Bird Academy’s Hawk and Raptor ID course. Vote here 👉 https://hubs.la/Q04hFrKD0

A nest of hawklets for Big Red and Arthur!

A red-tailed hawk is perched in a nest with two fluffy chicks, surrounded by twigs and branches, against a backdrop of greenery and urban streets.
A nest with several fluffy red-tailed hawk chicks resting inside, perched on a metal railing, with a view of a tree-lined street below.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Wednesday 27th May 2026

No rain, no intruders, just sunshine and plenty of fish today. Louis delivered two fish for Dorcha, taking the Nest Two tally to ninety, while over on Nest One, Garry LV0 delivered three fish to Aurora 536, taking that tally to eighty five. Aurora actually refused the second fish but took the third one eagerly, perhaps she’d worked up an appetite following her encounter with a Great Tit which startled her so much she fled the nest. Safe to say, the tiny passerine was also startled – the size difference is stupendous. Another dry night of clear skies and light winds is forecast with a low of 9°C overnight, continuing tomorrow with sunny intervals, a gentle breeze and a high of 25°C. At the time of filing this report (00.30), Cam Two is still on day mode. This time next week we could have our first hatch! Fingers crossed these calm conditions continue.

Today’s videos:
https://youtu.be/kiZWFWC-Z1U N2 Louis delivers a very early breakfast 04.48.25https://youtu.be/q7tXL9-lePA N1 Garry LV0 brings elevenses 11.07.27 https://youtu.be/zqn2ekT6_a0 N1 Aurora’s not interested in the second fish 15.07.16https://youtu.be/_0Lt0-0fHzE N2 Louis arrives with a teatime trout 15.44.22https://youtu.be/hRAXavzJk9Q N1 Aurora is startled by a passing passerine and flees the nest 17.15.39 (slo-mo repeat)https://youtu.be/jnSHJWFcXRY N1 Aurora doesn’t ignore fish three – she seizes it immediately 19.35.13
Bonus read: For those interested in technical details, here’s the consultation on the management of Clunes and Arkaig Forest:

https://forestryandland.gov.scot/living-and-working/communities/land-management-plans/active-plans/clunes-and-loch-arkaig-forest-land-management-plan-consultation

Monty and Hartley certainly have their hands full with these four boys. Thanks, SK Hideaways for capturing some of the antics: https://youtu.be/gJPOZNVVLf4?

The trio at the nest of Maya and Blue 33 are now in the Reptilian Phase. Big ones in food coma and Maya feeding the third hatch. It looks like the final egg is a Dudley.

An osprey stands near its nest on the edge of a water body, with three fuzzy chicks nestled in the nest surrounded by sticks and twigs.

One of those short reads that is so informative – think White Storks and how people love them. They bring luck and my friends and readers in Poland and other parts of Europe treasure these beautiful birds and pray that they will make a nest on their home!

Country diary: A jaw-dropping bounty of wildlife – and a reminder of what Britain has lost | PolandDownload

‘PB’ sent me a note at a time when I really needed a renewal in trusting humans to help. A female White Stork whose eggs were hatching lost her mate. The community takes turn feeding her just like they did at Mlade Buky.

A stork standing on a nest made of twigs atop a pole, with clouds in the background.

Good night Bety and Bukachek.

A view from a stork nest overlooking a small village at dusk, featuring two storks, one standing and one sitting, with rooftops and mountains in the background.

Little Golden Eaglet safe under Mum in Estonia.

A golden eagle sitting on its nest with two white eggs, surrounded by trees and foliage.

Black Stork Nest 3 in Estonia has 3 eggs.

A stork standing in its nest with two eggs, surrounded by trees and foliage.

Toby says ‘enough is enough’. It is time to play fetch! How can I resist those eyes?

A black and white Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sitting on a brown mat with a toy in front of it. The background includes wooden decking and potted plants.

There is a second hatch at Pont Cresor! Yeah for Aeron Z2 and Blue 014.

Thank you so much for being with us today. Take care. Stay cool and hydrated if you are in a region that is hot like it is here. See you soon!

Thank you to all my contributors – to SK Hideaways and Geemeff for their videos and reports, to ‘PB’ for keeping me up to date on several nests, to the folks that are literally with their will power and that supporting branch miracle holding up Snow’s nest, and to the others who wrote reports and posted them on FB and to the owners of the streaming cams who let us view these incredible bird families. Thank you to all! We are so fortunate.

UK osprey chicks doing so well…Late Sunday in Bird World

24 May 2026

Hello Everyone,

Oh, the rain is gone, the sun is out, and Toby had a walk before the hot weather kicked in after lunch. Don and Toby are now sound asleep on the sofa. I noticed that it is sometimes harder for Don to walk with us. It looks like it is time to get that all-important walker! I am still sick, but the nice weather is giving me some energy!

Later…25 C. Toby hid under the deck when we went outside. It was his way of telling us that it was too hot for a Cavalier to be outside. Geemeff reported it was 27 C in London and we are expecting 32 C this coming week. Our City is wondering what to do about climate change – one big answer is trees. Thankfully, they have replanted every 123 year old tree cut down on our street. Will I live to see them reach 10 metres? I wonder. They certainly aren’t going to be offering shade soon.

Our Province generates electricity by hydroelectric power in the north. What happens if the water dries up? Are these things I should be thinking about insteading of listening to birdsong in the garden.

No, we should all be outside in nature listening for birdsong and enjoying the breeze, if there is one. It heals everything.

SK Hideaways videos of the week:

SK Hideaways Videos, week of 17 May 2026

FOBBVCAM Eagles ~ Big Bear Valley, CA ~ Jackie, Shadow, Sandy & Luna
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

Jackie & Shadow Greet Stunning Sunrise ~ Sandy & Luna Listen & Learn (2026 May 21)Jackie and Shadow greet each day with a series of chortles, snortles, and togetherness.  6-week-old Sandy and Luna observe the tradition in hopes of having perfect mates of their own one day. They did take a break in their listening exercise to have something that looked like a PS (poop shot) contest, which definitely added an unexpected element of humor to this otherwise serene slice of the family’s morning.
Video: https://youtu.be/gsX35LWeo8U

Fraser Point Eagles ~ Santa Cruz Island, CA ~ Cruz, Andor, Sasha, Zuma & Ryder
Courtesy Institute for Wildlife Studies | explore.org | Fraser Point Eagles Cam Ops
Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OY4V_AppZ6s

Cruz manages the eaglets’ snatch & go shenanigans vs. peregrine mom Hartley doing the same (2026 May 20)
A morning in the life of Cruz and Andor, and their 7-week-old eaglets Sasha, Zuma, and Ryder. The Fraser Point nest is often called the “Zen nest” for good reason. We thought it would be interesting to contrast that calm to the mayhem that ensues when peregrine falcon parents bring prey to chicks of the comparatively same age. As such, there is a 2-minute clip of the San Jose City Hall Falcons receiving one of their meals this morning. Do you relate more with Zen or Zany? 
Video: https://youtu.be/c9rs3z7Rh6c


San Jose City Hall Falcons ~ San Jose, CA ~ Hartley, Monty, Jet, Scout, Stewart & Walton
Courtesy San Jose City Hall Peregrine Falcon Cam
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

Meet Jet, Scout, Stewart & Walton ~ Flapping, Bouncing Boys at 4-1/2 Weeks (2026 May 23)Hartley and Monty’s 4-1/2-week old boys are on track to take flight far sooner than we’re ready ~ as soon as next week. Jet, Scout, Stewart, and Walton are flapping, bouncing, and head-tilting exactly as they should be at this age. Their shenanigans are more entertaining by the day.
Video: https://youtu.be/EYU0d3IHwSk
4 Week Milestones: Chicks sleep outside nest box, steal prey, perch on ledge and drain (2026 May 18)
The chicks are achieving milestones right on schedule. They had many firsts yesterday: sleeping outside the nest box (3 of them), stealing prey from parents, jumping up to the lower ledge (2 of them), and Red perched on the drain. They’re growing up way too fast for my liking.
Video: https://youtu.be/GhKpFR5-4Ao


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

Cholyn & Chase’s Date Night ~ Seaside Chat & Sunset Stick Wrangling (22 May 2026)
Though we can’t follow them every second of the day (unfortunately), on-cam views tell us that Cholyn and Chase spend a lot of time together. Cam ops found them in their seaside hideaway, chortling, beaky kissing, and watching the world go by. Later, they met on the Two Harbors nest, where a pesky Y branch is partially obstructing one of their flight paths and really getting on Chase’s nerves. So far, the branch is winning. No matter where they are or what they’re doing, observing this special couple is always a huge gift.
Video: https://youtu.be/PxEikeV79oQ

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Sunday 24th May 2026

Today’s report is pretty much the same as yesterday’s – routine fish deliveries and incubation changeovers, and some rain. The only unusual thing was some owl calls heard near Nest Two in daylight, bringing up the possibility that last year’s mimic Jay might be back. Garry LV0 brought one fish on camera for Aurora 536, taking the Nest One tally to seventy nine, and Louis brought two fish for Dorcha, taking the Nest Two tally to eighty four. At the time of posting this report (23.30) night cam is on on both nests and both females are sitting peacefully on the eggs, three eggs for Dorcha and one for first time mum Aurora. The overnight forecast islight clouds with a low of 11°C, changing to light rain showers with sunny spells and a high of 17°C tomorrow.

