Tag Archives: Ospreys

Remembering Iniko…Late Friday in Bird World

10 July 2026

Hello Everyone,

It is hot, but it is beautiful. We ate our breakfast in the conservatory instead of outside because the Starling family was having a good old bath. Now, according to Cornell, I should not have European Starlings in my garden this time of year. As a result, I made sure to take at least one image to post as proof! This year, we had two clutches. One family raised their young in the lilacs; they fledged (all six of them) and spent time in the garden before dispersing. Two days ago we thought we heard the ‘sound’ of Starling babies but couldn’t see them for the foliage. They came out today – there are three more. You have no idea how delighted I am to have had nine European Starlings fledge from my lilac bushes. Yes, I know that some people do not like them. They see them as invasive, but, according to Into the Red, they are globally threatened. So I am feeling good about providing them with a safe home to breed their young, a place to eat, and shelter and bathing. Into the Red says, “What monsters must we be, that we have reduced it to sit on the Red List.” (118)

I know individuals who dislike sparrows, Starlings, and any bird that is not ‘cute’. They refuse to feed or provide water for them. I wonder how they would feel if the birds were in charge and looked at them?

So it was a record year, promoted by plenty of food during the winter and spring, lots of water, and shelter – the three things that are required. Six baby Blue Jays as well with the one family. It is not clear to me how many baby crows there are, but there are at least three. They have trouble figuring out how to land on the lilac branches, often falling through the leaves till they decide something hard is safer. One had decided to hop and hop over the hot asphalt roof! Silly little one. Parents have them learn by doing! Dozens and dozens of sparrows!!!!!!

Despite the heat warning, Ann has taken Don to the park in the hope of finding some cool shade for them to have a walk. They won’t be gone long. Toby and I have made a Swedish sponge cake with whipped cream icing and fresh strawberries for their return.

More ringing in Finland and a joke!

Osprey Friends

Dirk Brichzi ·Soportsdenauift341hcha1i3h3i62t6ag86llu7ific101l209106glt3ac ·

Janakkala Nest, Finland

Oh my God! An old man has climbed up to an Osprey nest just to take photos of the chicks!!

Don’t worry, I’m only joking! 😉

The “old man” is Professor Pertti Saurola, one of the world’s leading ornithologists in the field of Tawny and Ural owls, but he seems to like Ospreys, too. He is now 87 years old, but he still insists on ringing Ospreys himself — even high up in the air.

This is the Janakkala nest. The male since 2025 is Aake, while the female is new and is called Ulpu. Together, they have raised three beautiful young Ospreys, which have already started practising their wings and will hopefully take their first flights very soon.

Aake likes to bring large bream to the nest — a very common fish species in Europe — which is probably why the chicks look so healthy and well-fed.

People in the chat are already discussing whether one of the chicks should be named “Pertti” in honour of the professor. Let’s see whether he will climb up to the nest again next year, at the age of 88, to ring the young ospreys…

I adore this ma – Professor Pertti. I have watched him ring these ospreys for years. Let’s hope that these three thrive!

Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qe167Gv-1Nw—  feeling happy in Janakkala, Finland.

Please watch this video “Save Menhaden – Save the Bay” by Robert Kellam about the osprey crisis and Menhaden: https://youtu.be/SVLjuIp20PA?s

I want to thank Pam Breci and everyone else who telephoned PSEG about the fishing line choking one or more of the ospreys on the PSEG Oyster Park platform.

You may not think your calls and writing help, but they do. My City was destined to have voted to ditch the 1.2 million-tree budget for our City. Were they in denial as to the type of heat and how well trees help reduce heat in urban environments? A writing-and-phoning campaign ensued, and the mayor overturned the decision. You can make a difference.

In Memorial for Iniko – a most special bird in all the world. Orange 1031.

Ventana Wildlife Society

1h · 

In loving memory of Iniko (1031)

Iniko hatched in a Big Sur redwood nest on April 25, 2020, the daughter of two of the most storied condors in our program: Redwood Queen (190), matriarch of the central California flock, and Kingpin (167), the flock’s dominant male. She immediately captivated the hearts of viewers. Watching the endearing chick with her parents on our live Condor Nest Cam provided joy and hope for so many during the isolation and challenges we all faced that year.

Iniko’s name means “born during troubled times”, after all that she went through. At 4 months old, the Dolan Fire swept through Big Sur on the night of August 21, 2020, taking the life of her father and nine other free-flying condors. The flames surrounded Iniko’s cavernous nest, but she miraculously survived. As her mother rose to the task of being a single parent, a new challenge emerged. An unmated male condor, Ninja (729), entered the nest, possibly seeing an opportunity to claim a vacant territory left open by the passing of Kingpin. Redwood Queen rushed in to defend her chick, and Iniko was force-fledged, falling to the ground during the scuffle. Redwood Queen chased off the intruder, but Iniko’s prospects seemed dim huddled on the ground with only one parent. Our concern grew as time passed and the chick remained vulnerable and showed a limp. Our biologists came to the rescue and hiked her carefully out of the canyon and transported her to Los Angeles Zoo for treatment. She luckily recovered, was re-released back to the wild with two other condors in 2021, and thrived in the years following.

This year, at 6 years old, Iniko reached breeding age and found a mate in 9 year old male Tyrion (840). The two had a nest in a remote canyon in Big Sur and we were excited to watch her journey in this new stage of life. Sadly, the nest failed. Then we recently got the mortality signal from her transmitter. Losing Iniko is especially painful, so soon after the passing of her sister, Kodama (646). Her early life story—surviving fire, injury, and rescue, is a reminder of what California condors are capable of overcoming and the passion and determination of the people who work tirelessly to save them.

Iniko was a wonderful ambassador for her species and we are grateful for what she has meant to us. Thank you all for caring so deeply about her. Iniko’s legacy will live on in all of our hearts.

Photos 1-3: Tim Huntington

Watch Iniko’s incredible story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TDawpr5KPE

She survived so much to die of lead poisoning. Unbelievable the damage we have done as humans to our planet and thus to the wildlife that try and survive.

Tiny at Blackbush has a huge crop today – thanks, PB.

Two chicks dead at the Clinton Osprey nest in CT.

At Kielder Forest nest 2, chick three has died. Two larger siblings were ringed today. Chick 1 is 1K4 and weighed 1270 grams. He is Keenly. Chick 2 was 1K5 and weighed 1370 grams. Both are believed to be male.

The State of the Eagle from Wings of Whimsy:

The State of the Eagle 2026Download

Iris feeding her very lucky chick.

Her chicks are ringed. Fru Rauer is now helping dad feed the hungry mob as they fatten up for migration. https://youtu.be/MSf8Vx7Nmy8?

Fireworks cause death. Please work to eliminate them from celebrations.

I am going to sign off today and wish you a lovely end of the week. Take care. I will be back – at least on Monday. We are due to have extreme heat for the next few days. Will make all the efforts to keep the garden animals and my family cool and hydrated during this time. Hoping that the wildlife in the field will be alright.

Thank you to everyone for your posts on FB and images, for the comments you posted to me, and to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to watch these magnificent creatures.

Name the chicks! Late Thursday in Bird World

9 July 2026

Hello,

We hope that each of you had a good Thursday and that the end of the week will be kind

Please make sure that you suggest names for Dorcha and Louis’s two daughters! See below. The deadline is noon Monday – Loch Arkaig time.

First, I wanted to tell you who had been visiting the feeder for the homeless cats. It is a fantastic camera that has been running for more than two days and still has 97% of its power left. The image is fantastic, and it will take video clips if movement is detected. In this instance, we set it to ‘pets’. The first visit was Mr Crow who loves to dump the cat kibble out of the stainless steel bowl. Then Mr and Mrs Blue Jay along with all the other Jays. A red Squirrel and some grey squirrels, an orange cat named Samson, a tabby cat named Kiwi (no Brock), and, hold on, a skunk. I will keep the camera running except when I know it is going to rain which might happen tonight.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Thursday 9th July 2026

It’s a girl! Two of them, to be precise – Louis & Dorcha have produced two female chicks this year, continuing their tradition of same-sex clutches. The exception being 2023 which had a solo male chick – would the egg lost overboard also have hatched out male? We’ll never know. However, in not very good news, ringer Lewis Pate found the nest to be festooned with fishing twine, and one of the chicks entangled. He was able to remove it all, thank goodness, otherwise the chick probably would not have been able to fledge. George WTS has opened the name game – suggestions must be in by noon on Monday, don’t forget to use hashtag #2026NAME otherwise your suggestion might not be included. A panel will short list the suggestions and make their decision on Monday evening, which George will announce on Tuesday. In regular business, Garry LV0 brought two fish for Aurora, taking the Nest One tally to one hundred and fifty eight, and Louis brought five fish for Dorcha and the chicks, taking the Nest Two tally to two hundred and fifty seven. No disturbances today, the chicks were settled, the weather was settled but is due to change to overnight drizzle and a low of 15°C, and thundery showers, sunny intervals and a high of 23°C tomorrow.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/-pm7UfxK_n4 N2 Name those chicks! Name Game open now until noon Monday 13th https://youtu.be/dzeVEwfADQQ N2 Are the chicks still full from last night? Neither’s interested in fish one 04.28.03https://youtu.be/Btb8Cm0MpR0 N2 Fish two gets hidden then the chicks try self feeding 05.03.07https://youtu.be/zy5OhBs5nk4 N2 Dorcha’s causing havoc with sticks 12.18.56https://youtu.be/OIHui3ptAqk N1 Aurora takes the fish and departs, Garry settles on the egg 14.12.37https://youtu.be/-0eCsSKqnDE N2 Fish three gets a 20-second handover 17.17.59https://youtu.be/QM-dPgIy0es N2 Tiny tiddler fish four is gone in 2 minutes 20.39.59https://youtu.be/UoIr0cwnAZk N1 Garry delivers fish two then both depart – empty nest 22.05.00https://youtu.be/4RzQT_DMpS4 N2 Dorcha almost barges Louis off the nest to get to fish five 22.51.17

You’re invited to join the friendly and knowledgeable community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum – it’s fun and free, everybody’s welcome:

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

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Kelly Sorenson has sent out the following e-mail regarding the search for Iniko:

From the Director Iniko 1031 The News We FearedDownload

Some good news coming out of Wales.

SK Hideaways has a new video of Sandy and Luna protecting their territory. https://youtu.be/voxNZ7CTeDM?

For those of you intending to donate again to Save Moon Camp, please do so before the end of the month. SaveMoonCamp.org

Little Dewey is not so little and she is standing on the rails looking out at the world beyond. Good fish count today – thanks Pam and Heidi: Dewey fish count 7/9…8 Total…Mom 6 Menhaden, Dad 2 (1 bluefish, 1 Menhaden)

Osprey are dying all over the US and in Canada. What is the precise reason for those that are not part of the industrial trawling of Omega Protein? Is it heat stress on the fish? Those that depend on trout as their primary food are having trouble in Long Island Sound and other adjacent areas where the temperature in the water where the trout live exceeded 65 F. We saw this a couple of years ago in Montana.

Still, Menhaden are a huge issue in the NE or rather, the lack of them.

For those of you who might have missed it, I encourage you to read Viki Volk’s diary over her two decades of watching ospreys from her front porch on St. George’s Island, Indian Creek, Maryland. The ospreys thrived, and now, there is one little one struggling to survive. This is a tragedy unfolding before Viki’s eyes and all those who are watching the ospreys closely in this region. That diary is here: IslandCreekOspreys.com. It is free. You will learn something from an individual who loved/s our fish hawks.

I found entry 2020-3 interesting. There is a mention of supplementary fishing in that entry.

Something that is troubling me is that we are now finding more fishing equipment in the nests of the UK Ospreys – something unheard of in years past. This happened on the nest of Louis and Dorcha when the ringer found one of the chicks tangled in line. We know that Telyn swallowed a line and lure – and I am certain there was mention of at least one other nest with issues. What is going on? why now?

I wish that the female at Blackbush would feed the big siblings slower and then when she feeds Tiny she is focused and feeds fast. She drives me crazy.

The little one at Cowlitz PUD is moving about but I still have serious concerns about its survival. Let me be wrong!

I continue to have concerns about the only surviving chick at Osoyoos also. One day at a time.

Things look good for the pair at Coeur d’Alene Idaho.

The video of the ringing of the chicks at Fru Rauer in Norway is now available: https://youtu.be/xeMiYYPGVg8?

We continue to put wildlife in harm’s way with our activities including the mining of the ocean floor.

Species’ ingenious survival strategies no match for human destruction, red list revealshttps://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jul/09/species-ingenious-survival-strategies-no-match-human-destruction-red-list?CMP=share_btn_url

If you have travelled to Spain and Portugal recently you will, no doubt, have seen the multitude of storks that live there. Where do they eat? The dump. In fact, Bald Eagles in my City frequent the dump for food because road kill and small mammals are ot plentiful. They used to be but expanding housing developments and rodenticides to kill mice and rats have caused their food sources to dwindle. Now, we endanger their lives with all our junk food loaded with chemicals in those landfills!

Health risk fears for storks in Europe over ‘junk food’ from landfillhttps://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jul/08/health-risk-fears-for-storks-in-europe-over-junk-food-from-landfill?CMP=share_btn_url

Thank you so much for being with us. It has been a bit of a long day, but a very productive one. I have been decluttering, and there is an energy in setting a simple goal, such as a single drawer, and seeing it only holding what is essential. Like a rental property on holiday! We wound up cleaning three drawers and taking a good look at the basement, which is going to get cleared. Tomorrow it will be Toby’s clothes. He has certainly grown from that little puppy that arrived 15 months ago. Someone is going to love those cute sweaters – hopefully some of them will go to Ann’s sweet little Australian Shepherd, Lucy.

Take care. See you soon!

Thank you to Geemeff for her daily summary and videos, SK Hideaways for their videos of Luna and Sandy, to PB for keeping me informed, to those who posted information and images on FB, to Kelly Sorenson and his team for their dedication to the California Condors, and to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to witness these amazing creatures. Thank you to the Guardian for their continuing reporting on wildlife and the environment.

Name the chicks…Thursday in Bird World

9 July 2026

Good Afternoon Everyone,

I don’t want to bore you to death, but it is hot. We continue under a special advisory for temperatures in the 30s, climbing to the mid 30s C, with a humidex reading of 45 C.

The heat is changing all of our lives. That, along with intense and multiple storms and heavy rains, is causing catastrophic events around the world. For me, my focus is on the wildlife who are particularly suffering – no shade, not much fish (for many reasons when it is a heat related event), and no one willing to step up and help. Dave Hancock put up shades for the Bald Eagles in British Columbia. Will we need to do this for the ospreys that live in vulnerable areas? or will there be any ospreys to shade. Viki reports from Indian Creek, Maryland. She writes, “The worst news, it’s possible only one of the two chicks in Lily’s nest got fed yesterday. There were at least two fish deliveries, but the third Lily was squeeing for it as LB prepped it in his perch tree — and that fish was tiny. I’m not even sure if it was big enough for LB to share. I do not see a happy outcome for Island Creek. Year number 3 of no fledglings.” If you have not checked out her blog documenting years of observing the ospreys on Indian Creek – when they were plentiful – please do. It’s free and you can learn a lot about osprey behaviour. Here is the place to go: IslandCreekOspreyes.com

It is time to name the chicks at Loch Arkaig nest 2, home to Louis and Dorcha. The deadline is Monday, and the selection will be made Monday night, so put your thinking caps on. There are two. To give name suggestions, you must either go to the forum or any Woodland Trust social media platform and use this #2026NAME. Then put in two names, one for each chick.

Here is the place to vo5te – go all the way down to the chat: https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam/

You will note that George indicates both chicks are female. I was going to leave this to Geemeff to surprise everyone, but it seems everyone knows!!!!!!

Dorcha feeding the two chicks:

After waiting patiently in the line, little four did get some fish around noon at the Blackbush nest in Prince Edward Island. It was not a lot – a few bites and the skin at the end before Mum cleaned her beak. I am not clear if the little one had food earlier.

At 1259 Little Four is hoping for a private feeding. It certainly got a few bites before it was joined by another bigger sib who, in the end, frightened the little one to the rail (the little chick is very nervous).

The little one at Osoyoos has a leaf-lined nest and had some fish at 0614.

I believe we are losing at least one of the two osplets on the nest at Cowlitz or both. This nest desperately needs a huge influx of fish.

Clark PUD is doing well.

Two chicks at Port of Ridgefield are doing well.

The only hatch of Keke and Kam at Sandpoint looks alright. Small fish coming in – like all nests, they could use lots more fish to build up fat and strength. Little one is growing fast.

Trio at Santiam doing well.

Dixie Rother posted good news about the Glacier Gardens eaglets.

Pam Breci catches the fledge at Salt Point, Lansing, NY. Yeah.

Celebrations at Seilli Island, Finland. The famous Seili Island (Seilli) Osprey nest in Finland’s Archipelago Sea features adult ospreys Hildur and Stefu. In a highly celebrated milestone for 2026, the pair successfully welcomed three chicks that hatched on June 1, 3, and 5—a major event as three chicks had not successfully hatched on this specific nest in ten years.

Clark was out early. What an amazing family.

Iris keeps baby cool.

Charlie has been bringing in big trout for Mum and baby C22 at Charlo Montana.

McEuen Park osplets look alright but it also looks hot. I wish every cam had a temperature gauge.

The nest of Telyn and Idris at Dyfi is sure getting full!!!!

CJ7 and Blue 022 have a fuller nest at Poole Harbour Carey’s Secret Garden osprey nest! Four female chicks doing fantastic.

Elen and Teifi have three gorgeous ospreys at Glaslyn.

Two at Usk Valley doing well.

Llyn Brenig chicks behaving themselves at their Welsh nest. Fish came on. No great interest by chicks so off the adult went.