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/N1PzT74pRgU N2 Breakfast for Dorcha 06.14.30https://youtu.be/uqynv2YQgfg N1 Large headless trout for Aurora 12.20.55https://youtu.be/N1PzT74pRgU N2 Second fish for Dorcha 17.49.34

Bonus watch – With reference to the mimic Jay and the cleverness of Corvids, here’s David Attenborough and the Crows in Japan who’ve learned to use humans to their advantage:

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/oQ-vxocxIJs  N2 Watch those big feet Louis! Bob gets stood on 2025

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

When will Richmond and Wendy have chicks? Well, we don’t know but this was Rosie’s schedule.

Chart illustrating the hatching timeline for osprey eggs based on previous incubation data, highlighting key dates for potential hatching.

SK Hideaways introduces us to the San Jose City Hall falcons and their new names. https://youtu.be/EYU0d3IHwSk?

Four young peregrine falcons, labeled Jet, Scout, Stewart, and Walton, perched side by side on a ledge, showcasing their youthful feathers and behaviors as they prepare to take flight.

Two cuties for Idris and Telyn so far at Dyfi. Adults did a team feeding on Sunday. Sweet.

Close-up of two newly hatched osprey chicks with remnants of eggshell and nesting material in the background.

Two hungry beaks for CJ7 and her fish!

A close-up of a bird's nest with a chick and an adult bird, showing details of the nest's surroundings and the chick's striped feathers.

At Manton Bay, Blue 33 and Maya have a nest of almost three little reptiles as the soft down of the hatchlings gives way to that oily head and coppery feathers at the nape of the neck.

An osprey standing over its chicks in a nest, with several gray, downy chicks visible beneath its wings, set against a backdrop of water and twigs.

Dylan and Seren have three osplets and after delivering a fish at 1445 on Sunday, Dylan stayed and helped Seren feed the babies.

A pair of ospreys near their nest, with one adult bird looking down at a chick.

Two littles for Frankie and Angel at Roundhouse Loch Doon.

A bird, likely an osprey, is sitting on a nest with small chicks in a natural outdoor setting, surrounded by trees and greenery.
A nurturing osprey pair feeding their chicks in a nest at Loch Doon, surrounded by trees and a scenic landscape.

The chat at the Falconshire Bald Eagle nest remains shut down to the vulnerability of what is happening on the nest. Scout is still with us! The weather is not great, but a part of a fawn came in on Sunday morning, and Scout had a good feed. The wing is still healing.

Two young eagles standing in their nest surrounded by green leaves and trees.
Update on the bald eagle nest featuring Scout and Sunday, discussing food deliveries and recent challenges faced by the eaglets.
A dramatic scene showing young birds in a nest, one claiming a fish while another, a mature bald eagle, appears to attack nearby.

No one needs to worry about P3. The third hatch for Big Red and Arthur is doing quite well and is often right up front at meal time.

A red-tailed hawk is feeding its fluffy chicks in a nest made of twigs, surrounded by green foliage and a metal structure.

Big continues to fly and return to the nest for fish at the Achieva Credit Union.

A hawk nest with two young hawks resting inside, surrounded by sticks and twigs, set against a backdrop of trees and a residential area.

I might have missed it but I have yet to see a fish delivery to Mum and only chick at Dewey Beach. No, I didn’t. Nothing. This is going to be very sad.

An osprey sitting in its nest made of twigs and grass, with a blurred background featuring a waterfront and buildings.

A read: ‘Thirty-Two Words for Field’ by the late Manchán Magan, thanks to Emergence Magazine.

Thirty-Two Words for Field – Manchán MaganDownload

News from Usk Valley Ospreys:

https://www.uskvalleyospreys.org/news/the-expected-and-the-unexpected?fbclid=IwY2xjawSAI-hleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe5vfMeScTIcfRfreHoSKJweUVbNkYoVbkNEqsxOIX-Y_AQog-HGfc5QjpA2g_aem_KfQAUFErO4f-7cwsr1PcEQ

A look at the eggs at Loch of the Lowes: https://youtu.be/IoouZT5I7MI?

Close-up of a bird's feet with leg bands resting beside a large speckled egg and straw in a nest.

If you want to know what is going on at the US osprey nests – I will only touch on a few – then please check out the FB group Joy of Ospreys.

Hatch watch at Glaslyn for both nests!

Social media post about Glaslyn Ospreys, announcing they are on egg watch as both nests have eggs due to hatch soon.

Thank you for being with us today. It was so hot here, and it is going to get worse. I imagine that no matter where you live, you will see a change in temperatures this summer. Please leave out water for the birds – baths help to cool them off, and bowls of water offer hydration. You also need to make sure that you are getting enough hydration, too.

Got old cat or dog kibble? Birds eat it! It is a great source of protein.

See you soon!

Thank you so much to SK Hideaways and Geemeff for their diligence in sending me their weekly videos and daily summaries. I am so terribly grateful to both of them. It allows me to include much more news that I might – and I know you are wondering what is happening at all those nests! I am grateful to everyone who posts information on FaceBook whether it is a newsletter, or the latest news with a photo. Let us all thank the owners of the streaming cams who let us watch these amazing families.

2nd egg pipping for Seren and Dylan…Late Wednesday in Bird World

20 May 2026

Oh, hello everyone,

It warmed up! Mike finished the railings and will begin the small deck extension shortly. Toby and I planted beans, tomatoes, red peppers, chives, various lettuces, and rosemary. We even managed to almost finish painting a wicker plant stand for one of the lovely chartreuse ferns. It was 17 C. Ann and Don went to the zoo, where to their delight, the peacocks were really putting on quite the show. It was what I call a ‘cracker’ of a day.

‘PB’ just sent a note about Achieva. Jill went out and caught a small fish for Big to eat alone. Then she went out again and came in with a big catfish for both her and Little. She is a brilliant dedicated Mum!

A bird standing on a fish in a nest made of twigs and branches.
A bird of prey, possibly an eagle, in flight carrying a fish in its claws, with a nest made of sticks visible below.

I love the fact that these two osprey are so bonded that they remain together despite having no eggs but protecting their territory and nest for next year! It’s called ‘hope’ and we all could use a good dose of it right now!

Two ospreys sitting in their nest surrounded by greenery.
An image of an osprey couple, FS2 and Eli, at their nest, appearing attentive and engaged in their relationship despite not producing eggs this season.

Sadly, Flora’s Harry has not been seen at the Alyth Substation osprey platform since Saturday. Flora had to go and find food, and when she left their eggs, the Corvids came and ate them. It is a blessing. There are no chicks to starve, and Flora can have a summer building up her strength. Harry was very special and is a huge loss.

Blue KL5 has not returned to the Loch Garten nest for many days. He is also presumed to be lost like Harry. It has been a rough year in the UK osprey world, much different than in previous years when couples were secure and chicks hatched and fledged in a normal calm manner.

Heidi reports on the saddness coming out of Mispillion Harbour osprey platform.

An osprey sitting in its nest, which is located in a wooden structure. The nest is made of straw and has several holes. In the background, there is a grassy area.

There is cuteness at the nest of Dylan and Seren – and what a bright spot these little osplets are that are hatching!

An osprey stands next to its nest, which contains a chick and an egg, surrounded by twigs and branches in a natural setting.
An osprey is standing beside a chick in a nest, with eggs visible in the background.