Toby and Hugo Yugo wish you a great day.

Thank you for being with us today. Please take care. Stay cool. Please remember the animals and leave out water. It is life saving.

Thank you to all of the individuals who posted information on FB and images, to Viki Volks for her observations at Island Creek, to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to observe these families, thank you, thank you.

Late, late Wednesday in Bird World

8 July 2026

Good Evening Everyone,

I thought it was a beautiful day, weather-wise, in Winnipeg. It was a little hot, but it is going to get worse. We are expecting 45 C with the humidex in the coming days. There are warnings of thunderstorms and the heat. I feel so bad for the animals outside. I did check today, and it is 6 degrees cooler in the tree tunnel in the back garden. The front part of the back garden was nearly as cool. As a result, I have contacted my back neighbour, and he is going to dig up the area behind the conservatory, and I intend to plant it with trees so that, with the exception of a small area for garden tools and recycling bins, etc., it will all be forest. I may even dig up the bottom part of the deck! Why am I doing this? First, to help the wildlife and animals that come into our garden. Second, to help keep our house cooler in the coming years and to defy our bloody City government, which has decided to cut the tree planting programme in favour of cement!!!!!!!!!! Don’t even get me started. There is an election coming up. I hope that we get some people who care about the quality of life for every living soul, not just developers.

I am grateful, and we will be OK. My house has triple-pane windows throughout. With the exception of the conservatory, they have special glass that keeps the warmth in during the winter and cools in the summer. I also have one extraordinary AC unit. When the extension was built, it was already known that temperatures would rise in the summer and could be much colder in the winter, so that was all taken into account. I do need to redo the insulation in the attic, and hopefully, after my son removes anything valuable from there in a week, that can be done.

So, please take care of yourself as this heat spreads everywhere. Remember that water is important for life, and a bowl of water set out could save a life.

The chicks of Louis and Dorcha were ringed Wednesday evening. Geemeff has all the details that are known in their daily summary:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Wednesday 8th July 2026

The weather was settled and both males provided well for their mates – Garry LV0 brought two fish for Aurora 536, taking the Nest One tally to one hundred and fifty six, and although both of them left the nest unattended for long periods, at the time of filing this report, half past midnight, Aurora is still in residence sitting on the egg. Louis brought seven fish for Dorcha and the chicks, taking the Nest Two tally to two hundred and fifty two. The family had a bit of a disturbed day with an intruder Osprey nearby and various aircraft passing near the nest, and then the major disturbance in the evening which is also the main story of the day – a visit from the ringers! Lewis Pate, the intrepid raptor expert who climbs 70 foot tall trees only to be nipped by sharp little beaks, attended today to ring the two chicks. This time he did it on the ground, climbing up to put them safely in bags, bringing them down and carrying out the ringing then climbing back up again to return the chicks to the nest. The actual process involves not just putting a Darvic ring on the left leg and a BTO ring on the right leg, but also taking various measurements, noting weights and making a gender assessment. That information will be given later but today we know their Darvic IDs, and the golden chick is now 8P6, and the dark chick is 8P7. The chicks were still pancaked when the nest cam cam back on after the ringers had left, but Dorcha was perched nearby and Louis brought the last two of today’s seven fish, and actually fed one of the chicks himself, and the whole family seems pretty much back to normal by the end of the day. The overnight forecast is for light clouds, light winds and a low of 14°C, continuing tomorrow with a high of 20°C.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/PcIGga48Mis N2 Early breakfast but fish one doesn’t last long 05.15.26

https://youtu.be/ddVnYNbnrL8 N2 Chicks are full so Dorcha gets most of fish two 05.45.21

https://youtu.be/mlUUrshkuAY N2 Fish three arrives an hour after the last  06.45.20

https://youtu.be/txcgIyGSLuQ N2  Dorcha stares lochwards, ignoring fish four 12.42.51

https://youtu.be/50g6P5_5ftA N2 Everyone’s full when Louis brings fish five 15.12.42

https://youtu.be/nJXkZ2c0I20 N1 Aurora departs with fish one leaving Garry on the nest 15.54.21

https://youtu.be/UdIdOtRYEX0 N1 Garry remains on the nest after Aurora departs with fish two 20.28.05

https://youtu.be/gmOsyBa-EoM N2 Dorcha stays on the perch so Louis feeds a chick with fish six 22.01.10

https://youtu.be/7zWGgNzcMwc N2 Dorcha flies off with fish seven leaving Louis in charge 22.19.49

Bonus read – BTO history of ringing (you might be surprised at how long it’s been carried out): 

https://www.bto.org/our-science/projects/bird-ringing-scheme/about-ringing/history-ringing


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

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

It is no secret that I am simply gutted about the death of P3 at Cornell. Thank you, Pam Breci, for taking the time to cheer me up! And you did that with a great screen capture of Tiny at Blackbush with a huge crop and then you put a big smile on my face.

“This will make you laugh…19.59.12 Tiny feeling fat and brave went after another sib but then ran and hid under moms tail.”

I laughed. This is one little stinker that wants to live despite all the abuse it has taken and the food that it has been denied. This chick reminds me of Tiny Tumbles at Achieva in 2020 – or was it 2021? A survivor.

A beautiful story about a disaster, hope, and determination from the Lonely Camp:

“Condor 316 laid her egg in a cave on the edge of an Arizona cliff in April 2023, one of her last acts before avian influenza killed her. Her mate, Condor 680, was sick too. He stayed on the egg. For three weeks he incubated it alone, refusing to leave the cave to eat or drink. A California condor egg takes 57 days to hatch. A single parent cannot maintain the temperature alone for that long. The egg and the father were both going to die in that cave.

On April 17, biologists from The Peregrine Fund who had been monitoring 680’s movements waited outside the cave until the male made a rare departure to briefly stretch his wings. They scrambled inside, wrapped the egg in towels, packed it into a small field cooler with hand warmers, and drove 300 miles south to Phoenix. Jessica Schlarbaum, a Peregrine Fund spokesperson, said 680 had been so focused on incubating that he was not leaving to find food and water for himself, risking his own life.

At Liberty Wildlife in Mesa, Arizona, veterinary technician Jan Miller candled the egg, holding it to a bright light to see if anything was alive inside. The clinic had spent the previous month caring for flu-infected condors. More than half had died, including 316. Miller had little hope. She was looking for blood vessels or movement. She saw both. The mood in the room shifted instantly. Oh my god, it is actually viable.

The egg surface tested negative for the virus. The chick inside was poorly positioned and required an assisted hatch. Veterinarian Stephanie Lamb carefully cut away sections of shell. On May 1, 2023, the chick emerged. Liberty Wildlife staff spent two anxious days waiting for the HPAI test results. The chick was negative. They learned she was female. In a species where males outnumber females, her sex made her survival even more significant. They named her Milagra, Spanish for miracle. Her official number was 1221. The Peregrine Fund normally identifies condors only by number, to avoid humanizing a wild species. They made an exception.

Within a week, Liberty Wildlife veterinarian Stephanie Lamb flew the chick to The Peregrine Fund’s breeding facility in Boise, Idaho. Milagra needed to be raised by condors, not people. Her foster father was waiting. His name was Cuyama, officially Condor 27. He had hatched in the wild in California in 1983. When the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service made the decision to capture every remaining California condor on earth to save the species, there were 22 left.

Cuyama was one of them. He had spent four decades in the breeding program, siring and raising captive-bred chicks that would be released into the wild. Now, at more than 40 years old, he was raising one more.

Milagra spent over a year in Boise, first with her foster parents, then in a socialization pen with other young condors and two older mentor birds. She learned to eat, preen, interact, and establish her place in a condor social hierarchy, all from birds, never from humans.

On September 28, 2024, The Peregrine Fund opened the door of a flight pen on a red cliff at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, 50 miles from the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. Six hundred people watched from the basin below. Milagra was inside with three other captive-reared condors. The first bird left after 20 minutes. The second after 40. Milagra sat in the pen for an hour and 20 minutes. Then she walked out. She did not soar. She stepped onto the ledge and looked around.

She found a carcass that the field crew had laid out below the cliff and began eating. An older condor landed beside her. He was male, large, and his smooth pink head showed his age. They fed side by side. For a moment they turned and faced each other on the rocky ledge. The older bird was Condor 680. He was Milagra’s biological father. Tim Hauck, director of The Peregrine Fund’s condor program, said it was unlikely the birds recognized their family connection. For the humans watching, it did not matter whether they did.

Condor 680 survived. Removing the egg from the cave saved his life. He left the nest, recovered, and has remained healthy. Condor 316 had raised two chicks before Milagra. Neither survived to adulthood. Milagra is her last descendant.

Source: The Peregrine Fund / Audubon Magazine / Smithsonian Magazine / Associated Press / Salt Lake Tribune.”

A big shout out to Debbie Campbell of Menhaden – Little Fish, Big Deal. Debbie is going to set up a Zoom link for me and my readers to watch and interact with the director of The Last Osprey in August. I will keep you posted on how to sign up!