So cute – turn around you silly!!!!!!!! Manton Bay with Blue 33 and Maya.

Two adult ospreys standing near their nest, which contains several chicks and an unhatched egg, set against a backdrop of water.

Iris had a little visitor from one of the nests inside her nest!

An osprey sitting in a nest surrounded by twigs and grass, with a chick beside it.
Two young osprey chicks huddled together in a nest made of twigs and pine needles.

Have you been wonderfing about the female at the Glen-Hayes nest?

A post discussing the impact of consuming a deceased eagle's remains on a mother eagle already symptomatic with avian flu, detailing biological responses and immunity challenges.
A bald eagle with wings spread, situated in its nest among green leaves and trees.

We have a fledge/fludge at Johnson City ETSU.

A collage of images from a live nest cam showing a bald eagle nest with eaglets. One eaglet is visible in the nest, while another is perched nearby. The background features trees and foliage.

Have you noticed that Monty and Hartley raise the most energetic chicks?!!!!!!!! Always getting into mischief. SK Hideaways gives us some of their latest antics in this video: https://youtu.be/GhKpFR5-4Ao?

Two falcons perched on a ledge, with a camera and a building in the background. A text box explains how falcons bob their heads to enhance depth perception.

Lady and Dad have been regularly coming to the nest tree in the Sydney Olympic Park.

A nocturnal surveillance image of a bird perched on a tree branch, surrounded by foliage, captured in black and white.
A live stream image of a sea eagle perched on a branch near its nest, surrounded by trees at dusk.

Hatch watch for Richmond and Wendy.

Close-up of a mature osprey perched on a railing, with a sharp gaze, possibly considering fishing while monitoring a nearby nest.

Gracie Shepherd shows us the latest on the fires on Santa Rosa Island where there are eagle nests with babies!

Map showing Santa Rosa Island with highlighted areas indicating wildfire impact, alongside a coastal view of the island.

What a cutie that hatched for Dylan and Seren yesterday with another nice pip in the second egg!

A bird of prey, likely an eagle or hawk, is seen in a black and white image, tending to its nest that contains eggs and a newly hatched chick.

Prey becomes comfy pillows at Big Red and Arthur’s nest in New York.

A red-tailed hawk is nesting with several chicks in a nest made of twigs on a rooftop ledge, overlooking a city street.
A red-tailed hawk sitting on a nest with several fluffy chicks, surrounded by twigs and greenery.

Aerating the eggs at Pitkin County in Colorado.

An osprey resting on its nest made of twigs and branches, with green grass and shrubs in the background.

Ann loves peacocks and this article just popped up in The Guardian!

Peacock ‘invasion’ of Italian seaside town ruffles feathershttps://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/may/16/peacock-italy-punta-marina-tensions?CMP=share_btn_url

It’s raining. The sky is grey and it is cooling off. Hoping for warm weather tomorrow! Take care everyone. We will see you again soon.

Thank you to everyone for their contributions – videos, informative posts and messages with images, authors of FB posts and the owners of the streaming cams that allow us these screen captures and a view into the life of these families.

Iris gets lots of fish…Late Monday in Bird World

19 May 2026

Hello Everyone,

‘PB’ just sent these great images of Iris leaving with a huge headless fish – the third or fourth NG2 has brought today!

A hawk flying over a parking lot, holding a fish in its talons, with another hawk perched nearby.
Two ospreys are in a nest made of branches, with one osprey appearing to take off. In the background, there is a parking lot with several cars and trees.

It remains damp and cold on the Canadian Prairies. Poor Toby has to have his feet washed every time he comes inside from running about. We have a small pond in progress, and he is drawn to the mud there!!!!!!!!! Spaniels love water. I am thinking of getting him a kiddie pool for the summer. He might not like it because he can’t swim but we will see. There are enough neighbourhood children that would enjoy the pool if Toby rejects it!

Like so many of you, I have lived a long life, one that allowed me to enjoy a time when nature was not under threat every second. Of course, we did not know then what we do now about how our behaviour was impacting the environment. What would we have done differently had we known?

There are things that I miss. We had the most magnificent Magnolia tree in our back garden and several Mimosa trees in our front garden. At the very back was a wall of bamboo at one time, later replaced by my father’s rose garden. He learned how to grow roses from his grandmother and mother – she had a huge stroll garden lined with hundreds and hundreds of rose bushes. There were Cardinals and Bluebirds that lived in those trees. I also miss the duck pond at the University of Oklahoma. I cannot tell you how many hours I spent there, joined later by my children. Whether or not it was our garden or the ponds and parks near to where I lived, there were always some kind of birds. Some were in drawers with old yellowed cardboard labels in the Sutton collection at the University. They fascinated me! It is nice when everything seems to be falling apart to sit back and recall the magic of our childhoods and how the opportunities we had impacted our lives today.

Like all of you, I have been distressed by the level of Avian Flu spreading across North America. I do not want to add to this, which means disinfecting the bird feeders and tables every 2-3 days. My plan, when the last half-bag of birdseed is finished, is to put out peanuts and those solid seed cylinders to try to avoid contamination. The bird baths and bowls of water have to be cleaned and disinfected, too. The rule is 1 part bleach to 9 parts water.

How to Clean and Disinfect

  1. Empty & Rinse: Dump out the old water and thoroughly rinse the basin.
  2. Scrub First: If there is stubborn grime or algae, scrub the bowl with hot water and a stiff brush before applying bleach.
  3. Disinfect: Pour in your 10% bleach solution. Let it sit in the basin for 10 to 15 minutes to fully kill any germs.
  4. Rinse Thoroughly: Dump out the bleach and rinse the entire bird bath completely with clean water until there are no traces of a bleach odor.
  5. Air Dry: Allow the bird bath to completely dry in the sun before refilling it with fresh water. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]

Important Tips

  • Frequency: Disinfect the bath once a week to keep it safe for your backyard birds.
  • Alternative: If you prefer not to use harsh chemicals, you can achieve the same cleaning power by using a mixture of 1 part white vinegar to 9 parts water.
  • Daily Maintenance: Change the water every day or two to prevent mosquitoes and bacteria from building up between deeper cleans.

NOTE: Do not use the brush used to clean the bird bath and water sources for any other purpose. Put it somewhere safe where no one can get to it and use it. I have been known to put these brushes in the dishwasher when I am running a cycle without any dishes to clean the machine.

I was so happy to see that Irv is serving up fish at the US Steel nest – a nest that shares the same river as the Glen-Hayes nest.

https://sportsmansparadiseonline.com/2026/05/18/maz-takes-over-stellas-fish-us-steel-nest

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Monday 18th May 2026

Another quiet day, a bit damp as rain fell in spells throughout the day, but otherwise peaceful with no alarms or intruders. Garry LV0 brought one fish for Aurora 536, taking his tally to sixty eight. Aurora stashed the remains of that fish on the nest and at the time of this report, near midnight, she is cuddled up beside it. Louis brought three fish for Dorcha and his tally is now level with Garry’s at sixty eight, with the Nest Two tally at seventy due to the two fish brought by Dorcha before his return. Louis loves spending time on incubation duty, and was moaned at by Dorcha for a good few minutes before reluctantly handing over when she returned after polishing off her second fish. Light rain is forecast all through tonight and tomorrow, with a low of 8°C and a high of 15°C.Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/b07a-dMixso N2 Louis brings a whole tiddler trout 10.02.10https://youtu.be/tQL5oriH2dQ N2 Dorcha’s second fish is a decent size 14.45.58https://youtu.be/aJ9dTcnY-nI N2 Dorcha chirrups at Louis but he won’t move 15.59.30https://youtu.be/2Vul7RV667I N1 Aurora calls and Garry brings fish 16.19.14https://youtu.be/GPQqVzFJ2bI N2 Louis happily exchanges fish for time on the eggs 18.36.52

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/at5go-cg9A8  N1 Louis’ turn to dump a stick on Aila 2019

https://youtu.be/9_X4DMti3Gk  N1 I’ve got your back: Louis, Aila, and a stick 2020

https://youtu.be/W04J7cJyYss  N1 Aila screams until Louis brings fish 2020

https://youtu.be/Z6UfoL5Hb7c  N1 Time to go – Aila head-butts Louis 2020

https://youtu.be/0vfmJaN8vG4  N2 Little bird perches next to Dorcha 2023

https://youtu.be/Epa8-yc2CKU  N1 Louis warns away a distant intruder on his old nest 2023

https://youtu.be/M2Fz6H4TedA  N2 Unringed intruder on the nest! 2023 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/vHH0SsHb-Ls  N2 Dorcha practises her ballet moves 2024

https://youtu.be/oG-WC3EAf5E N2 Air on a Sunset: glorious sunset in quicktime 2024 (Classic Ospreys: JS Bach)

https://youtu.be/3hMF9N6hYbs N1 The second fish arrives and departs in 13 seconds as Aurora watches! 2025 

https://youtu.be/EXW79QoaRtU N2 Having declined the first, Dorcha grabs the second fish 2025

I really respect Ruth, the author of Raptor Persecution UK. Gamekeepers can be rather threatening/frightening people. She is a very brave woman.

For those who love the James Herriot series set in the Yorkshire Dales, they are not all nice and cheerful just like some of the big estates in Scotland do the most horrific things to our raptors.

“Vindictive evil woman” and “Poisoned witch” to deliver free webinar on illegal raptor persecution fDownload

The loon cams are live!

2026 Loon Cams are LiveDownload

Donations are down to every wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre – including all of the dog and cat rescues. The Ventana Wildlife Society is having their major on line auction which might net you a tour of the Big Sur Condor area!

I want to add something. We praise those groups that are proactive and the Ventana Wildlife Society is no exception. 20 Condors died in Arizona from Avian Flu. The VWS set about getting permissions to vaccinate their condo. (Yes, a group of condors is called a condo!). The Ventana Wildlife Society, in partnership with the Oakland Zoo and Pinnacles National Park, vaccinated 98 wild condors (not those in zoos) from the Central California flock. 81 condors received at least the first dose, while 45 received the full two-dose series to protect against HPAI.

It was no easy feat with container cages needing to be built in a rather remote area! The determination of this small but dedicated group of individuals is admirable. It made me wonder why those who have access to chicks on streaming cams do not set about to not only band the birds but also to vaccinate them. A single dose vaccine has worked on mice and monkeys and would be ideal as it would be difficult to give the two-dose vaccine as eaglets and eyases are on the nest such a short time.

vaccines-13-00074Download

This e-mail contains all kinds of news related to what the Ventana Wildlife Society is doing.

The FULL Crop Flight of the CondorDownload

We are approaching fledge for Big at the Achieva Osprey platform in St Petersburg, Florida.

Juvenile osprey practicing hovering and wing exercises in their nest during rain.

I love Big Red and Arthur. It is so exciting to see Big Red let Arthur fully participate in family life – he has certainly earned the right. Arthur is so devoted to Big Red and their babies – the pantry is rarely empty – unless it is on purpose near fledge. I am sad that they lost one of their babies but we don’t seem to need to worry about P3 who is small but mighty.

A red-tailed hawk feeding its chicks in a nest, with another hawk nearby. The scene captures the family dynamic during dinner time.

New Guy 2 has now brought Iris three fish (so far) today! I am so glad that the rushing river calmed itself in time. Cornell Bird Lab caught one of those deliveries on video: https://youtu.be/RkGQmYEkZro?

My goodness Iris is loud when she sees NG2 arriving with a fish!

An osprey chick standing on its nest, surrounded by sticks and twigs, with a parking lot and trees in the background.
Two ospreys are seen on their nest made of sticks, with visible eggs in the nest, on a sunny day. A parking lot and trees are in the background.
An osprey delivering a fish to its nest at the Hellgate Osprey Cam, with a parking lot and greenery in the background.

I am so glad that fish did not break those precious eggs.

There are three osplets at Patuxent. Oh, my goodness. I worry about those nests.

A collage of photos showing an osprey nest with three chicks being fed. One adult osprey is seen feeding the chicks while another adult watches nearby. The nest is made of sticks and is surrounded by greenery.

The latest statement that I have found about the Glen-Hayes eaglets and whether or not the eaglet bodies will be retrieved:

“May 18, 2026 – GLEN HAZEL NEST STATUS

Status Update: Carol Holmgren, Executive Director, Tamarack Wildlife Center

Our hearts go out to all who love these eagles and are grieving. We have been blessed with 100% survivorship of eaglets from the Hays/Glen Hazel eagle nests over the past 14 years, while it is typical for 30% of eaglets to not survive until fledging age.

Kudos to the Glen Hazel moderator team for promptly noticing signs of illness in the chicks and notifying Tamarack Wildlife Center’s Executive Director and Licensed Rehabilitator Carol Holmgren on Friday morning, May 15. Carol immediately reached out to Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) and Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) colleagues, to loop them in that day, and has been in conversation since then. A few updates:

  • It is FWS policy to let nature take its course at eagle’s nests and only approve intervention when there is a threat to the eagles that has a clear human cause such as fishing line entanglement or swallowing a fish hook. In this instance, the eaglets were ill, but not with a clear human cause where FWS and PGC would approve intervention. Much as that is difficult for us to witness, it is part of the natural history that eagles live with daily.
  • The eaglets likely passed from Avian Influenza. Their symptoms and the progression of the illness is consistent with Avian Influenza, and they could have contracted it from ingesting goslings and geese that had been brought to the nest as food. We cannot know for certain without testing, but this is the most likely cause based on the evidence.
  • The adults may also have been exposed to the virus. They typically have a stronger immune system than the young birds, and may be able to fight off the virus. Time will tell. We will be monitoring them. There is no treatment that can be given while they are free-flying. If one is on the ground due to illness, it may be able to be treated by a rehabilitator.
  • Our hope is that their immune systems are strong and they can remain healthy.
  • Our highest concerns at this point are 1. supporting the health of the remaining adult eagles and 2. caring for the moderators and community who love these eagles.
  • Now that the two eaglets have passed, PGC has had extensive discussions about the risks vs benefits of accessing the nest to retrieve the now two deceased eaglets. They have decided not to pursue retrieval, in part to not stress the adult eagles through human presence at the nest.
  • There is no practical benefit to confirming that the eaglets succumbed to Avian Influenza, beyond the human desire to know. The disease is known to be endemic in Pennsylvania now and there are no management actions that would be taken with that information.
  • Due to the regulations and Acts protecting eagles and their nests, any access to the nest would also require both PGC and FWS support.
  • PGC will be continuing to monitor the situation. If an eaglet should fall to the ground, they may pursue retrieval and testing since stress on the adult birds would be less, and FWS approval would not be needed.

Below is the full statement shared by our colleagues in PGC today. We appreciate the thoughtfulness with which they have considered this situation, and their continued collaboration.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) appreciates the concerns of the public regarding the eagles in the Glen Hazel Eagle Nest Cam, located in Allegheny County.

Wildlife watching opportunities, especially ones that can occur from anywhere thanks to wildlife cameras and digital technology, are a popular way for the public to learn and love wildlife.

Unfortunately, nature can be hard to watch at times. When situations occur on live wildlife webcams, including this eagle’s nest, human intervention is not always recommended or possible.

PGC evaluated the situation carefully and considered many factors including human safety and exposure to potential pathogens. Additionally, human intervention could further stress the adult eagles. Any actions must also comply with federal regulations related to the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. At this time, we have chosen to not intervene. If a safer opportunity presents itself in the future, we may pursue disease testing to hopefully determine what caused the death of these eaglets.”

I ‘love’ Blue 33 and Maya and I am so glad that the three little bobbleheads are doing so well. Those blue eyes and that light soft taupe down with their lovely back stripe and that black eye-liner. They are so precious….all babies are so cute but I do love the tiny little osplets before they hit the reptile stage!

An osprey nest with three chicks and two adult ospreys, one feeding the chicks. The nest is made of twigs and contains some greenery. The background features water.
Close-up of an osprey nest with four chicks and two eggs, surrounded by twigs and overlooking water.
A close-up of two adult ospreys attending to three chicks in their nest, with a body of water in the background.
An osprey stands near its nest, looking at two fluffy, gray chicks nestled on a bed of twigs and leaves. The background features water, hinting at the location's natural habitat.

The Girls got their favourite crunchy treats while Toby needed a new Little Lamb. These little squeaky toys were his first and to this day, some 15 months later, they remain favourites. This one is getting ready to celebrate Canada Day on 1 July.

A dog playing with a plush sheep toy, featuring red-checked mittens, on a soft blanket.

Thank you so much for being with us. We wish you peace and calm.