Ringing took place at the Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s Foulshaw Moss Osprey platforms:

One of two osprey chicks at Bunarkaig has died.

Lots of activity at Fraser Point. SK Hideaways has some of it on video! https://youtu.be/IeQYmmnGWzA?

Thank you for being with us today. Tomorrow I will tell you who has been eating at our feral cat feeder!

Thank you to Pam Breci and Tiny for the smiles, Geemeff for the summary and videos, SK Hideaways for keeping us informed about all things going on with those California eagles, and to all those who posted information and images on FB – I am so grateful to you and the owners of the streaming cams.

Late, late Tuesday in Bird World

7 July 2026

Hello Everyone,

There is always good news although sometimes we have to look hard for it. Today I want to begin with a note that our beloved osprey, Ervie, from the Port Lincoln Osprey barge, has a girlfriend and has been seen carrying sticks to a nest. It made my heart beat lighter.

Today’s blog is not full of hope and happiness. There are a lot of deaths in the US, and as I continue to remind everyone, we must celebrate those nests that manage to fledge even a single chick. I am wondering how many will fledge their entire clutch? When fledge begins, please send me names, as I want to create a map of those nests. I continue to need your help with the memorial wall. Have a look, please, and let me know who I am missing. (Not limited to ospreys!)

I want to begin with a tragedy unfolding at the PSEG Oyster Bay osprey platform. What begin as a hopeful season is ending up with tragedy after tragedy due to human debris. The youngest chick cannot eat because it has a blue rope stuck in its beak and throat. There is also a fishing line (hook unknown if present) wrapping itself in the centre of the nest at last check. No one is going to check this nest. Some of you might recall that there were issues at the PSEG Patchogue nest several years ago and the electric company did nothing. This is human caused – please call or write and ask for help!

Their e-mail is: CustomerServiceLI@pseg.com

At the Achieva Osprey platform, Jack had been MIA. He showed up today with a Spadefish for Little. Nice. This is good.

Bart Molenaar reports: “Empty nest at Manton Bay. Both 8R7 at 8:24 and his sister 8R6 at 10:46 fledged this morning.”

Llyn Brenig chicks were ringed.

Beautiul babies at this nest. So nice and healthy – those Welsh chicks are just darlings. The chicks of Aeron Z2 and Blue 014 at The Friends of Osprey platform at Pont Cresor, Glaslyn, were ringed. Here is the video: https://youtu.be/TbX6mM1t8XU?

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Tuesday 7th July 2026

Like yesterday, today wasn’t nearly as wet as expected and the forecast shows light rain overnight with a low of 14°C, improving tomorrow to mainly dry with some drizzle, gentle breezes and a high of 19°C. Garry LV0 brought one fish for Aurora 536 taking the Nest One tally to one hundred and fifty four, but the nest cam was down for its longest period to date, well over nine hours, allowing the possibility of several unseen deliveries. The pair are spending long periods off the nest but Aurora is still staying overnight, begging the question: for how much longer? Sad news came from Bunarkaig via Chaddie and LizB that only one chick seems to have survived, and fish deliveries are not as regular as required. Fingers crossed for the remaining chick of Affric 152 & Prince. No such problems for Louis & Dorcha, ignoring the big RAF transporter which flew unusually close to the nest, Louis delivered eight fish, taking the Nest Two tally to two hundred and forty five and sending the chicks to bed with bulging crops. The chicks are maturing rapidly, they join Dorcha in fish-calling and are developing little sneaky ways which will aid their survival as juveniles – one stole a fish tail right out of the beak of the other, then later made a call at feeding time which caused the other chick to pancake, leaving the sneaky chick to an exclusive feed. Forum members are still buzzing about the happy news of the return of 2024 translocated chick 1JW to his place of fledging in Spain, and the media have taken an interest too, link to a news article in the bonus section.

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/6P1aZzzdL7A N2 Louis leaves with Dorcha’s encouragement after delivering fish one 07.04.52https://youtu.be/AJVyNz3Qajk N2 Dorcha warns off two intruder Ospreys near the nest 08.45.09 https://youtu.be/0d8FH8p4HZI N2 Dorcha watches an RAF Atlas Airbus fly near the nest 10.26.05 (zoom)https://youtu.be/GE_Lyu858xY N2 Tiny fish two lasts just 2.5 mins 11.27.23https://youtu.be/DfD9sZdoniM N2 Both chicks join Dorcha in calling for fish three 16.21.24https://youtu.be/cxtvO4-3jCY N1 Aurora departs with fish one, Garry leaves too – nest is empty 17.04.44https://youtu.be/aJrabFkkhow N2 Louis does a ten second handover of number four, a flatfish 17.37.49 https://youtu.be/m-ZNudRviJI N2 Another trout for the family, number five 19.39.52https://youtu.be/-Dq2Xu65LoY N2 One chick steals the tail of fish six right out of the other’s beak! 20.53.30https://youtu.be/pf-AiRRwgHI N2 Yet another trout arrives, number seven 21.02.17https://youtu.be/mQ91FHWBcYs N2 Lean mean fishing machine Louis bring number eight 22.31.17


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

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

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The third hatch at Cape Cod Mashpee Osprey Nest has died today. COD is thought to be a lack of food but heat could have been a mitigating factor.

Things were looking better for the little fourth hatch at Blackbush Osprey platform in Prince Edward Island. In the comments: “Blackbush .. 3 x good-sized fish and mum remained at the nest most of the day and sheltered her chick at times… 7:25, 10:44, 17:13” ‘PB’ supplied a screen capture of ‘Tiny’ getting fed.

This screen capture shows the immense size difference between Tiny and its three feathered big sibs.

Concerns for the Wetlands Osprey platform:

No worries for Little Dewey. This Mum is incredible.

Members of the Ventana Wildlife Society will try and find Iniko on Wednesday. The mortality signal went off on 18 June 2026. Let’s please hope this is a glitch.

Iniko 1031 A Mortality Signal and a Community Holding Its BreathDownload

Viki Volk is our monitor on Indian Creek, Maryland. She has given me permission to include her full name and location. She has been monitoring the ospreys living in front of her house for over twenty years. This is our correspondence today. Viki was originally a reporter, and she has written a diary of her experiences with the ospreys. I urge you to check it out and enjoy a real-life experience through the years – a place where there were ospreys breeding successfully and seen everywhere, to today – where there is a single nest that could be struggling.

“IslandCreekOspreyes.com

What a delight your notes always are, despite the news. We also lost the only chick remaining on the nest next door – although out front Lily and LB are keeping their two alive.

The one next door bothers me. The food was not as plentiful as it should have been and the slast chick alive appeared to have failed to thrive. There was a bully in that nest, but the surviving chick looks like you’d expect the bully’s victim to look like. There was food on the nest the evening before the chick died. An adult was eating but for some reason not feeding the chick. The chick did not present itself for feeding, although moved toward the adult. The adult made no effort to feed the chick. This is a more difficult nest for me to see into than the one straight out front. But it seemed more complicated than lack of fish. The chick rallied the next day, but didn’t survive the next night. It has been very hot week, adding to its problems. The temperatures have been in the 90s. That’s 32 to you, right?

My story – Island Creek Ospreys – 2020 – What I Knew Then, What I Know Now – 2026 –  currently stops a day short of that death. But I will be adding at least through the 2026 season.

I would be thrilled if you mentioned it!!  Please use it freely. I believe what I write about ospreys is correct and would be very glad if you do read it and let me know of any errors or misunderstandings I might have. 

In 2019 ospreys were so prolific in the Chesapeake I had to assure the Maryland Range I could distinguish, and it WAS an eagle in my yard. The osprey population was so large in Maryland that the state no longer rescued osprey.

Today food looked short out front. “

There is a documentary, The Last Osprey, that will be show in August in Colonial Beach, Va. Just recently an adult osprey has been found deceased there.

Thank you so much for being with me tonight. This is just a quick glimpse at some of the nests. I had a brilliant day with my son and daughter in law as we set up my outside camera to discover that it is the Crows and the Blue Jays that are eating the cat kibble left out for Brock! Let’s hope that Brock will arrive tonight. I have not seen him sliding under the gate in a week.

Take care everyone! See you soon.

Thank you to absolutely everyone who posted information and images on FB, to Geemeff, thank you for your summary and videos, and to the owners of the streaming cams we are always grateful even if the news is grim that we are able to see the good, the bad, and the horrific.