A close-up view of a decorative statue of a seated figure adorned with colorful beads and necklaces, featuring a small bird figurine beside it. The statue has intricate details, and there is a ceramic vase in the foreground.

Thank you to Geemeff for her extensive report on all things Loch Arkaig, to ‘PB’ for her great images and notes, to all those who posted information and videos on FB or YouTube keeping us informed of the latest happenings at the nests, and to the owners of the streaming cams, we are so very grateful to be able to share the lives of these amazing Avian families.

2nd hatch at Manton Bay…Late Thursday in Bird World

15 May 2026

Hello Everyone,

It is Thursday evening, and Toby and I are having our ‘quiet’ time. Thursday was a busy day working in the garden. We are so excited about planting the flowers and veggies this weekend! Our neighbour has finished the longest railing for the deck, and we will be looking for over-the-rail planters for shade flowers. The colour will be ‘red’ this year!

Unless something dramatic happens, I will take at least a day off to plant and enjoy being outside instead of checking the screens. I urge you to do the same!

Not wanting to start any rumours, but where are the fish for our Iris? There is some concern about the whereabouts of New Guy2 at Hellgate Canyon. Is he around? Is he bringing fish? A piece of a fish was brought in by a male, but was it NG2? All I will say is that if these males are going to fail Iris, then do it before the eggs hatch. Crap. I desperately want to be wrong about this – just like I thought P3 was sick. It isn’t, thank goodness. Maybe just sleepy and in a food coma????

The second egg has hatched for Maya and Blue 33 at Rutland’s Manton Bay nest! Congratulations.

A close-up view of a bird's nest containing several eggs and newly hatched chicks, surrounded by twigs and grass.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Thursday 14th May 2026The forecasted rain held off, just the occasional shower, and nest life went on uneventfully today, no intruders or alarms. Louis delivered two fish to Dorcha, taking the Nest Two tally to sixty one, and Garry LV0 brought one fish taking the Nest One tally to sixty three. Aurora 536 made that one fish last a very long time, and it travelled a fair bit too. There was much discussion around eggs, chick hierarchy, fostering and survival rates. WTS George reposted his comment 

around expectations and the challenges of nest cam watching, link in the bonus section. Tonight’s forecast is partly cloudy and light winds with a low of 3°C, continuing tomorrow with light cloud, gentle breezes and a high of 12°C.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/cUs6bSMpe4g N2 Dorcha calls enthusiastically as Louis lands with the first fish 11.17.48 

https://youtu.be/0F29q35-vd0 N1 Garry LV0 finally brings a fish late in the day 15.10.35 

https://youtu.be/BFJs2_2Iqog N2 Louis lands with fish number two, a headless trout 20.09.42 

Bonus read – the highs and lows of nest cam watching:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam/?ht-comment-id=33998383

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/FlMmlJjYav0  N1 Aila’s attacked again by an owl 2019

https://youtu.be/a82-7I-dU0A  N1 Musical nests: Aila & Louis hop on and off the nest 2020

https://youtu.be/d-HM-pAELtE  N1 Sleepy Aila manages an afternoon nap 2020

https://youtu.be/UQsvtAT9sAI  N1 Blue 152 pays a dawn visit to the nest 2021

https://youtu.be/V1vbOK3ewwc  N1 The Newsome Twosome are getting better at it! 2021

https://youtu.be/zsPVChFoZ88  N2 Dorcha and the big stick 2023

https://youtu.be/j4RTRS0Yni8  N2 Intruder Blue PU0 invades Nest Two 2023

https://youtu.be/bSxkqptK4Eg  N1 Louis mantles at an unseen intruder 2023

https://youtu.be/B_R0BHuZaZg  N1 Is it a Tree Pipit dashing across the cam view 2024

https://youtu.be/WPtsG8MRD6k  N2 Does an egg move by itself? 2024 

https://youtu.be/o_ES4CRH3LM N1 A male Tawny Owl visits 2025

https://youtu.be/xZrjpYMESsU N2 A Jay (Garrulus Glandarius) pays a visit to Dorcha 2025 (zoom)

https://youtu.be/lzo2elmyrE8 N1 A Great Spotted Woodpecker pays a flying visit 2025 (zoom)

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

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

Big Red and Arthur’s chicks are fine. https://youtu.be/C5XbJkZD5Zw?

A red-tailed hawk parent watches over two fluffy chicks in a nest made of twigs and grass.

You don’t see it very often, but Arthur got to feed his babies. Arthur would love to care more for his children, but Big Red can be very bossy in that regard! He’s rather good at this! https://youtu.be/KEBghI2Yml0?

A red-tailed hawk feeding its chicks in a nest filled with twigs and feathers. Several fluffy chicks are visible, eagerly interacting with the parent bird.

SK Hideaways has the video of Monty and Hartley’s foursome being banded. Have a look. https://youtu.be/xAj20H9x1OI?

Smile. An osprey saved.

Text post from NorthWestern Energy discussing the successful rescue of an osprey tangled in baling twine with the help of local wildlife organizations.
A person holding an Osprey, showing the bird's features and its foot for banding.

Fish continue to come to Achieva. Jack is doing well! Keep it going.

A close-up view of a bird's nest containing two young hawks perched on a pile of twigs and branches. The nest is situated on a platform high above a neighborhood with trees and a street visible in the background.
A nest with young birds perched on a large nest made of twigs, overlooking a suburban area with houses and trees, under a clear blue sky.

Thank you so much for being with us for this quick check-in. It is very windy outside, and we are in a ‘yellow’ warning – it is a huge dust storm! The temperatures are still warm – 23 C.

Take care of yourself. Go outside for a walk. Listen for the soothing sound of a bird singing.

Thank you to Geemeff for their always outstanding Loch Arkaig summary, to SK Hideaways for the great videos, to all those who post on FB with recent news and videos, and to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to witness the lives of our favourite raptor families.

P3 is fine…

14 May 2026

Good Morning.

Updates:

Pip – a really good effort going on – in the second egg go blue 33 and Maya at Rutland Water.

P3 gave us quite the fright yesterday. Must have really been in a food coma – or tired. Up and getting bites this morning at the Cornell nest of Big Red and Arthur.

A red-tailed hawk tending to three chicks in a nest made of twigs and branches. The nest is situated on a rooftop or elevated structure.

White-tailed Eagles to be released in Exmoor National Park in the UK next year.

White-tailed Eagles to be released in Exmoor National Park this year – Raptor Persecution UKDownload

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Wednesday 13th May 2026

Today was back to routine, quiet and calm with no intruders to shatter the tranquility. Louis and Garry LV0 brought two fish each for their respective partners Dorcha and Aurora 536, the Nest Two tally now stands at fifty nine, and the Nest One at sixty two.The weather was mainly settled, just a little light rain occasionally during the day, but more is forecast for tonight with drizzle and light winds and an overnight low of 5°C, continuing through tomorrow with light rain showers, a gentle breeze and a high of 12°C. The weather shouldn’t affect the males’ fishing abilities, and if you missed Steve Quinn’s fish count update posted on Monday, just pop Nest 2 fish count update to week 3 (8th May): into the search bar (click on the tiny magnifying glass symbol on the right above the pinned comment) for some interesting facts and comparison with previous years. We learned a little more about intruder Blue 2B8, she is female, eldest of a clutch of three female 2023 Kielder chicks with an English mother and very likely a Scottish father as although his Darvic ring has been lost, his BTO ring is on his right leg. No further sightings of local lad JJ4, there was some light hearted speculation that it would be nice if he and 2B6 paired up together somewhere not close enough to be a threat to either of the Arkaig pairs.   

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/DR6xA_XoPcI N2 Dorcha’s fresh breakfast nearly flaps off the nest 05.27.15

https://youtu.be/Cm3EZRB5R38 N1 Garry feaks his beak after Aurora leaves with the first fish of the day 12.46.31

https://youtu.be/tsLF7_dy0I4 N1 Garry LV0 watches Aurora 536 fly past with her fish 17.19.36

https://youtu.be/kHzyTg5L4mM N2 Louis is already settling down to egg duty before Dorcha departs 19.12.47

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/YlOAPDKh6W8  N1 Aila’s seen silhouetted in the distance 2020

https://youtu.be/pMiyJCRoAEQ  N1 Sleepy Aila nods off 2020

https://youtu.be/PuDXOSzgDgg  N1 Aila employs the kitchen sink approach to remove Louis 2020 

https://youtu.be/qC_j3fiHG6o  N1 Aila practises her head-bashing technique on Louis 2020 

https://youtu.be/FSF6fiwMDvs  N1 Slightly better mating attempt by the newsome twosome 2021

https://youtu.be/xcAoRU34zcg  N2 Duh! Dorcha drops her breakfast 2022

https://youtu.be/b_Zd5jXoyQA  N2 Louis makes an unorthodox exit 2022

https://youtu.be/LjPue1ITRe4  N2 

Dorcha’s subtle nudge for Louis 2023https://youtu.be/03Te8ZCOfEY N2 Dorcha shows off her huge wings 2024 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/ULnmZa5llbQ N2 Dorcha’s almost invisible unlike the swarm of insects 2024https://youtu.be/2me6yQ_9Z3U N2 Dorcha appears to be enveloped in a spider’s web 2025https://youtu.be/KK6Os6NapSU N2 Louis’ second delivery is such a whopper Dorcha can hardly lift it 2025

https://youtu.be/p5BSaJvk1L0 N1 Flying sticks! A windy afternoon for Garry & Aurora 2025

You’re invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum – all levels of knowledge welcome!

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

News from Kielder Forest:

Intruder news

Thanks everyone. Have a great day. I just wanted you to know that P3 is doing well. Take care. See you soon!

Thank you to all of the owners of the streaming cams, for those that post announcements about their nests, for those that post on FB, and to Geemeff for their daily summary of all things Loch Arkaig.

Is P3 sick and dying…Wednesday in Bird World

13 May 2026

Hello Everyone,

Most recent news. There is concern about P3 at Cornell who appears lethargic. Send positive wishes, please. I fear we are losing P3.

The four chicks of Monty and Hartley were ringed this morning and determined to all be males. This is going to be fun!!!!!!!!!

It was 14 C on Tuesday. What a glorious day! Ann took Don and Toby for a long walk along the river path near us. Toby was super tired after! We went for another walk after dinner. It was so nice. The first Rose-breasted Grosbeak was in our garden today. I could only see a single male. It arrived around 1230 and was still here at 2030 foraging on the ground under the lilacs.

All about Birds says:

Rose-breasted Grosbeaks breed in moist deciduous forests, deciduous-coniferous forests, thickets, and semiopen habitats across the northeastern United States, ranging into southeastern and central Canada. They gravitate toward second-growth woods, suburban areas, parks, gardens, and orchards, as well as shrubby forest edges next to streams, ponds, marshes, roads, or pastures. During migration, grosbeaks stop in a wide variety of habitats including primary and secondary forest, wet and dry forest, shrub thickets, pine woods, shrubby dune ridges, scrub, urban areas, and wetlands. They spend the winter in forests and semiopen habitats in Central and South America, often in middle elevations and highlands (up to about 11,000 feet in Colombia).

During the breeding season Rose-breasted Grosbeaks eat a lot of insects, as well as wild fruit and seeds. They mostly feed on berries during fall migration, and on their wintering grounds they have a varied diet of invertebrates and plant material. Grosbeaks usually glean their food from dense foliage and branches. They also snag food while hovering, and sometimes fly out to hawk for insects in midair. The animal portion of their diet includes beetles, bees, ants, sawflies, bugs, butterflies, and moths. Their vegetarian fare includes elderberries, blackberries, raspberries, mulberries, juneberries, and seeds of smartweed, pigweed, foxtail, milkweed, plus sunflower seeds, garden peas, oats, wheat, tree flowers, tree buds, and cultivated fruit.

The male may help the female choose a nest site, which is usually in a vertical fork or crotch of a sapling. Nesting plants include maple, red-berried elder, balsam fir, eastern hemlock, and spruce, and may be in wet or dry areas. They are usually in forest openings, overgrown field edges, old pastures, shrubby roads, railroad rights-of-way, gardens, parks, or residential areas. The male and female each may test the nest site’s suitability by settling into it and turning around several times.

Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are common forest birds, but their populations experienced a slow decline from 1966 to 2019, according to the North American Breeding Bird Survey. Partners in Flight estimates a global breeding population of 4.7 million and rates them 11 out of 20 on the Continental Concern Score, indicating a species of relatively low conservation concern. These birds nest in saplings, so numbers could be dropping as forests mature over the eastern United States. Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are commonly trapped for sale as cage birds in their wintering range because they look and sound pretty, and this has had an unknown impact on their population.

A colorful bird with a black head, white wings, and a red chest, perched on a branch.

Image credit: “Rose-breasted grosbeak male” by Doug Greenberg is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0.

As always, I thank you for your lovely notes and for sharing your personal stories with me. I love hearing about your walks and the encounters with birds living near you! Please don’t stop. I never get tired of reading about wildlife – never. All the creatures of my garden – and our planet – bring me great delight as I know they do you.

We have had a very calm few days. There is nothing nicer. Don seemed to be building up to ‘something’, and Friday morning, his anxiety got the best of him. (I am fine). Individuals with dementia do not lose memories like those with Alzheimer’s, but they have a slower processing time, which shows up as difficulty in communicating. His psychiatrist increased his anti-anxiety medication by 50%, and it was as if a miracle had happened. On Saturday, he said to me, ‘Don’t let the bad break us.’ I certainly won’t. My neighbour, who is finishing up some rails on the deck, said today he would have given up long ago, adding that I was ‘one tough cookie’. It made me smile.

If you are dealing with someone with dementia, make sure that routines are simple and followed every day and that there is ‘calm’. I cannot emphasise the latter enough. Quiet music in the background, walks outside – it doesn’t have to be anywhere exotic, and positive support.

Typically, in our part of Canada, gardens are now started on or after the May Long Weekend, which is also Victoria Day, in celebration of Queen Victoria’s birthday. That is this weekend. Each year, we choose a colour, making certain that we have something ‘red’ for the hummingbirds. Don decided that red would be a good overall colour after I came home with some red Gerber Daisies today to put in an old French jardiniere.

Our weather is very hot and there could be issues with wild fires starting. This is quite bad for the wildlife. We are waiting for the ducklings and goslings to hatch.

Map showing weather conditions in Southwestern Manitoba, indicating crossover weather with temperatures exceeding 20°C and low relative humidity, highlighting fire risks.

So what is going on in Bird World?

The first hatch for Maya and Blue 33 at Manton Bay is VERY strong! Head held high demanding food!

A baby bird with its mouth open is being fed by an adult bird, with eggs in a nest made of straw and twigs.

This does not look good. Well, as I said, there is concern about P3 at the nest of Big Red and Arthur. This is very sad. I do not believe she has ever had a chick die as a nestling before this year, and I honestly do not think P3 is going to make it. We lost another chick during hatching this year. P1 and P2 look great.

A red-tailed hawk chick sitting in a nest surrounded by twigs and grass, with an adult hawk nearby, feeding or caring for the chick.

Glaslyn females visiting other nests when they take breaks.

Facebook post from Glaslyn Wildlife about a visitor at the Ospreys Pont Croesor nest, mentioning Aran's new mate Blue 7C1.
A pair of ospreys standing on a nest made of sticks, with one osprey preparing to take off while the other is looking around. The background features green hills and a blue sky.

Another US osprey nest failure at Sun Coast with the death of the osplet.

It is absolutely insance to poison wildlife.

A social media post from Women for Wolves urging action against the use of M-44 cyanide bombs on public lands, highlighting their dangers to wildlife, pets, and humans.
A close-up of a gray wolf with a serious expression, surrounded by blurred images of other wolves in the background. Overlaid text advocates to block cyanide bombs on BLM lands, with a smaller inset showing a cyanide bomb.

Another great video from SK Hideaways of Sandy and Luna doing beaky kisses: https://youtu.be/8p8GKklfutw?

And Monty and Hartley’s kids out of the box! Chaos reigns. https://youtu.be/lpnLXUv1DfY?

That’s it for today. The weather is too good not to be outside. Take care everyone. See you soon.

Thank you to ‘PB’ for keeping me posted on nests including P3. Thank you to SK Hideaways for their videos and for those who post on FB about recent nest happenings. I am grateful to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to view the good, the bad, and the sad.

Late Tuesday in Bird World

12 May 2026

Greetings Everyone,

The sky is a gorgeous blue with a few little tiny cottonball clouds floating about. It was grey and cold earlier and to end the day with beautiful sunshine is a real blessing.