Late, late Monday in Bird World

6 July 2026

Hello Again,

There are a couple of items that need to be sent out to you that were not in the earlier post. One of those is SK Hideaway’s videos for the week of the 28th of June. This is a remarkable list of videos covering many nests on several continents, please check all of them out for the latest information on these bird families:

SK Hideaways Videos, week of 28 June 2026

FOBBVCAM Eagles, Big Bear Valley, CA ~ Jackie, Shadow ~ eaglets Sandy and Luna (13 weeks old)
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

Sandy & Luna’s Reaction to Fireworks (2026 Jul 4)
While Sandy and Luna noticed the fireworks, they did not move from their roosts. It was a relief and a joy to see these strong, fearless eaglets hold their ground. 
Video: https://youtu.be/BtLJDMQ16sU
Sandy & Luna Put on Dazzling Flight Displays! A Busy Day Exploring (2026 Jul 3)
What a difference a day or two make. After spending the night together in the nest tree, Sandy and Luna got an early start exploring the habitat. Their flight skills grow stronger every day, along with their confidence. They stayed close together for much of the day ~ perching on a variety of trees. When they both departed the Sunny Hideout, they gave viewers a dazzling airshow that fans won’t soon forget. 
Video:  https://youtu.be/PJYYeCH6kQM

Sandy & Luna Reunite at Nest ~ Get 2-Fish Reward ~ (2026 Jul 2)
Four days after Sandy fell from the nest tree and three days after Luna fledged, the eaglets reunited on the nest. But before they did, they met on adjacent perches in their habitat ~ Luna on the Cactus Snag and Sandy making a great flight to the top of Sunny Hideout. 

They returned to the nest within seconds of each other and it wasn’t long before Shadow delivered the first fish of the day, followed shortly by fishes two and three (#3 not shown here). Fans got their wish of Sandy and Luna reuniting at the nest. We have a suspicion it may have been Shadow’s wish, too.
Video:  https://youtu.be/AMnXeJ1UCQw

Ace Flyer Luna Makes the Rounds ~ Sandy Makes an Appearance (2026 Jul 1)
It was a glorious day seeing the entire family throughout their beautiful habitat. Luna had a busy morning perching not only on all of Jackie and Shadow’s favorite perches, but also his very own, currently nameless, pine tree perch. He ended his camera time on the Lookout Snag and headed in the direction where cam ops later found the elusive Sandy. This reminded me of a time last year when the whole family – Jackie, Shadow, Sunny, and Gizmo – met up on the Lookout Snag, so I included a photo of that special morning in this video.

Sandy claimed a nameless pine tree of her own and snuggled in throughout the afternoon. Turns out this pine tree is very near Jackie and Shadow’s roost tree, so she’ll have four eagle eyes on her overnight. I’m guessing Luna is nearby.
Video:  https://youtu.be/ruisDc0Pm74

Luna Returns to Nest! The Lure of Fish! (2026 Jun 30)
Luna spent the night atop the Simba Tree ~ his first destination and first night away from the nest. He exercised his wings a lot throughout the morning, but when Shadow circle around with his favorite food, Luna put those exercises to work and flew straight home, squeeing all the way. He devoured his fish in about a minute and sent Shadow out for more. But Luna couldn’t wait for the next Dad Dash delivery, so took off again about an hour later, flying like an ace. We have a feeling we’ll see him again soon.
Video:  https://youtu.be/J56GjZBpKoU

Sandy Found!  Food Delivered to Simba Tree and Headless Tree Rock (2026 Jun 29)
Cam ops found Sandy snuggled in the Headless Tree this afternoon as Luna continued adjusting to his new digs atop the Simba Tree. Shadow brought fish to the nest, presumably to lure the eaglets to fly, but that wasn’t to be, so he took it to the Simba Tree. Luna’s not quite ready to make his way down, so Shadow nibbled on the fish himself. Awhile later, Sandy popped out from the bushes onto a nearby rock where a parent soon brought her a snack. All is going very well here.
Video: https://youtu.be/xlEMNAS4DFU

Luna Fledges in Grand Style ~ Meets Shadow on Simba Tree (2026 Jun 29, 9:24:43)
Luna gave it some thought and then launched from the high front porch perch. It was a beautiful sight to see. Well done, Luna!
Video:  https://youtu.be/lNSDqf2Av-s

Sandy Fell From Nest🍂 FOBBV May Have Located Her🎉 Phew! 😮‍💨
After a glorious morning of new milestones by Luna reaching higher heights on the Y branch and Sandy venturing further out on a front porch limb, the day dimmed. In attempting to return to the nest from the front porch by jumping over Sandy, Luna accidentally knocked Sandy off her perch. 

Sandy was lodged in branches at two points below the nest tree for awhile, but soon released and righted herself. She was soaring or flapping as she released ~ a very good sign. Then FOBBV reported that she had been seen flying on their security camera. Hopefully we’ll see her on the webcam soon. (2026 Jun 28)
Video: https://youtu.be/_I12FV2ZfX8


San Jose CH Falcons ~ San Jose, CA ~ Hartley, Monty; chicks Jet, Scout, Stewart & Walton (10 weeks old)
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

Scout and Walton Remain in the Territory ~ Still Ousting Parents in Fleeting Moments (2026 Jul 1)
In the waning moments of our time with Hartley and Monty’s 2026 brood, each sighting and each antic is a joy to see. Here, I also captured how Hartley and Monty slowly resume their lives as empty-nesters. They are bonding frequently, but still getting interrupted by chicks. This time Scout had the job of ousting them from the nest area, while Walton was more interested in snacking on the sunshade below. Video:  https://youtu.be/CVtrzagmHl4

Morning Mayhem with Jet, Scout & Walton
We continue to see Jet, Scout, and Walton regularly, while Stewart is exploring further afield. The three brothers roost together overnight on the louvers and then are often seen together in the morning hours. They still oust parents from the nest area whenever the opportunity presents itself and this morning was no exception. Monty continues to fall for the ploy. So grateful to be able to watch them during this formative time in their growth. (2026 Jun 28)
Video: https://youtu.be/V-ihIWce5MA

Sydney White-Bellied Sea Eagles ~ Australia ~ Lady and Dad
Courtesy Sea-EagleCAM@BirdLife Australia Discovery Centre, Sydney Olympic Park (https://www.sea-eaglecam.org/video.html)
Nest cam also at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nw4pdgy3-U0

Lady Lays Egg #1!🥚 Welcome SE 37 To Be!🎊
Breeding season has begun for Lady and Dad with the arrival of egg #1. Here’s to seeing SE37 in 5 or 6 weeks. Congrats Lady and Dad!
Video:  https://youtu.be/7eusfpBt7ZY


Two Harbors Eagles ~ Catalina Island, CA ~ Cholyn & Chase, 28 years old
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

After 23 Years Together, Cholyn & Chase Still Have Much to Discuss (2026 Jul 4)
In a 2-day compilation, I captured a number of conversations and interactions between Cholyn and Chase. Their relationship is fascinating and heartwarming. This video is an exercise in stopping to smell the roses, appreciating a marvelous partnership, and gratitude for the opportunity to enjoy the life of this spectacular couple. 
Video:  https://youtu.be/1kBjJ-C-8FI

I have been absolutely concerned about number 4, the tiny osplet, at Blackbush Osprey platform in Prince Edward Island. Please remember that it is difficult under the most beneficial conditions to raise four chicks to fledge. Maya and Blue 33 have had several clutches of four but only two clutches of four fledged. We are waiting for Blue 022 and CJ7s latest four to fledge and if they do, it will beat Maya and Blue’s record and another one – fledging four chicks in consecutive years. What makes the UK nests different? First, Blue 33 has fish right below his nest. Rutland is stocked for fishers as well as the wildlife. At Poole Harbour, CJ7 is not afraid to go out fishing for her kids.

I have not seen the female fish at Blackbush. I want you to send me a note and correct me if this is wrong. I check daily, many times, but that does not mean I see everything. Little four had some fish early Monday and bless its heart, had a crop from a later fish – a note from ‘PB’ raised my hopes again for this one. It has lived another day. If it survives, this chick will be able to survive almost anything.

‘PB’ also reports that the female at Santiam is going to fish for her family. What a year this has been in the US – it is the first year that I recall so many females just getting up and getting on with the entire job of caring for their chicks. They have a choice, and I believe, as I have said several times, they are so intelligent to consider the options. They can do nothing, and if the males bring in insufficient fish, one or more of their chicks will die. Second, they can leave their babies and go fishing so they have food to live (Mum, too). This choice means they cannot guard them, so they could be preyed upon. Of course, as Laura Culley would say, if they don’t bring the fish in, the babies will die regardless, so best be hopeful and try fishing. Jill led the pack at the Achieva Osprey nest, and she is still coming to the nest with fish for Big and Little. Those babies have no idea how fortunate they are to have her for their mother. What I hope is that they learned from observing their mother and that, too, will bring in fish for their osplets. What I don’t understand is that when there is just enough fish coming in, why don’t the females go out and fish, too? Like at Blackbush?

Here is Geemeff’s summary for today:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Monday 6th July 2026

The weather was wet and windy in spells, fish were delivered and eaten, but the only story of the day was the news of the return of 1JW to the Pego-Oliva marsh in Valencia. 1JW is the 2024 chick who was placed on a translocation programme in Spain, following horrendous weather conditions and Louis unable to provide fish, who went on to fledge and migrate. It is wonderful to see photos of him as a confident two year old back in the area where he fledged, which he now calls home. Link to the press release in the bonus section. Garry brought three fish for Aurora, taking the Nest One tally to one hundred and fifty three, and Louis brought four fish for Dorcha and the chicks, taking the Nest Two tally to two hundred and thirty seven. In other news, a chick appeared to lick raindrops off Dorcha’s plumage, and Garry & Aurora are leaving their nest and unviable egg unattended for much longer periods. Today wasn’t nearly as wet as expected but the forecast remains showing continuous rain through tomorrow evening, with an overnight low of 14°C and a high of 17°C tomorrow.

Today’s videos

https://youtu.be/McoLUkZUXV4 N2 A chick sees dad with fish before mum does 09.58.32

https://youtu.be/oI1WWqcWcUA N2 Louis brings fish two and ignores Dorcha’s calls to leave 16.10.11

https://youtu.be/p0A5bMT2AfQ N1 Garry hands over fish two and they both leave 19.16.52 

https://youtu.be/f-nzb9aWTCU N2 Fish three lasts just two minutes 20.27.15

https://youtu.be/VyRN14hbkJI N1 Aurora and Garry both leave after fish three is delivered 21.41.22

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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At the Osoyoos platform, Mum went for a break or to go fishing and Dad flew in with a fish. He left the whole fish on the nest. Mum returned with a fish, fed the only surviving baby, and then picked up Dad’s fish and began feeding it to. Mum and Baby will go to bed full tonight. Feeling thankful.

Little Clark could not have more devoted parents. Clark is ‘determined, focused, responsible, and very protective’ of his family. Iris has, from the very first bite she fed this chick, taken the best care making sure it is fed well and never in the hot sun. Delighted. The juvenile feathers coming in are so beautiful. They have a rich peach tone to them!

Still two lovelies on the Coeur d’Alene nest in Idaho.

I did not see any Red-tailed fledglings at the nest of Big Red and Arthur today. Big Red prefers that they are fed off the natal nest, and she likes to teach them how to hunt for squirrels and different techniques so they can eventually provide for themselves.

Oh, it is time for Toby and me to set up the camera that Cris gave me to track the visitors to the garden. I am hoping to see Brock at the feeding station. He has been seen, but not on our street. Has he found better food? He was about five city blocks away when spotted this afternoon. I am not technically inclined, so wish me luck. This camera appears to be made for people like me.

I hope the beginning of the week has been kind to you. I am already missing my son and daughter-in-law, and they haven’t even left yet. Tomorrow they will go to the daughter-in-law’s family cottage for a week. Ann will return. Tolu will come back, and life will seem normal. Meanwhile, I will be looking forward to Cris’s return in a week.

See you soon!

Thank you to SK Hideaways and Geemeff for their videos and summaries. I am so terribly grateful. Thank you to ‘PB’ for keeping me informed when I miss something, and to the camera owners; I am so grateful. Without you, we would not know about these families and their challenges.

Monday in Bird World

6 July 2026

Good Morning Everyone,

We have had the most wonderful visits with our son and daughter in law. What a joy it is to see them and spend time. Much of that has focused on my son finding me a camera that would meet all the strange specifics I require – to check and see if Brock comes! It needs good IR, motion activated, ability to store images but without the need for a subscription to one of the cable companies, etc. I believe he has done it. We were going to test it tonight but, once again, we are in a red zone for severe thunderstorm.

It was 31 C today. No walks for Toby. His temperature range is -15 C to 24 C. He did get sprayed with the hose to cool him down, but what made me stop in my tracks was the healthy potted plants at noon, which were completely dead by 1700. Dead. Not a speck of life to recover. If my plants can die like that, think how difficult it is for those little osprey bodies perched on those hot platforms, wishing for fish. Fish are, of course, needed for growth, sustenance, and hydration, but it can get so hot that even with good fish deliveries and meals, the chicks can still die. We saw this with Hennie and Mile’s chick at Cape Henlopen.

So far, many are lucky; others are not. Tom and Audrey are losing their chicks to the heat. But was there something wrong with Audrey before they died? A few of you commented in notes to me that Audrey appeared to act ‘odd’. Adults can also be affected by the heat or succumb to other ailments.

We have news from V in Maryland. V is referring to an image on a nest with chicks. I will try to get it to attach to this blog.

“This was 2 days ago. We’re heading into more awfully hot days, but these guys are feathered and eating well.  #3 didn’t make it, and we’re down to one next door….”

There is good news coming form Ping Shen in Seattle about Harry and Sally: “Harry and Sally continue to do well – all 3 chicks continue to grow and look healthy. I visited today and found them snoozing for a bit before dad showed up with a sculpin – even when they started feeding they had pretty full crops, so it seems they have been eating well. Hope this continues!” Thank you for the lovely photos and news.

Ringing continues in the UK and in Europe. The chicks at Fru Rauer’s nest in Norway were ringed.

This information is posted on the chat: -June 1 2026 – First egg hatch – Nickname – “Yr” Ring nr: 61L – Female; June 3 2026- Second egg hatch – Nickname – “Bris” Ring nr: 63L – Male: -June 6 2026- Third egg hatch – Nickname – “Sol” Ring nr: 62L – Most likely Female

This information is from below the streaming cam:

-April 26 at 15:39 – 1st egg https://youtu.be/6-AtMkIDPVE?si=1KLrz…
-April 29 at 12:01 – 2nd egg https://youtu.be/eVS-l2llF2w?si=BDsv-…

  • Third egg laid between 1st and may 3 (camera was down, so we do not know the exact time and date) Most likely may 2
    -June 1 – First egg hatch – Nickname – “Yr” Ring nr: 61L – Female
    -June 3 – Second egg hatch – Nickname – “Bris” Ring nr: 63L – Male
    -June 6 – Third egg hatch – Nickname – “Sol” Ring nr: 62L – Most likely Female

A short video about Eagles and their feeding habits by Mark Smith. https://youtu.be/37qH_XlugSg?

8R5 has fledged at Manton Bay. He has returned to the nest to get some good fish!

If you missed it, SK Hideaways video list of 21 June.

K Hideaways Videos Week of 21 June 2026

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

FLEDGE WATCH FOR REAL ~ Sandy on Back Porch Edge ~ Luna to High Perch (2026 Jun 27)
Sandy and Luna both took big steps today ~ literally. Sandy perched on two of the back porch branches and exercised her wings with fledge-worthy vigor. Luna walked up the high perch on the front porch and exercised his wings with just as much energy. His dismount back to the nest was 10/10. One release of that back hallux talon from any of those perches and off they’d go. It’s only a matter of time and a few more grey hairs for fans. 
Video:  https://youtu.be/glMMMrK8mmI

Jackie & Shadow Can’t Resist Feeding Sandy & Luna ~ Awww (2026 Jun 26)
Instinct is a powerful thing. Despite the fact that Sandy and Luna are nearly 12 weeks old and have been self-feeding for some time, Jackie and Shadow sometimes cannot resist the urge to feed their big eaglets. Similarly, Sandy and Luna can’t resist being fed. In this video, Jackie and Shadow fed themselves and the eaglets. In addition to just enjoying some nice fish, the parents were also teaching the eaglets to identify opportunities to eat by stealing food from other eagles. This is a vital skill in their first years on their own while they learn to fish for themselves. To fans, these are bittersweet keepsake moments, as we know these eaglets will begin their life journeys very soon. (2026 Jun 26)
Video:  https://youtu.be/VC4KjBSvxPA

Luna & Sandy Take BIG JUMPS ~ Fledge Time Nearly Here (2026 Jun 24)
Luna and Sandy prepare for their next adventure in the big, wide world with BIG wingers, HIGH jumps, and LOTS of energy. At 11-1/2 weeks old, they are well within the fledge watch window. Typically male eaglets fledge first, so Luna could go first, but every eaglet and every nest is different. They both look strong and ready to fly. Holding fast to these moments as their departure time nears.
Video:  https://youtu.be/4GF9N7QnMA0


Fraser Point Eagles ~ Cruz, Andor, Sasha (hatched 3/28), Zuma (hatched 3/30), Ryder (hatched 4/1)
Courtesy Institute for Wildlife Studies | explore.org | Fraser Point Eagles Cam Ops
Nest Cam:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OY4V_AppZ6s

Sasha Brings Fish Home~ Cruz Gets Tail ~ Possible Ryder Sighting (2026 Jun 25)
Sasha arrived at the nest with a whole fish, which was likely a gift from a parent (or stolen). Cruz came to see what was for breakfish, but Sasha was not very inviting.  Cruz reverted to Mama role and fed Sasha a bit. When the eaglet remembered that he could self-feed, he snatched the fish and carried on. Later, Cruz returned and took the tail for herself. No one was more shocked than Sasha. As fans hope and await the return of Zuma and Ryder to the nest, we spend much time listening and watching for fleeting fly-bys. I’ve captured both here and invite you to join in the guessing game of who’s who! 
Video: https://youtu.be/wEML1FhAYdY

Ryder Fludges ~ Cruz Makes Beeline for Nest ~ Departs with Fish (2026 Jun 22)
The jump that broke the nest’s back could describe what happened when Ryder challenged that weakening edge of the nest. He slid/flapped down to the ground and could be heard squeeing and rustling around as he explored the ground he’s visited once before. 