We have the first hatch at Rutland Manton’s Bay:

An osprey nest with an egg visible, amidst straw and grass. The nest appears to be active, suggesting potential hatching.

I am also happy to say that thanks to Kathryn we continue to know the goings on of one of my favourite Welsh ospreys, Aran, and his new mate.

A Facebook post discussing the bonding behaviors and nesting activities of two birds, Aran and 7C1, with insights into their relationship and nesting progress.
A blurry image of a bird sitting in tall grass, possibly an osprey, with out-of-focus background elements.

Cornell Bird Lab is doing a great job of producing short videos of Big Red and her chicks.

A red-tailed hawk is feeding its chicks in a nest made of twigs, perched on a ledge with a view of a street and blooming flowers in the background.
Close-up of fluffy red-tailed hawk chicks in a nest during feeding, surrounded by nest material and remnants of prey.

Those sweet babies are poking their heads out from under Mum: https://youtu.be/BUq6_AoCHcM?

A red-tailed hawk sitting in a nest with its chicks, surrounded by twigs and remnants of prey.
A hawk caring for its chicks in a nest filled with feathers, twigs, and remnants of prey.

We are a few days away from fledge at the Venice Golf and Country Club osprey platform. Chicks hatched on 20, 21, and 23 March.

An osprey delivering a fish to its nest, where three young ospreys are waiting. The background features a serene river and grassy area with a golf course.

I don’t know what has gotten into Jack at Achieva but he is being much more helpful to Jill in bringing in fish as of late.

It has been almost like a tag team, with Jill bringing in a fish and Jack coming in a few minutes later with another. It sure helps. Jill can feed herself, and Little and Big can work on the self-feeding she is getting so good at.

A hawk standing in a nest with two chicks, surrounded by greenery and a neighborhood street in the background.
A close-up view of an osprey nest containing two chicks and an adult osprey, situated on a platform surrounded by trees with a street and houses visible in the background.
Two young ospreys resting in their nest, surrounded by twigs and branches, with a view of a residential area and street in the background.
Two hawks sitting in a nest made of twigs, surrounded by green trees and a view of a suburban street in the background.
A hawk standing in its nest, surrounded by sticks and twigs, with a view of trees and houses in the background.

It rained at Achieva and it looks like Jack came in with a late fish. Maybe Diane will not need to go fishing tonight.

An osprey nest with three chicks sitting on it, surrounded by greenery and a view of a street in the background.

I have waited to send this so that I could include Geemeff’s summary from Loch Arkaig and here it is:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Tuesday 12th May 2026Today was mostly peaceful on both nests, barring an intruder alert near Nest One, and an intruder Osprey actually landing on Nest Two. While Louis and Dorcha were most unhappy and furiously chased the intruder away, the watchers were pleased to solve a mystery as this intruder had visited twice before but his Darvic ring could not be read. Today however he positioned himself just long enough to see that he is Blue 2B6, hatched 2023 in Kielder, and not Blue 286 hatched 2019 in Cumbria. There’s still a slight mystery about this bird as it was initially thought to be female, but now tending towards the possibility of being male. Whichever is correct, we wish Blue 2B6 success at finding a nest and a mate but preferably away from the two Arkaig nests as hatching day comes closer. Louis brought one fish for Dorcha taking the Nest Two tally to fifty seven, and Garry LV0 brought two fish for Aurora 536 taking the Nest One tally to sixty.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/LMm-Ym7k-9o N2 Louis brings a late breakfast for Dorcha 09.13.56    

https://youtu.be/8rgRxYfzIPw  N1 Elevenses for Aurora as the first fish arrives 11.30.54

https://youtu.be/1gEJDnZZ0J0 N2 Kielder Blue 2B6 intrudes on Louis & Dorcha 12.03.21 (long version)

https://youtu.be/QCKUhrpKiDE N2  Kielder Blue 2B6 intrudes on Louis & Dorcha 12.04.44 (short version with zoom)

https://youtu.be/PgLpYD-3Voo N1 Fish supper for Aurora when Garry delivers a second fish 21.34.15

Bonus read: It’s Plant Health Week and Woodland Trust are celebrating their UK and Ireland Sourced and Grown scheme:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/plant-health-week-2026-ugcPost-7459905242101477377-V-Hk

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/BFfBZitcjv0    N1 Haven’t you forgotten something? 2020

https://youtu.be/_rGpAZaTjmQ N1 Oops! Where’s it gone? Aila loses her fish! 2020

https://youtu.be/7fjub6AqXts  N1 Stickgate! Louis lands a stick on top of Aila then perches on it! 2020

https://youtu.be/x9ltb4rsX-w   N1 The Stranger nestorises while Blue 152 calls for fish 2021

https://youtu.be/Kdo-dxeZv3Y  N1 That technique needs work! Amusing mating incident 2021

https://youtu.be/Avbi8BbEvC4  N2 Intruder Osprey flyover 2023

https://youtu.be/bLMSoIgb1Yc   N2 Another year, another stickgate!! 2023

https://youtu.be/IR7bJxY7AsE  N2 Louis brings a fine flapping trout 2024

https://youtu.be/0bNLIxCelsw N1 Female Chaffinch visits 2024 (zoom)https://youtu.be/AImTtGwHR64 N1 Aurora gets Garry’s fish the second time he brings it 2025https://youtu.be/PwjwvCqeWYg N2 Louis & Dorcha join forces to see off an intruder overhead 2025

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

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

Heidi is reporting that it is pip watch starting tomorrow at Dewey Beach.

An osprey perched on its nest by the water, with another osprey in flight nearby, showcasing a natural habitat scene.

Saving Monarchs reminds us:

A graphic highlighting the annual death of 67 million birds due to pesticide poisoning. The top section states the statistic, while the bottom features images of a Northern Flicker, Eastern Towhee, and Brown Thrasher, alongside messages about the dangers of spraying pesticides in neighborhoods and promoting pollinator-friendly practices.

White-tail Eagle couple Loki and Caitir in Scotland lose chick – adults mourn. Thanks, Terry Carr: https://youtu.be/7hXAxFI30U0?

‘J’ sent the nature chat.org’s banner:

1 of the 5 eggs hatched in the wee hours of last night at Peregrine Falcon Cam in New Jersey, with a possible pip on another egg.

3rd egg of buzzards hatched today at Lesser Spotted Eagle Cam in Latvia 1.

Pip watch for 1st egg begins today at Osprey Cam in Pennsylvania.

Thank you for being with us today. It is time to take Toby for a last walk before bed. Tomorrow he has his first annual check up. Wish us luck! Take care all. We will see you soon.

Nitey-nite from Toby wearing his new halter. He loves orange!

I will try and get some good images of The Girls this weekend for you. I feel like I have neglected them.

A sleeping dog wearing an orange harness, resting on a patterned blanket.

Thank you to Geemeff, Heidi, and PB for their notes and news, to the owners of the streaming cams, the authors of the FB posts – we are so ever grateful for the time and dedication you take in providing us with news and views of our favourite raptor families.

Pip at Manton Bay for Blue 33 and Maya…late Monday in Bird World

11 May 2026

Greetings Everyone,

It was a very sad day in the garden today.

We wake up, and over our morning cuppa, we count the animals at the feeders. There are always four grey squirrels, one red squirrel, two Blue Jays, and two Crows. The number of Starlings, Sparrows, Juncos, and others varies during the day. But, for two days, there have only been three grey squirrels. Thankfully, the elderly Dyson, the matriarch of all the grey squirrels, is one of those. But where is the other one?

On our walk with Toby, we passed by the house that had burned down at the corner some time ago. There on the boulevard was the grey squirrel. It had no visible signs of being hit by a car, and there were no wires for it to fall from its position. A friend of Don’s was here for lunch, and we determined with some minor science that it had probably been poisoned. Its body was brought back to the garden where it had played in the lilacs and filled its belly for several years with peanuts. I buried it between two trees. Will find a beautiful stone to sit on top – incense lifted its spirit into the wind.

My concern now turns to who is using rodenticide and why. Yes, there are mice. Most of us feed the birds, and where there is seed, there are mice. I have been told that using only Black Oil Seed and peanuts will not attract the mice as the grains do. The Crows and the Hawks catch mice; we don’t have to do anything. Owls, of course, are another great way to rid an area of rats and mice. But with rodenticide use, nothing is safe. What if the Crows had eaten the carcass? Or a pet dog? Toby? One of the feral cats? Brock? It makes my mind go crazy thinking about poisoning our world.