If you recall, Ryder fell from that edge on April 24th (here’s the fall: https://youtu.be/WJ6b7BAztF0 / and here’s the rescue https://youtu.be/lKSFIC4irKI). He was just over 3 weeks old then. Now at 12 weeks old, he’s strong enough to have softly hit the ground (only about 15 feet below the nest) and capable of flying (though he has to prove that to himself). 

Cruz arrived just 25 seconds after Ryder fell and did a thorough assessment of the situation, as Sasha arrived and gave her an earful. About 90 minutes later, Cruz took fish leftover off the nest. We’d bet money that Ryder got a private feeding.
Video: https://youtu.be/KwnxmTaoZGM

RYDER BRANCHES!  Returns & Tests Weak Nest Edge Before Branch #2 (2026 Jun 21)
Ryder finally took the short leap to the branch that Zuma chose to branch on a few days ago. It was an easy step-flap and Mama Cruz was right there to witness the grand accomplishment. 

Ryder returned to the nest and explored the weak edge of the nest that partially collapsed yesterday. Not sure about that fixation, but it gives us slight palpitations. Only slight, though, as Ryder is ready and able to fly ~ she just doesn’t quite know it yet.  Enjoy these fleeting moments while they last. 
Video: https://youtu.be/Wz_wtfSMdY0


San Jose City Hall Falcons ~ San Jose, CA ~ Hartley and Monty; Jet, Scout, Stewart, Walton (hatched 4/4/26)
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

Brothers Jet & Walton Hatch Plot to Oust Parents Hartley & MontyJet and Walton partnered in morning aerobatics before settling on the roof for some mischief plotting. When Hartley and Monty attempted to meet up for morning bonding, Jet put the plan to work as he ousted both parents from the nest area. But Hartley and Monty made up for it later with two undisturbed rendezvous in the afternoon. While not captured here, we saw that there were three boys on the louvers at day’s end. (2026 Jun 23)
Video:  https://youtu.be/cQwfc0oKhmU

Hartley & Monty Relaxed Too Soon ~The Terrific Tiercel Terrors Returned (2026 Jun 20)
Hartley and Monty celebrated their wildly successful season with a long bonding session and putting their talons up on the deck. That is until Jet disturbed their peace with an extended screaming session. The cacophony drew Scout and Walton to the balcony to see what the fuss was about, which gave me a perfect opportunity to capture more of the mayhem we’ve all grown to love. We didn’t see Stewart, but know that he showed up today. At day’s end, the brothers roosted on the louvers overnight once again. Enjoying these fleeting moments while they last.
Video:  https://youtu.be/ASVIdmLjiIU


West End Eagles ~  Catalina Island, CA ~ Isla & Lee
Courtesy Institute for Wildlife Studies | explore.org | West End Eagles Cam Ops 
Nest Low Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfuqjSNXZ14
Other Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aT1adgYSfbcqI
Overlook Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4VruASFo0A

Lee Jumps, Flees When Creepy-Crawly “Prey” Moves ~ Raven Cleans It Up (2026 Jun 27)
I shouldn’t laugh… but just can’t help myself. Sorry, Lee. 
Video: https://youtu.be/yA8wz1WlzwQ

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Sunday 5th July 2026

Dorcha had to deal with an intruder Osprey today, she mantled and covered the chicks while shouting warnings but it didn’t come too near the nest, and if Louis saw it at all, it didn’t hinder his fishing – he delivered six fish, taking the Nest Two tally to two hundred and thirty three. Judging by the size of his crop, his actual tally for today was definitely more than six, but as with Garry LV0 on Nest One, only fish seen on nest cam count towards the tally. Garry brought one fish for Aurora 536, and his tally now stands at one hundred and fifty. It was a damp day but there were dry patches, however a yellow warning for heavy rain is in effect now until 10am tomorrow and at the time of filing this report (23.45) both females are hunkered down in the rain on wet nests. Dorcha’s doing her best to keep the chicks dry but their size makes that difficult. The overnight low is 14°C rising tomorrow to a high of 17°C but there’s not much chance of dry spells before Wednesday.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/00v0bkm1ctU N2 Breakfast lasts 18 minutes then Dorcha calls for more 07.00.16

https://youtu.be/ciA6SN8v5ZI N2 Dorcha warns away a distant intruder Osprey 12.59.18

https://youtu.be/aGkABLK43Ng N2 A second fish finally arrives, small trout 14.16.17

https://youtu.be/RY439YtTK7s N2 Fish three does a flyby before landing 14.32.23

https://youtu.be/ef9X9C6vclI N2 Fish four arrives, the third fish in an hour and a half 15.47.43

https://youtu.be/pYEwUwHI-6g N1 Finally a fish – a flatfish for Aurora 17.59.50

https://youtu.be/9c4dJ93Y4cw N2 Fish number five lasts just 3 minutes 20.36.46

https://youtu.be/Xg53wF5mu8c N2 Dorcha downs the tail of fish six 5 mins after it arrived  21.19.04


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

Lady and Dad have their second egg at the WBSE nest in the Olympic Forest in Sydney.

Fish has come into the Blackbush nest. Little 4 is still alive but is being attacked as it tries to eat. We need lots of fish and two parents feeding at this nest. Come on!

Only surviving chick at Osoyoos is often left alone in the heat but, this has turned out to be the year of little fish again with two out of three dying of hunger and/or heat. I hope some fish come on the nest.

Smiling. The two at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum are doing well – new adults from a couple of years ago??

Two at Cowlitz PUD are getting fish. Feeding is civil.

Lots of concerns about Oyster Bay – twine, not enough fish, etc. Rains coming down, is there fishing line on the nest wrapped around the adult? I can’t tell. I can still see three heads. The concern is whether or not three has enough food to survive. We wait.

Little Dewey is doing just fine – great compared to most!

There is really good news coming out of Loch Arkaig. Of the two translocated males in 2024 (one died), the survivor has returned to its Spanish translocation home this summer after its first migration. The hope is that he will find a mate and start building a family for the future. The male is 1JW.

Ringing news from Border Ospreys – Samson and Augusta!

RINGING DAY

Ringing at Foulshaw Moss took place at both nests today. News to follow.

The ringing news from the Usk Valley in Wales:

https://www.uskvalleyospreys.org/news/g7a68dfzf1g4yo91ighnrsba1twbqt?fbclid=IwY2xjawS5AAJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEesDwu1nvjtK13wDKP9aMjxgDlckkd7Qxx2bpuBiWwsJy2XV47rK2MJHkiQHc_aem_9hPPbZgh7ODtgnZ

The UK ospreys are growing big and healthy as all osprey should be. A nest of FOUR females – imagine – four females – developed with hardly any angst at Poole Harbour under the good care of CJ7 and Blue 022.

All you have to do is look at Blackbush and the issues there and scratch your head. What is happening in the US that cannot be fixed? No food for four. Now this breaks my heart. The chicks at Poole Harbour did not hatch on the same day but you would have a hard time locating the little four in that pile in the image above.

Blackbush:

What has happened to our empathy that an old law – and they are old – keeps us from providing food to these babies?

It has been a long day here today. The heat has tired us out and made Don a bit restless. It is too hot for him to go out and life can be stiffling boring for him when there is so little he can do. Believe me he knows his limitations at times. So take care. We will see you soon.

Thank you to all those who created videos, posted information on FB, sent me notes, to Geemeff for her summaries and videos and SK Hideaways (whose latest video list I cannot locate) and the owners of the streaming cams that let us watch these birds. Thank you.

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.

Late Thursday in Bird World

2 July 2026

Hello Everyone,

Just another quick run through some nests with some news. I had a wonderful day with my son, daughter-in-law, and daughter. Don had a venture with the girls, and we gathered later in the conservatory for much laughter. Gosh, these are moments to be treasured. Their time here will pass by too quickly.

We have six fledgling Blue Jays. Here is an adult with a fledgling – wings and beak open, and squawking for food! These babies are almost- if not bigger – than the adults and very demanding!

Great news coming out of Poland!