Luckily, our lovely company kept my mind off of rodenticide and I needed to check the ospreys while Don was busy with his friend.

I had a look, and, surprise, surprise, there is the first UK pip at Maya and Blue 33’s nest at Rutland’s Manton Bay!

It is such a deep nest. We need an overhead cam!!!!!!!!!

A close-up of a large bird's nest made of twigs and branches, set against a river landscape with trees and a cloudy sky above.

All is well with the trio at Big Red and Arthur’s Red-tail Hawk nest on the Cornell Campus. Yes, P3 is being fed!!!!!!!!!!!! No one is left out. We are too conditioned by the osprey and eagle nests!!!!!!!! Hawks and Falcons are notorious for making sure everyone is fed. There is no shortage of prey.

A red-tailed hawk perched on a nest with several fluffy chicks. The nest is made of twigs and is situated on a balcony or ledge, with greenery and a street visible in the background.

Cornell Bird Lab has one of Monday’s feedings on video! https://youtu.be/tveeiZRM8r4?

The first failed osprey nest in Maryland was in Severna Park. Was it before those failing in Virginia? It is not clear. I am receiving notes today that several other nests where Omega Protein fishes a mile off the coast of Nassawadox Creek are seeing the adults abandon their eggs. Nassawadox Creek is a tidal waterway in Northampton County, Virginia, on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay. There will be more, and we must prepare ourselves. If you have not figured it out, the decline in osprey numbers is worse than the DDT crisis of the 1970s. Someone needs to do something about this!

Sad news coming out of Scotland over the use of an illegal trap.

Sparrowhawk euthanised in Scottish Highlands after illegal trap caused ‘catastrophic’ leg injury – RDownload

Border Ospreys is live and you can watch Samson and Augusta!

WE ARE LIVEDownload

There is really great news coming out of Glaslyn. Aran and Elen’s two year old chick has touched down for all to see! What a wonderful migration and so happy that one of their babies has been seen in Wales.

Facebook post from Dyfi Osprey Project discussing the Osprey 6M9, the youngest member of the 2024 Glaslyn brood, and its recent behavior.
Close-up of a bird perched on a green pipe, with another bird in the background on a wooden branch.

This is a reason to ring every osplet on every osprey nest – which is attempted in the UK but not in North America.

Everything is going well at Achieva Osprey Platform.

Social media post discussing fishing experiences by Pam Breci, detailing the catches by Jack and Jill, including ladyfish and catfish.
A collage of images showing an osprey nest with two chicks and an adult bird. One adult is seen flying near the nest, while the chicks are perched inside, surrounded by twigs and foliage.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Monday 11th May 2026

Another routine day, it started and ended with a little rain, and in between were lots of fish deliveries – both males brought three fish each, although one of Louis’ was so tiny, it needed a close up to see it was actually a whole fish and not just a scrap, and Garry LV0 also brought a tiny fish – his was still flapping. The Nest Two tally rises to fifty six, and Garry’s rises to fifty eight. It’s great to see both males supplying a steady stream of fish as hatching day starts getting nearer when it will be paramount. As the day ends, Dorcha and Aurora 536 are tucked up sitting on eggs on their respective nests, protecting them from the sporadic light rain which is set to continue through the night and most of tomorrow, with an overnight low of 6°c and a high of 13°c tomorrow afternoon.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/OZXF99LjQ3Y N2 Breakfast arrives, headless trout 07.11.55

https://youtu.be/IzUaE12sGWA N1 Fresh flapping fish for Aurora 13.53.35

https://youtu.be/WVa1ZepkIzE N2 Dorcha’s very happy to see a second fish arriving 14.51.02

https://youtu.be/Ddut0wN0hRQ N1 Aurora demolishes fish two and returns to egg-sit 16.23.02

https://youtu.be/9aExCQ6TCjc N1 Aurora tugs the third fish away from Garry 18.41.13

https://youtu.be/rE6rVOwW4XU N2 Dorcha nibbles the tiny third fish before leaving with it 21.00.33

Blast from the past, this day in previous years:

https://youtu.be/IhjvqpMq1S4   N1 Intruder Osprey flies right over the nest 2020 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/WW7IBGOOjLU  N1 Preparing the nest ready for the first hatch 2020

https://youtu.be/-v6-w-_3oDM   N1 Aila does a mid air transfer 2020 (slo-mo)

https://youtu.be/BsF44kBqGG0  N1 A close shave for Louis – Aila nearly takes his head off! 2020

https://youtu.be/wqUvCjMwwio  N1 Mumbrella: Aila protects her eggs during snow flurries 2020

https://youtu.be/yZkcVaa9o-A   N1 Affric (Blue 152) and The Stranger return 2021

https://youtu.be/UiJihpt7uEs  N2 Dorcha ignores the second fish and leaves without it 2023

https://youtu.be/fwGRG7NNI4o  N1 A Jay visits 2024

https://youtu.be/_xdZMQaEYA4  N2 Very late breakfast – fish number one 2024

https://youtu.be/L7wUZ2nkFqk  N1 Dawn tryst – successful mating for Garry and Aurora 2025

https://youtu.be/XEuoQfpCuVM N2 Dorcha leaves with fish number two in a beak-hold 2025

Everyone’s welcome at the Woodland Trust Osprey forum, whatever your level of Osprey knowledge – come and join our lively community:

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

Virus-free.www.avast.com

There is so much going on. Iris’s new mate kept her company at the nest. This lad really does like to incubate, but I wish he would fish a bit more!

Two ospreys perched on a large nest made of sticks, overlooking a parking lot and landscaped area in the background.
An osprey sitting in its nest made of twigs, overlooking a parking lot with trees and a train passing in the background.

I love Iris and New Guy 2 watching their trains!

Thank you so much for being with me this evening. Take care! See you soon.

The two besties – Toby and Hugo Yugo – wish you a great week.

A sleeping orange tabby cat curled up on a cat tree, next to a black and white Cavalier King Charles Spaniel wearing an orange harness, both resting indoors.

Thank you to Geemeff for all things Loch Arkaig, to ‘PB’ and Heidi for counting and identifying fish, to everyone who posts on FB with images and news updates, to Raptor Persecution for always reporting what is truly going on without any prejudice, and to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to watch these amazing families.

First egg at UK Osprey platform

5 April 2026

Good Afternoon Everyone,

First. A reminder if you haven’t already marked it on your calendar. Iris’s favourite day to return to Missoula is 7 April. We are less than 48 hours away.

They are returning from migration but the osprey season officially kicked off today (IMHO) with the arrival of the first egg.

It was Maya (unringed) and Blue 33’s first egg of 2026 and it happened around 1805.

Close-up view of an osprey in its nest made of twigs and branches, with a water backdrop.

Blue 33 flies in to have a good look.

A bird, possibly an osprey, is seen in a nest made of twigs and branches, near a body of water. The setting is peaceful and natural.

There are two cameras. The rails are so high on the nest this year we might only see little heads for some time.

Wide-angle view of Manton Bay with an osprey nest made of twigs in the foreground, surrounded by water and a blue sky with clouds.

On the Canadian prairies, it was raining and then it started snowing a bit and everything is brown and grey. No beautiful sunshine. Toby was so filthy from our walk that he had another bath – he is so good in the tub. Tomorrow he will have a mobile nail trimmer arrive to shorten those claws. In the meantime, it is damp to the bone weather here in Winnipeg. I hope it is much nicer where you are.

Check out the darling bobble heads at Big Bear and Achieva. Wink has brought in a huge fish to share with Peanut, who has repeatedly defended itself and the nest against that persistent owl. Storks are returning to Europe. One was on the nest at Mlady Buky the last time I checked. Remember, Milda is on eggs, and by the end of the month, I hope to see the cutest little white-tailed eaglets on that nest in Latvia. Fort St Vrain has a second hatch happening with pip watch on the third and only egg remaining (first two broke) going on for the ND-LEEF eagles in South Bend, Indiana.

FSV56 looking at Mum. What a beautiful sight.

A bald eagle tending to its nest, with a chick visible, surrounded by sticks and straw.

Take care everyone. See you soon!

Thank you to the owners of the streaming cams – without them we would not be able to look into the lives of these birds and witness these little bobblehead miracles!