Nadleśnictwo Lipka, Lasy Państwowe and Lasy Państwowe

🦅 FISHING ACTION – STAGE TWO: New life in the Cross Forestry! 🌲💪
Remember our injured fisherman? We have amazing news for you from the next stage of this unique rescue operation! It was another day full of emotions, logistics and… some fresh fish ! 🐟👇
🩺 Morning in the hospital, afternoon on the road, and evening at the new place.
It all started at dawn in the “Jeleniagóra” Wild Animal Rehabilitation Center Gabinet Weterynaryjny Agnieszka Strączek where a veterinarian from Nadleśnictwo Zamrzenica took care of it
Our main character went through a thorough examination and was supplied professionally. As soon as we received the green light, that the bird was ready for the next step, reliable Forest Ranger Tomek from the Lipka Forestry stepped into action. He packed the little one safely and set out on the road to Nadleśnictwo Krzyż, Lasy Państwowe
Upon arriving at the location, calmly at the forest office, the fisherman went through standard procedure: he was weighed, accurately measured and rimed by Adam from @Nadle śnictwo Nedowice, State Forests. But this was just the beginning of the challenge. The real logistics operation began just under the target socket!
do ♂️ Professional mountaineer @Mariusz Urban stepped into action, who climbed the mountain itself and carefully transported down the only youngster who has so far lived in the nest. He was also weighed, measured, and hooped.
Fun fact: By weight our friend from Lipka is PERFECTLY the same as his new, natural brother “cross”! 😉
🏠 Big move and… trout with home delivery!
The climber set off to a tree for the second time – this time bringing BOTH little ones up the mountain. In order to enter a new threshold to pass in a good atmosphere, the young people got a solid “powry” from us for a housewarming party: two delicious trout! 🐟😋 So our bounce didn’t fit in with empty clamps! 😜
During the whole action, they were also able to fix and set up a previously malfunctioning photo trap. Effect? We will know how this new bird family develops, because the nest is now under constant monitoring.
The young man has already lived in a new house in Krzy le Nadle Mnictwa😎. He’s fed and kept safe and company. May nature be kinder to him in this new location! Keep your fingers crossed for both these little ones! 🦅💚
Thank you very much to Mrs. veterinarian for help and examining the little one, professor Mizerza for material support and colleagues from #EagleProtectionCommittee and foresters from #Zamrzenica, #PotrebowiceForest and #ForestCross. It’s thanks to you that small fishermen from Lipka have a better chance of survival in this wild world.
#Rybołów #OchronaPrzyrody #LasyPaństwowe #NadleśnictwoKrzyż #NadleśnictwoLipka #NadleśnictwoZamrzenica #pomagamydzikimzwierzętom
Photos and videos :
Adam Pikuła
Mariusz Urban
Hubert Z.
Dominica Nadolna

CJ7 and Blue 022’s four chicks at Poole Harbour have been ringed!

Osprey Ringing 2026

Surprise – all four chicks on CJ7 and Blue 022’s nest are female!

6T6 – Presumed female

6T7 – Presumed female

6T8 – Presumed female

6T9 – Presumed female

At the second nest at Poole Harbour, all three osplets are presumed to be males!

Nest 2

7T0 – Presumed male

7T1 – Presumed male

7T2 – Un-sexed but possibly male

Ringing also took place at Idris and Telyn’s nest at Dyfi today. Here it is on video: https://youtu.be/C5Y9VhssfyU?

There they are with their bling.

Glaslyn chicks were ringed as well. Here is the video: https://youtu.be/fGJg2umCszY?

This just makes my blood boil.

If you have been worried about Sandy at Big Bear, do not! Sandy has returned to the nest with Luna. SK Hideaways has it on video: https://youtu.be/AMnXeJ1UCQw?

It is unclear to me at this time whether petitioners have managed to move the fireworks to a location farther from the nest. It is equally unclear to me what is happening with donations towards the purchase of the land known as MoonCamp. Perhaps I misunderstood, but I thought that if more than 3 million were raised, there were provisions for some type of loan. Do you know? They are well short of the 10 million required at this time with 29 days left.

At the Achieva Osprey platforn, Little finally was home when a fish came in and how wonderful is that!

Sadly, the second hatchling at the Cape Henlopen osprey nest of Miles and Hennie has died from the heat.

There are to be more heat domes across the US and Canada this weekend and sadly, without a massive amount of fish and shade, we could lose more osplets.

One of those that is in dire straits is the oldest at the Osoyoos nest, who appears to be losing energy every second from the heat, little or no shade from an adult, and no fish.

I am equally concerned about Cowlitz PUD where there is heat, little food that I can see, and chicks so thin, especially the second one.

In Idaho, the two osplets, fully feathered, at the Coeur d’ Alene nest are doing very well.

Early fish delivery and lots of heat at Great Bay.

Life continues to be good at Clark PUD.

Nice crops at Dunrovin,

Some cute moments with two of Big Red and Arthur’s fledglings caught by Karel and BOGette: https://youtu.be/PNHokHkgwks?

Iris and Clark’s baby is getting some nice pin feathers!

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Thursday 2nd July 2026

Today was a slow fish day, only four deliveries, three by Louis and one by Garry. The weather didn’t help, the wind made the loch waters choppy and although both males have fished successfully in poor weather, perhaps they couldn’t find many sheltered spots today. Earlier the chicks had a quick pop at each other before settling down then they joined Dorcha in calling enthusiastically when they saw Louis approaching with the second fish. They are looking and sounding more like juveniles as they move towards fledging. The chicks are around a month old, hatched on 1st and 3rd June respectively, and fledging generally takes place around 50 – 57 days old therefore our chicks are about 3 weeks away from their first flight. Dorcha was caught by the wind and did an involuntary helicopter, a skill we can expect to see them perform before they actually fledge. The chicks were cheeping away as the day wound down, and were rewarded when Louis arrived with a very late night supper, so fresh it almost flapped off the nest. Louis’ three fish take the Nest Two tally to two hundred and seventeen, and Garry’s single takes the Nest One tally to one hundred and forty six. More rain and wind expected with an overnight low of 11°C, continuing tomorrow with  sunny spells and a high of 17°C.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/bsf3c1C1IGs N2 Dorcha does an involuntary helicopter in a gust of wind 07.15.25

https://youtu.be/lo9-zN-RdXA N2 Foolish chick attacks the other and pays the price 10.13.41

https://youtu.be/NqxP3UbL-NU N2 Despite the choppy water Louis brings a fish 10.25.49

https://youtu.be/dxmhoN_xjK8 N1 Aurora nearly takes a stick as she leaves with her fish 14.06.23

https://youtu.be/kOf7PbynS1U N2 Chicks join in fish-calling as Louis approaches with fish two 18.02.37

https://youtu.be/qPeU_M1h-fw N2 Late night supper is so fresh it nearly flaps overboard 22.59.10 

 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 so much for being with us today. Take care. See you tomorrow with a special treat.

Thank you to all the contributors today – Geemeff for their summary on Loch Arkaig plus videos, Karel and BOGette for chasing the Ps and their video, for all who posted on FB and provided information, and for the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to watch these incredible challenged avian families.

What do the old White Oaks have to do with the environment? Thursday in Bird World

3 July 2026

Good Afternoon Everyone,

I hope that you had a lovely Thursday. Jaine and Tammy came and picked up Don for an outing while Toby and I put on his Advantage Multi treatment (ticks andand went for a walk.

While there is much doom and gloom in the world to make us drop into a pit of despair, we cannot allow ourselves to succumb to that way of thinking. As I look out at the garden with Dyson’s family and the Blue Jays at the feeders, I see life. It has rained and the Robins and Jays have been pulling worms out of everyone’s lawn along with the Starlings and their excellent beaks for digging. The peonies I planted last year bloomed and the sheer amount of rain has turnede my garden into the forest I always dreamed it would be. There are baby birds everywhere – six Blue Jays and I could not possibly tell you how many sparrows. I wake up and feel lucky to have each of them a part o my life – they enrich our days just as The Girls and Toby do.

Which reminds me! Baby Hope is three years old today. We will have a small party for our shy girl later today.

My days on this planet are shorter than they were longer when, as a teenager, I dreamed of getting my driver’s license. My hope now is on the young people to fix the mess that we have created on this planet. One of those brilliant stars rising in the field of environmental/wildlife research is Wes Melker, a student from Gainesville, Florida, and grandson of one of our Bird World readers, Dr Richard Melker.

Don’t let the title, ‘American Icons: A Toast to White Oaks, ‘ fool you. The articles that Wes writes while he is an Intern at the Smithsonian Institution will inevitably teach you something that you did not know, and they all connect back to the need to protect our beautiful resources. Richard sent me a copy of the article and graciously asked Wes if I could include it for you to read. The answer was yes! So, enjoy the work of a young man whose name you need to remember.

You should be able to print using the link below.

Shorelines » Blog Archive American Icons: A Toast to White Oaks – ShorelinesDownload

The White Oak Initiative says: “Hope for the Future”. While there are plenty of mature white oaks in our forests today, the regeneration issue must be addressed immediately as oaks take decades to grow to maturity. We have a limited window to be proactive, but it can be done. By working together, we can reverse the decline of American white oak and ensure a sustainable future for white oak-dominated forests for generations to come.”

I like to think of the challenge faced by the White Oaks as similar to that of the keystone species of fish that our Ospreys depend on – along with other fish and aquatic creatures in the NE USA. Of course, I am talking about Menhaden. Tomorrow, I will take a look at the chicks that were ringed in the UK on Thursday along with a great documentary for you to enjoy over the 4th of July weekend.

Take care everyone. See you soon.

Thank you to Wes and Richard Melker and the Smithsonian Institution for allowing me to include Wes’s article in my blog. I also want to thank OpenVerse for the cover image of the Great White Oak.

You might want to check out the Smithsonian Institution and what they are doing to help the environment – maybe register as a member or purchase their magazine to help fund projects and internships such as Wes’s.